Being an entrepreneur and a creative has its own set of challenges. One of those challenges is making sure you have enough paying clients to not only keep yourself in business but being able to pay your own bills. Another challenge is how to address people when they ask, “Why are you so expensive?” To be honest, that’s a rather rude question. Basically, what these people are saying is, “I don’t think what you do/sell is worth what you’re charging”. I have even had one person tell me that I should lower my prices so that more people (including herself) could afford my work.
Fortunately, I don’t get this question often but it has happened. I’ve learned to just take it in stride. Oftentimes, expensive is a euphemism for “I can’t afford that”. If you are buying a luxury item it’s supposed to be expensive. I think everyone deserves luxury but it won’t come cheap. No one complains about how much a Porsche costs. They decide whether they can afford one or not and if not, they don’t get it. The only things I actually consider expensive are commodities and groceries with jacked-up prices that everyone needs. The good thing is that there are various creatives at different price points, so there is something for everybody.
What I have learned is that people purchase what they value. I, for one, don’t mind paying extra if the customer service is excellent. I’m all about the experience, as well as the quality of the good or service. Considering all of the time and money I have put into developing my craft, I am charging what I believe my services and products are worth. I truly appreciate those who enjoy and value my work. It means so much to me when someone commissions me to create beautiful photographs of their children. Delivering the final product to my clients is one of my favorite things to do! I just love dazzling my clients!
So, what’s important to you? When you see something that you really want, how do you assess whether or not you’re going to get it? Is price a major factor for you? If price is a major factor, I think that maybe you really don’t want it as much as you think you do and that’s okay. I know if there is something that I want or need, the price is only a temporary deterrent. I will find a way to get it but again, I really have to want it. If you are interested in my photography, I would love to talk to you. I want to find out what you’re looking for and perhaps, what is keeping you from hiring me? Creating beautiful art is my jam! Let me do that for you or at least let me talk to you about it.
“What one generation sees as a luxury, the next sees as a necessity.” ~Anthony Crosland.
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