Apologies if this isn’t allowed, it’s more of a rant. Just wondering how everyone deals with the whole family asking for free photos thing.

For context, I’m a professional fashion/commercial photographer so family portraits aren’t going to help my portfolio or anything. My schedule is incredibly busy year round, even more so during the holidays, and I’m also a mother of two young kids. So if I’m not in parent mode, I’m working- often until midnight, and then I’m awake around 5:30 with the kids. I know it sounds like I’m complaining and… well, I kind of am, but want to give an accurate picture of how little time I have available to be doing free photos.

So every year, my in-laws want a family session. Not just a quick snap but like a full session. And every year I do it because they’re my in-laws and I don’t want them to think badly of me. The one time I hinted at being annoyed at this yearly request they were flabbergasted, saying “I thought you liked photography? It doesn’t take much time, does it?” This year I feel like I might snap. I’ve been racing to meet deadlines for huge clients that I’ve worked hard to get and I keep getting sidetracked with all of these family shoots (it is also happening with friends, other relatives). It’s not just the shoot- it’s deciding a location, responding to lengthy texts about what to wear, doing the editing- you guys know. It’s never “just a few pics”.

How can I deal with this?! Do I need to just suck it up and be a nicer person? I’m just burnt out af. Help.

  • DeckyrooB
    link
    fedilink
    English
    arrow-up
    1
    ·
    1 year ago

    You cannot just say an outright NO, since they’re still family, you have to offer explanation. Here are some options. Adjust accordingly to your situation.

    “I’m sorry I cannot do it this time, you know, I’m really drained and burnt out lately.”

    “Most I can do is a quick snap of everyone together, something that doesn’t feel like work this time.”

    “I’d love to, but my dates are fully booked, the other free dates are when I spend time to edit. Would you prefer a schedule 3 months from now?”

    “I’m sorry I cannot do our lovely portraits this time, would you like me to recommend to you a friend who can do it? I’m helping out my colleague by giving him some extra projects, but please prepare a nice talent fee also.”

    These will take some practice to say, but if you truly value your time and energy, these will come out genuine.