What do you tell a client if pictures don't turn out?

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QOTD from Angela: "What is the best way I write a "sorry your photos didn't turn out" letter? I screwed up the lighting on the photos (shot in jpeg) and did the best I could fixing them. The problem is the best I could do is pretty terrible. Any suggestions would be great!"

Nicole: Could she just reshoot the session? Unless it was a wedding, that's what I would do.

Jacque: free reshoot?

Kelly: I would start by not writing a letter at all. If the client paid you that is something that should be taken care of in person or at least via telephone conversation. The letter is going to seem impersonal and as though you are afraid to talk to them person to person... IMO.

Ennovy: Explain the situation & offer to re-shoot, in RAW of course...

Stephene: See if a professional re-toucher can do anything with the image. Call and get some consults. It may cost you...but that's business

Kelli: Definitely free session and a few prints.

Did she not check her pictures during the session? I check after each one, especially outside because the lighting changes so much.

Julie: I think this happens to a lot of photographers at some point...so first off don't feel bad! Just look at it as an opportunity to build your brand as someone dedicated to not only having a happy client, but work you are proud to claim as your own.

And I agree, TALK to your client! I can almost guarantee they will appreciate the investment you are making to offer them a reshoot. :)

Angela: Can't re-shoot, but I appreciate all the fab advice! I may look into a retoucher.

Angela: Oh, and from now on, I'm all raw :)

Jamie: all RAW and keep double checking your ISO. That's the one thing I always forget to adjust when lighting conditions change and it screws me here and there. Good luck with the client!

Adriana: I do suggest looking for a retoucher or seeing if anyone else can fix it for you. Always shoot RAW and always check your pics every so often. Do a quick look the minute you hit the shutter button to make sure it's okay and do a quick adjust when you have to

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