Check out the Newborn Photography Business Blueprint

Let’s face it—keeping customers happy isn’t rocket science, but it does require some common sense. Unfortunately, we’ve all seen (or made!) these mistakes. Let’s break down the worst offenders and why they send customers running for the hills.

1. Ignoring Inquiries – AKA “Ghosting Potential Clients”

Picture this: a mum is scrolling through her phone at 2 a.m., desperately searching for a photographer who can capture her baby’s chubby cheeks before they disappear forever. She emails you in a frenzy of sleep-deprived hope... and hears nothing. Crickets. Days pass. By then, she’s moved on to someone else.

👎 Why it’s bad:

Ignoring inquiries screams, "I don’t care about your business," and nothing says “bye-bye referrals” faster. Even if you're overwhelmed, clients expect acknowledgment—stat.

✅ Fix it:

Automate! Set up an auto-response email or social media message that confirms receipt and sets expectations for when you’ll follow up. For instance:

"Hi there, thanks so much for reaching out! I’m so excited to chat about your upcoming session. You’ll hear back from me within 24 hours—hang tight!"

In my Newborn Photography Business Blueprint, I share templates you can plug and play to streamline this process and never leave a client hanging again.

2. Not Setting Clear Expectations – AKA “Over-Promise, Under-Deliver”

Ah, the classic trap. You’re trying to win a client over, so you say yes to everything:

"Yes, I’ll have your images ready in two days!"

"Yes, I’ll make your living room look like a Vogue cover!"

"Yes, I’ll Photoshop your toddler into smiling angelically, even though he cried the entire session!"

👎 Why it’s bad:

When you over-promise and can’t deliver, clients feel let down—even if what you do provide is amazing. Unmet expectations leave a sour taste.

✅ Fix it:

Be honest about what’s achievable upfront. Instead of making big promises, frame your process positively:

"Editing takes about two weeks because I like to perfect every image for you. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!"

When expectations are realistic, clients are thrilled when you go above and beyond.

3. Being Too Pushy With Upsells – AKA “Used Car Salesman Vibes”

We’ve all been there. You just had a wonderful session, your client is on cloud nine, and then... bam! You hit them with a barrage of upsells they weren’t prepared for:

“Do you want to add this $3,000 canvas package? How about a keepsake box? Oh, and there’s a digital download fee!”

👎 Why it’s bad:

High-pressure sales tactics turn a beautiful experience into a transaction. It can leave clients feeling icky and less likely to come back.

✅ Fix it:

Upsell gently. Frame it as an opportunity, not an obligation:

"If you’re interested, I have a gorgeous canvas option that would look amazing in your home. No pressure—let me know if you’d like to see some samples."

In my Blueprint, I teach strategies for offering upgrades in a way that feels natural and gets clients excited, not overwhelmed.

4. Delivering Low-Quality Experiences – AKA “Letting the Little Things Slide”

From a clunky booking system to poorly edited photos, every touchpoint in your process matters. That one typo in your email? Clients notice. The awkward silence during a session? They feel it. Your attention to detail (or lack thereof) can make or break the experience.

👎 Why it’s bad:

Clients want to feel cared for every step of the way. If you seem disorganized or sloppy, it reflects poorly on your professionalism.

✅ Fix it:

Streamline your workflow. Invest in tools to keep your bookings, invoices, and communication flawless. And during sessions, make the experience FUN! Crack a joke, play with the kids, and make it unforgettable. The better they feel, the better the photos—and the bigger your referral base.

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