How Do I Handle When a Client Doesn’t Like Their Photos?

Jul 25

It’s the email no photographer wants to get:
“Hey, I’m just not in love with these.”

You poured hours into shooting, editing, and delivering with care—and now you’re staring at a message that threatens to undo all your confidence. But how you respond in this moment says everything about your professionalism, your process, and your long game.

Here’s how to handle it with grace without compromising your value.

1. Don’t React Immediately

Take a breath. Don’t fire back a defensive email or start spiraling. Give yourself a moment (or a few hours) to cool off and read their message clearly. Sometimes what feels like a rejection is really a misunderstanding or a need for clarity.

2. Revisit the Contract and Expectations

Before you respond, review what was agreed on.

Did you promise a certain number of edits or revisions?
Was there a mood board or creative direction discussed beforehand?
Did they approve the outfit, location, or style?

Being anchored in what was agreed on will help you lead the conversation—not just emotionally respond to it.

3. Ask Clarifying Questions

Instead of rushing to fix it, get specific. Ask:

What didn’t land for you?
Are there particular images that stood out (good or bad)?
Was there something you were hoping to see that’s missing?

This opens up room for productive feedback while helping them feel heard.

4. Decide if It’s a Fix or a Misalignment

Sometimes a few tweaks can turn things around—adjusting warmth, cropping differently, or pulling from alternate selects. Other times, the client’s expectations may have never aligned with your style or process to begin with.

If it’s the latter, be honest and kind. You can stand firm without being combative.

5. Educate Gently (When Needed)

Non-photographers often don’t know how much goes into lighting, skin tones, or shooting in unpredictable environments. If part of the issue is a lack of understanding, take the opportunity to briefly explain your choices without sounding condescending.

6. Offer a Solution (If It’s Reasonable)

If you're open to retouching one or two images—or offering a short revision round—make it clear:

What you’re willing to do
How long it will take
Whether it’s included or an additional charge

Clarity builds trust. Vagueness breeds frustration.

7. Don’t Let It Define You

Even the best photographers get critique.
This doesn’t mean you’re not talented. It just means you’re in business—and real business involves real people, not all of whom will be thrilled every time.

Take what’s helpful. Leave what’s emotional. Keep growing.