Tips for Working with Clients on VSCO Hub as a Photographer

With a fully optimized VSCO profile and a curated, discoverable portfolio that’s perfect for attracting new clients, let’s talk about what happens when we reach out to you and share a new opportunity to connect with a brand through VSCO Hub.

If you haven’t read the previous guides in this VSCO Hub series, consider going back to check them out:

Once you’ve prepared your profile and photography portfolio for clients, it will be important to know what to expect when a brand wants to connect. You’ll need to know where to see new messages and notifications, how to kick off a professional conversation, and iron out details like deliverables and contracts.

How Brands Reach Out on VSCO Hub

On VSCO Hub, brands have the option to use a ‘request to connect’ button. When they do, VSCO gathers details about their project and sends you an email introducing the two of you. This is why having an accurate email address on your profile is crucial!

If you miss the email, don’t worry – you’ll also receive a notification in the VSCO app. Make sure you have push notifications enabled by going into your VSCO app settings and activating them in both the app and your device’s system settings.

Communicating with Brands

When a business contacts you, it’s essential to remember that you’re interacting with professionals, and the expectations might differ from what you’re used to with other types of collaborations.

Respond promptly – You should reply within 24 hours. Brands are often working on tight deadlines, so timely communication is key.
Show more of your work – They may ask to see additional examples of work relevant to their project. VSCO Galleries allow you to share a private gallery easily.
Request a creative brief – If they haven’t provided one already, ask for a creative brief. This document outlines the project’s goals and helps you understand the brand’s vision for the shoot, ensuring that everyone is on the same page.

Gathering Key Information

While answering the brand’s questions, it’s also important to collect the details you’ll need to provide an accurate quote and ensure you can meet their expectations. Here are some questions to consider:

What is the concept or vision for the images? Do they have a creative brief or mood board you can reference?
What are the deliverables? Do they need a specific number of images, a certain resolution, or additional assets like behind-the-scenes video?
What usage rights are required? Understand how the photos will be used and what usage rights they’ll need.
What is the budget for the project?
What’s the deadline? Clarify the timeline to ensure you can meet it.
What equipment is required? Do you need to provide strobes, a tethered laptop, tripod, or other gear? Having the right equipment can boost their confidence in hiring you.
Will models be needed? Who is responsible for securing and paying for them?
Where will the shoot take place? Will you need to arrange the location? Are any permits required?

Bidding and Contracts

When it comes to bidding for the project, there’s a lot to consider. VSCO provides a pricing guide that can help you estimate rates based on factors like location, experience, and the type of photography.

This guide covers different pricing models and typical price ranges for various types of photography, making it a useful resource to consult. Once you and the brand have agreed on a price, it’s essential to get everything in writing.

While the brand may provide a contract, it’s a good idea to be prepared with your own contract if needed. We also have a great guide to photo contracts that you should check out.

You’ll also want to discuss payment terms – some businesses may operate on net 30 terms, meaning you’ll be paid within 30 days of submitting your invoice. Don’t forget about other necessary documents, like model releases or location photo releases. Some shoots may also require proof of liability insurance.

Professionalism in Every Step

After all the details are set, make sure your professionalism shines through every step of the process. This starts with being organized before the shoot and extends to how you conduct yourself during and after. Here are some tips: 

Confirm details – Before the scheduled shoot, check in with the brand to make sure everything is on track.
Be punctual – Plan to arrive early to the shoot and arrange your transportation well in advance.
Stay collaborative and respectful – Make sure everyone feels comfortable and positive about the process.
Deliver on time – Be prompt in delivering proofs, galleries, and final assets as agreed in your contract.

A photographer who is reliable and easy to work with is far more likely to be hired again. Showing professionalism throughout an ongoing project is one of the best ways to land more opportunities down the road.

Resources for Photographers

In addition to everything covered here, check out these other guides and resources from our team that can help you prepare for working with clients:

Get Noticed on VSCO Hub

You now have everything you need to get started on VSCO Hub. Keep your profile updated, respond promptly to any emails or messages, and deliver a positive experience that will keep clients coming your way.

Good luck working with brands on VSCO Hub, and thanks for letting us guide you through the process – you can make it!