Photography Testimonials: How to Ask Without Feeling Awkward

Photography testimonials are one of the most powerful tools you can have as a photographer. They build trust, offer social proof, and help potential clients envision their own experience with you before they ever step in front of your camera. A heartfelt testimonial can speak louder than any marketing copy because it’s coming directly from the people who’ve lived the experience, your happy clients. These personal stories help new clients feel reassured that they’re making the right choice and give them a glimpse into what it’s like to work with you.

But let’s be honest, asking for those testimonials can sometimes feel a little… awkward. You might wonder: Am I being too forward? Will they feel obligated? What if they say no? It’s completely normal to feel a bit uneasy when approaching clients for feedback. The good news? It doesn’t have to feel that way. There are simple, natural ways to ask for photography testimonials that leave both you and your clients feeling good about the exchange.

Hi, I’m Natasha, the photographer behind NPS Photography. After photographing hundreds of families across the D.C. area, I’ve learned a few things about gathering photography testimonials in a way that feels natural, easy, and even enjoyable for both you and your clients. Over the years, I’ve found that most clients are not only happy to share their experience, they’re often excited to do so when asked the right way.

And if you have questions or want to check in, I’m always just a message away. Contact me anytime. I’d love to help.

Why Photography Testimonials Matter More Than Ever

We live in a world overflowing with choices. When potential clients are searching for a photographer, they’re often looking for more than just pretty pictures, they want reassurance that they’ll feel comfortable, cared for, and understood. This is where photography testimonials shine.

Testimonials offer authentic insights into what it’s really like to work with you. They reflect the emotions, experiences, and special moments your clients have enjoyed. In fact, many of my new clients mention that reading other families’ photography testimonials helped them feel confident in booking a session.

The Best Time to Ask for a Testimonial

Timing is everything when it comes to gathering photography testimonials. You want to catch your clients when they’re still riding that happy post session high. Here are a few ideal moments:

• Right after delivering their gallery
• After they’ve received their prints or albums
• When they share their photos on social media and tag you

By reaching out during these joyful milestones, you’re more likely to receive heartfelt and enthusiastic photography testimonials.

What to Say (And What Not to Say)

When asking for photography testimonials, keep your request simple, genuine, and client focused. You might say something like:

“I’m so happy you love your photos! It would mean so much to me if you’d be willing to share a few words about your experience. Your feedback helps other families feel confident in booking their own session.”

What not to say? Avoid anything that sounds overly scripted or desperate. Keep it natural and centered on their positive experience, not on your need for marketing.

Make It Easy for Them to Share

One of the keys to collecting great photography testimonials is removing as much friction as possible. Here are a few ways to make it easy:

• Provide a direct link to your Google Business profile, Facebook page, or testimonial form.
• Give them a few guiding questions, such as:
  1. What did you love most about your session?
  2. How did you feel during the session?
  3. What would you tell a friend who’s considering booking a session?
• Allow them to respond via email if that’s easier for them.

The more effortless you make the process, the more likely you are to receive thoughtful, detailed photography testimonials.

How to Use Photography Testimonials Strategically

Once you have these beautiful words from your clients, put them to work! Here are some effective ways to use photography testimonials in your business:

• Website: Create a dedicated testimonials page or sprinkle them throughout your homepage, session info pages, and contact page.
• Social Media: Share quotes alongside sneak peeks or behind-the-scenes photos.
• Email Marketing: Include testimonials in your welcome emails, inquiry responses, or seasonal promotions. Ready to start building beautiful emails? Use my link to save 50% off your Flodesk subscription!
• Print Materials: Use them in brochures or welcome guides for potential clients.

When potential clients see these real experiences, it helps them visualize their own session and builds trust before you even meet.

My Favorite Tools for Collecting Testimonials

As a busy photographer, having the right tools makes all the difference when gathering photography testimonials. Here are a few I love:

• Google Business Profile: Great for boosting your SEO and making testimonials visible to potential clients.
• Dubsado: If you use a CRM like Dubsado, you can automate testimonial requests as part of your workflow. Want to give Dubsado a try? Use my link to save 20% off your subscription!
• Social Media Screenshots: When clients post kind words about you, take a screenshot (with permission) and save it for future use.
• Canva: Design beautiful graphics to showcase testimonials on your website or Instagram.

Photography Testimonials & Your Growing Business

If you’re a photographer who wants to build a business rooted in genuine client connections, collecting photography testimonials is a game changer. But it’s just one piece of the puzzle.

In my mentoring program, I teach photographers how to build thriving, client centered businesses without the overwhelm. We cover everything from client experience and pricing to workflow systems (like collecting photography testimonials with ease!). If you’re ready to grow your photography business with confidence, learn more about my mentoring program here.

Final Thoughts on Photography Testimonials

At the end of the day, photography testimonials aren’t just marketing tools, they’re stories. Stories of families who trusted you to capture their most precious moments. Stories that give future clients a glimpse into the experience you provide.

By asking with care, making it easy, and using testimonials strategically, you can grow a library of client love that speaks volumes about your work. And remember, every glowing testimonial is not just a pat on the back, it’s a beacon for the next family searching for a photographer they can trust.

If you have any questions or want to learn more about how to grow your photography business (including collecting photography testimonials without feeling awkward), I’m always here to help. Contact me anytime, explore my mentoring program to take your business to the next level or follow me on Instagram for tips, behind-the-scenes peeks, and real stories from D.C. families I’ve had the honor to photograph!

Let’s work together to create the thriving business you’ve been dreaming of!