Episode Summary:
Photographers talk a lot about spotting red flags in clients, but what about when photographers need to say no? In this episode, Vanessa Joy dives into the real, unspoken truth about turning down clients. From personality clashes to budget concerns and even those infamous "crazy eyes," learn how to spot warning signs before they become business nightmares. This episode isn't just about protecting your art—it’s about protecting your peace of mind and making sure your business thrives with the right clientele.

What You’ll Learn:

• Why some wedding clients can be a bigger red flag than a bad photographer.

• The real reason photographers need to turn down certain clients.

• The types of clients that can lead to unrealistic expectations and chargeback nightmares.

• How to gracefully say no to a client without burning bridges.

• Why it’s okay to protect your mental health as a creative.

Show Notes:

• [0:00] Not all bookings are good bookings—learn to spot the red flags early.

• [06:41] "Crazy eyes" might sound funny, but they’re often an indicator of trouble ahead.

• [07:14] Clients who stretch their budgets too far often have unrealistic expectations.

• [10:12] A personality clash can make a wedding day miserable for both parties.

• [11:23] Priorities matter: If a couple is focused on the wedding over the marriage, it may not be a good fit.

Resources & Links:

• Follow Vanessa Joy on Instagram

• Join the Photo Insiders community for exclusive content and education, and Shadow A Pro for more in-depth behind the scenes of real weddings and engagements.

• Subscribe to The Raw Files for more industry insights

Connect with Us:

• Website: vanessajoy.com

• YouTube: Vanessa Joy

Rate & Review:
If you loved this episode, let us know! Leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify and share it with a fellow photographer. Let’s keep the industry strong together!