As a new photographer looking to break into brand photography, one of the best ways to build a strong portfolio is by collaborating with small business owners who’ve never had a brand shoot before. These partnerships can be mutually beneficial: you gain experience and content for your portfolio, and the business owner gets high-quality images to elevate their brand. However, many photographers make critical mistakes in these collaborations that can harm their reputation and result in wasted time.
Here’s how to avoid common pitfalls and set yourself up for success when working with small business owners.
5 Mistakes New Brand Photographers Make When Collaborating with Business Owners
1. Calling It a “Free” Shoot Instead of a Complementary Service
Words matter. When you label a shoot as “free,” it often implies it has no value. Instead, call it a “complementary” shoot and attach a dollar value to the service.
For example:
“This is a complimentary brand shoot valued at $X.”
By assigning a value, you establish the worth of your work and ensure the business owner appreciates the opportunity.
2. Failing to Set Clear Expectations
Communication is key. Many photographers fail to clearly outline:
- What the client will receive: Specify the number of photos, how they’ll be delivered, and any extras like licensing terms.
- What the photographer will get in return: Clearly state that you’ll be using the images for your portfolio and promotional purposes.
When expectations aren’t outlined, business owners may assume they’re getting all the photos, including raw files, which can lead to disappointment and misunderstandings.
3. Not Addressing Raw File Requests
It’s not common for clients to ask for raw files, but as a photographer, it’s important to politely decline this request if someone requests this. Raw files represent unfinished work, and editing is what allows you to add your unique editing style and maintain consistency in your portfolio.
Instead, explain that:
“The final images you receive will be professionally edited to reflect my creative style and align with your brand. Raw files are not provided as they don’t represent the final quality of my work.”
4. Skipping the Contract
A contract isn’t just a formality—it’s a necessity. Without one, you’re at risk of:
- Clients backing out after the shoot – meaning they decide they don’t want you to use their photos that YOU shot.
- Business owners refusing to let you use the images in your portfolio.
- Misaligned expectations on deliverables and timelines.
Your contract should outline:
- The scope of the shoot.
- Ownership and usage rights.
- The number of final images delivered.
- The timeline for editing and delivery.
Having a signed agreement protects both parties and ensures you’re on the same page from the start. And remember to be flexible and communicate the terms that you both agree upon.
5. Underestimating the Power of Communication
A lack of communication can lead to the business owner feeling in control, leaving you with no leverage to use the photos you’ve worked hard to plan and create. Make sure to:
- Discuss timelines: Let the client know when they can expect their images.
- Outline the process: Walk them through what happens before, during, and after the shoot.
- Reinforce boundaries: Be clear about what’s included and what’s not.
When you take charge and communicate upfront, you establish yourself as a professional and create a smoother experience for both you and the client.
Bonus: Free Email Template for Portfolio Building
To help you kickstart your collaborations with small business owners, I’ve created a free email template you can use when reaching out. This template helps you communicate:
- The value of your service.
- What the business owner can expect.
- Key terms to ensure a professional collaboration.
You can customize the email to fit your unique style and the details of each partnership.
