Clients…Where the heck ARE THEY??

Finding clients can be difficult as a retoucher, even if you have the creativity and expertise to make photographs seem fantastic (trust me, I know!). To generate a consistent flow of work and forge a successful career as a retoucher, it is critical to understand where to locate clients. In this article, we’ll go over some of the avenues for finding clients if you’re a retoucher as well as how to use them to expand your business.

Networking 

 To find clients as a retoucher, networking is essential. Attend photography exhibits, trade shows, and networking events if possible! A connection should be made by introducing yourself to potential customers. To increase your reach, you may also join photography and editing groups on social networking sites like Facebook and LinkedIn. Don’t disregard this, LinkedIn is particularly helpful for connecting with professionals in the sector. It’s crucial to concentrate on developing connections rather than pitching your services when networking. Establish relationships and build trust, and the projects will come. Individuals choose to work with familiar and affable individuals.

Freelance Websites

You may find clients as a retoucher on freelance marketplaces like Upwork, Freelancer, and Fiverr. These websites enable clients to post project specifications and request quotations from independent contractors. You can submit bids for these projects and highlight your qualifications to get hired. It’s crucial to have a solid portfolio and profile that highlights your work and experience if you want to succeed on these sites. Make sure to swiftly address client questions and uphold transparent communication throughout the process. You can establish a solid reputation and obtain repeat business by doing high-quality work on schedule and within your allocated budget.

Referrals

Referrals are one of the best ways to find new clients as a retoucher. Make sure to provide exceptional service to your current clients, and they will be more likely to refer you to their network. Encourage your satisfied clients to leave reviews on your website or social media pages to help build your credibility.

You can also reach out to photographers and industry professionals in your network and ask them to refer you to their clients. Make sure to reciprocate the favour and refer clients to them, if you can. By building strong relationships and providing excellent service, you can establish a reliable referral network that can help you grow your business.

Direct Marketing

Direct marketing can be an effective way to find new clients as a retoucher. Create a list of potential clients, including photographers, and agencies, and reach out to them with a personalised message. Introduce yourself, showcase your work, and explain how your services can benefit their business.

You can also send out email newsletters or postcards to potential clients to keep them updated on your services and recent work. Make sure to follow up with any interested clients and schedule a meeting or call to discuss their needs further.

Social Media

Social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook can be a great way to showcase your work and find new clients as a retoucher. Share your work regularly, engage with your followers, and use relevant hashtags to expand your reach.

You can also connect with photographers, on social media and build relationships with them. Comment on their posts, share their work, and engage with their content. By establishing a rapport, you can increase your chances of being hired for retouching work.

Online Portfolios

Having a strong online portfolio is essential for finding clients as a retoucher. Create a website or use platforms like Behance, Adobe Portfolio, or Squarespace to showcase your work and provide information about your services.

Make sure to curate your portfolio and only showcase your best work. Include a variety of images that showcase your retouching skills and demonstrate your versatility. You can also include client testimonials to build credibility and demonstrate your expertise.

As a retoucher myself I have BEEN through it looking for good ways to source clients! I hope you find this list helpful to take you from available and broke to busy and booked!