Navigating Tricky Client Requests for Re-Shoots

Let’s talk about a not-so-fun part of real estate photography: when your client requests for a re-shoot. Ugh, right?

It’s like when you finally settle in on the couch after cleaning the whole house, and someone walks in with muddy shoes. But hey, it happens! Maybe they’ve got new furniture they want in the shots, or they didn’t realize their dog was photobombing half the pictures (cute, but probably not what they’re going for).

Whatever the reason, these requests can throw a wrench in your schedule if you’re not ready for them. But before you start spiraling about packing up your gear again, take a deep breath. This isn’t uncharted territory, and it’s totally something you can handle.

Understanding Client Expectations

Let’s get real—clients sometimes have a picture in their head of what their property should look like, and it might be… ambitious.

Like, “My backyard should feel like the cover of a luxury magazine” ambitious. That’s where understanding their expectations comes in. You need to have a good old-fashioned chat with them before you even pick up your camera. What vibe are they going for? Are they thinking warm and homey, or sleek and modern? Do they want every room showcased, or just the ones that scream, “Look at me!”?

Sometimes clients might not even know what they want until they see what they don’t want. That’s why it’s key to ask questions and get as specific as possible. Trust me, it’ll save you both a lot of time and prevent you from playing psychic later. It’s also a good idea to gently remind them that real estate photography is about making the space look its best, not creating a version of it that only exists in the virtual world. Set those expectations early, and you’re golden—or at least less likely to get an “I thought it’d look different” text a week later.

Evaluating the Need for a Re-Shoot

So your client’s asking for a re-shoot—time to figure out if it’s really necessary or if we can avoid hauling all your gear out again.

Start by getting the details. Did they suddenly notice Uncle Bob’s reflection in the bathroom mirror, or was the lighting just off that day? Maybe they’ve decided they want the living room styled differently, or they realized the pool shot is missing their prized inflatable flamingo. Whatever it is, you’ve got to dig into the specifics.

Once you know the reason, think about whether it’s something that can be fixed without starting from scratch. Sometimes a little editing magic can do the trick, like brightening up a cloudy shot or tweaking colors. But if it’s something bigger—like they knocked down a wall after your shoot—it’s probably time to plan for round two. Just make sure it’s a legit issue and not just a case of them having second thoughts after showing the photos to their neighbors for a critique. That’s a whole other conversation.

Negotiating a Solution

The client’s asking for changes, and you’re trying to avoid packing up your gear just yet—totally fair.

Start by exploring alternatives. Maybe a little Photoshop magic can fix what’s bothering them. A crooked lampshade? Easy. A cloudy sky? Fixable. But if it’s something bigger, like a missing angle or an entirely new setup, that’s when you need to have the “Let’s talk options” chat.

When a re-shoot is the only way forward, don’t just say, “Sure, let’s do it!” without setting some boundaries. Discuss the details—what exactly needs to be different this time, and how can you both avoid the same issues later? It’s also a great time to talk about timelines and costs. Yes, costs!

Your time and effort are valuable, so don’t be shy about bringing up additional fees if the request goes beyond the original agreement. as Mark Samuel from IMPAQ Corporation suggests having proactive recovery plans can steer off-track situations back on course. Keep things professional, but friendly—think collaborative, not confrontational.

Planning and Executing the Re-Shoot

You’ve agreed to the re-shoot—now it’s time to get everything lined up like a pro.

First things first, double-check all the details with your client. What exactly do they want this time? Make a list (mental or on paper—no judgment) to keep everything on track. Next, scope out the property again before the shoot. Things might’ve changed since your last visit—maybe they rearranged the furniture or finally got rid of that ancient recliner that’s seen better days.

When the big day rolls around, make sure your gear is ready to roll and you’ve got backup equipment—because, let’s face it, technology loves to misbehave when you least expect it. If you’re working with new conditions, like different lighting or weather, be ready to adapt. Don’t forget to bring your A-game energy, too; even if it’s round two, you want the photos to look fresh and on point.

By staying organized and keeping your cool, you’ll breeze through the re-shoot like the seasoned pro you are.

Learning from the Experience

So, you survived the re-shoot—congrats!

Now’s the time to take a step back and ask yourself, “What could I do differently next time?” Maybe it’s as simple as being more detailed in your pre-shoot chats or triple-checking the space for any random items that might sneak into the frame (looking at you, half-empty water bottle on the counter). It’s not about beating yourself up; it’s about fine-tuning your process so you can avoid a repeat scenario.

Also, keep tabs on what worked well during the re-shoot. Did you try a new angle or lighting setup that the client loved? Add that trick to your toolbox for the future. And hey, if your client was extra picky, it might be worth updating your contract to include re-shoot policies—nothing wrong with a little CYA, right?

At the end of the day, every project teaches you something, even the ones that make you want to swear off your camera for a week. Take the lesson, leave the stress, and keep crushing it out there!

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