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In-Person Sales vs All-Inclusive Photography: What’s the Difference?

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Photography is more than just capturing a moment; it’s about creating a lasting memory that speaks to the viewer and tells a story. For many photographers, one of the biggest decisions in running their business is how to structure their sales process, particularly when it comes to selling their photography packages. Two common models are In-Person Sales (IPS) photography packages and all-inclusive packages. Both approaches have their advantages and disadvantages. Deciding which one is best for you as a client (or even as a photographer) depends on several factors, including your goals, budget, and how much personalization you desire.

In this blog post, I am breaking down both the IPS and all-inclusive photography packages, highlighting their key differences and helping you make an informed decision for your next photography session.

What is an In-Person Sales (IPS) Photography Package?

In-Person Sales (IPS) is a sales strategy where the photographer meets with clients after the photo shoot to preview their final images. The photographer helps their clients select the images they want to purchase. In most cases, this involves a face-to-face or virtual meeting where the client reviews their photos and decides which images they want printed, digitized, or turned into albums or other keepsakes. The session typically includes a slideshow of the edited images and an explanation of the different products available for purchase. IPS packages are what you typically find in portrait studios like the classic Olan Mills or studios like Lifetouch or Larson Brothers.

Key Features of IPS Photography Packages:

1. Initial Session Fee: Most IPS photographers charge an initial session fee that covers the photographer’s time during the shoot and the post-production editing process. However, this fee does not typically include any images, whether digital or printed.
2. A La Carte Purchases: After the session, clients purchase photos individually. They can select from a range of products, including prints, canvases, albums, and digital files. The client pays separately for each item they choose.
3. In-Person Consultation: The highlight of IPS is the sales meeting where the photographer and client go through the gallery of images together. The photographer helps the client select their favorite images, explains product options, and provides pricing for each.
4. Customization and Upselling: IPS allows for a high level of customization. Clients can choose various sizes, framing options, and other add-ons to create a personalized package. This approach also opens the door for the photographer to upsell additional products and services.
5. Emphasis on Physical Products: IPS packages tend to emphasize physical products such as fine art prints, photo albums, and framed images, making it an attractive option for clients who value having tangible memories of their session.

Pros of IPS:

• High Personalization: Clients can customize their package based on their preferences, ensuring that they only purchase the images they love in the formats they desire.
• Enhanced Client Experience: The in-person meeting offers a more hands-on, guided experience that helps clients make informed choices about their photos.
• Higher Revenue Potential for Photographers: By selling products individually, photographers can potentially earn more by upselling premium products like canvas prints or high-end albums.

Cons of IPS:

• Potential for Higher Costs: Since images and products are sold separately, clients can end up spending significantly more than they might with an all-inclusive package.
• Time-Consuming: The in-person meeting can take time for both the photographer and the client, adding an extra step in the process. This may be less convenient for clients with busy schedules.
• Unpredictable Final Costs: Because prices vary depending on the products chosen, clients may find it difficult to predict their total cost until after the sales meeting.

What is an All-Inclusive Photography Package?

An all-inclusive photography package provides clients with a set price that includes both the session fee and a predetermined number of digital images. Unlike IPS, where photos and products are purchased after the session, an all-inclusive package offers everything upfront, often in the form of a digital gallery that the client can download and print themselves or take to a professional printing service.

Key Features of All-Inclusive Photography Packages:

1. Upfront Pricing: With all-inclusive packages, clients know exactly how much they are going to pay before the session takes place. There are no hidden fees or unexpected costs after the session is complete.
2. Digital Delivery: Typically, clients receive a specific number of digital images as part of their package. These images are professionally edited and delivered via an online gallery or USB drive.
3. Full Usage Rights: One of the biggest draws of an all-inclusive package is that clients often receive full printing rights for their digital files, allowing them to print the images as many times and in as many formats as they wish.
4. No Upselling: Unlike IPS, where there is a focus on upselling prints and products, all-inclusive packages tend to be straightforward with no pressure to purchase anything additional.

Pros of All-Inclusive Packages:

• Predictable Pricing: Clients know the exact cost of their session and images upfront, making budgeting easier.
• Convenience: Since everything is delivered digitally, the process is often faster and more streamlined. There’s no need for an additional in-person sales meeting, saving time for both the client and the photographer.
• Great for Digital Lovers: For clients who primarily want digital files to share on social media or use in digital photo albums, all-inclusive packages are a convenient option.
• Lower Pressure: Without the need for an in-person consultation or upsell, clients may feel less pressure to make decisions on the spot.

Cons of All-Inclusive Packages:

• Limited Customization: All-inclusive packages typically come with a set number of images and predetermined deliverables. If a client wants a specific product (like a large canvas print or a premium photo album), they’ll need to order those separately, usually from a third-party printing service.
• No Professional Guidance: Clients who may not be familiar with print sizes or framing options will need to handle the printing process themselves or work with an external printer, as there is no in-person consultation to help with these decisions.
• Less Emphasis on Physical Products: Clients looking for professionally made photo albums, fine art prints, or framed wall art may find all-inclusive packages limiting, as most packages are designed with digital delivery in mind.

How to Choose Between IPS and All-Inclusive Packages?

When deciding between an IPS and all-inclusive photography package, consider the following factors:

1. Your Budget: If you have a strict budget and want to know the total cost upfront, an all-inclusive package may be the better option for you. IPS packages can sometimes lead to spending more, especially if you fall in love with a lot of images.
2. Your Desired End Product: Do you want physical prints, framed images, or a custom album? IPS packages are great for clients looking for high-quality, professionally printed products. On the other hand, if you prefer digital files that you can print or share yourself, an all-inclusive package is likely the better choice.
3. Time and Convenience: IPS requires an additional sales meeting and may take longer to complete the entire process. If you’re short on time or prefer a faster turnaround, the digital nature of all-inclusive packages is more convenient.
4. Customization and Personalization: If you value the opportunity to customize your final product with different sizes, formats, and finishes, IPS will give you more control. However, if you’re happy with a simple collection of digital images, an all-inclusive package will meet your needs without extra decisions.

Both In-Person Sales (IPS) and all-inclusive photography packages offer unique advantages, depending on what you are looking for in a photography session. IPS packages provide a personalized, hands-on experience with a focus on high-quality, physical products, while all-inclusive packages are ideal for clients who prioritize convenience, digital files, and upfront pricing. Understanding the differences between the two will help you choose the option that best fits your needs, style, and budget. Whether you’re commemorating a milestone or simply capturing life’s beautiful moments, selecting the right package can enhance the experience and ensure you get the photos you’ll cherish for years to come.

How to Choose the Right Photography Package

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