I am not the most expensive photographer in Columbus. My headshot photography prices have increased $5 since I started my business. There are other photography studios in town that cost a lot more, and are so behind in their workload, it takes them more than a week to respond to clients, and then weeks on top of that before clients are seen for their session. I know this because I get a lot of clients who thought they needed to pay a lot, but got tired of waiting for their photo session.
I admit when I am busy, headshot retoucing has taken 2 weeks to deliver to clients. I get a lot of emails claiming to be able to help me with my retouching workload, but it is my signature! For the price, I believe, I cannot be beat for the amount of care that goes into retouching your headshots.
I have one client who cannot afford to have me travel the US with her, but whenever she has photos taken of me, she asks the photographer if they are agreeable to having me retouch her photos.
Being one with imposter syndrome, it is incredibly nice to have repeat customers, as well as being known to be an expert; something with which you don’t trust anyone else. the secret? Listen to your clients. let them help you run your business. I know what people are looking for when they say they are looking for a flattering photograph. I understand when people don’t feel comfortable in front of a camera. I help relax people when they’re overthinking every aspect of their session.