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By Stephanie BoozerLaying the
“Be prepared” isn’t just a motto for the Boy Scouts. It’s a sure re way to
streamline your business so that sessions run smoothly for everyone involved.
Jaimy Ellis, M.Photog., proves this time and time again through her thriving high
school senior portrait business, which she runs out of her home just outside of
Iowa City, Iowa.
“I learned pretty quickly in my career that the more information and education
I can give my client ahead of time, the easier the process is for me,” says Ellis.
To that end, she’s created a system to ensure that when session day arrives,
clients know exactly what to expect, and Ellis knows exactly what to photograph.
In January, Ellis will present Imaging USA sessions on the senior portrait busi-
ness. Here, she offers tips based on her experience.TIP: FRONTLOAD YOUR WEBSITE.
Ellis’ well-thought-out website is clean and easy to navigate, with modern appeal that match-
es her shooting style and resonates with her demographic. An image-laden FAQ page covers
everything from wardrobe to pricing, addressing clients’ most basic questions before they
pick up the phone or send an email. “What should I wear?” walks them through out t selec-
tion, while “Can I get digital les of my pics?” helps clients understand her policy on digital
images. A behind-the-scenes section features images of Ellis at work, what she calls the
“mom view,” which helps clients visualize the session. The result is that by the time clients
contact her, they know they want her. It’s just a question of scheduling.
“My conversion rate is pretty high for booking,” says Ellis. “They’re not contacting me if
they’re not prepared to spend the price range.”
Part of what drove Ellis to put so much information online is that it makes the sales
process easier. She’s found the best way to make everyone comfortable and to set realistic
expectations for clients is to be as transparent as possible. That means giving clients an
understanding of costs. She even includes a blog post called “Tips to Save $$$” with sug-Jaimy Ellis preps seniors for a win