I'm a freelance photographer, and I have an appointment at 2:30 today. It's about noon now.
The people I'm photographing are not paying me- I'm doing it as a favor to them because I got connected to them through a charity organization- they've never had a family portrait done, and they were nominated by a family member for some free gifts and services. I'm working today for them at no cost. Not a problem for me at all.
The problem is MY babysitter just flaked out, I can't get a hold of anyone else, and I can't get a hold of the people I'm photographing. While I know it's not ideal, do I take my kids along for the session and just apologize when I get there? I know it's not professional at all, but I really have no other option than this or just don't show up- and I hate for them to come all this way to meet me for their session and then find out we can't do it.
2007-11-19 04:51:09 · 13 answers · asked by Anonymous in Society & Culture ➔ Etiquette
I thought I might throw an extra 8x10 in with their package? Good Idea? Not?
2007-11-19 05:04:49 · update #1
My suggestion would be to bring them. I've had meetings with caterers and such and they brought their kids to the meeting. It's ok, they will understand. Don't stress. I bet they are just glad that you are doing it for FREE.
Smile.. Don't stress!
(LS)
2007-11-19 04:59:28 · answer #1 · answered by Bubblelips 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
As long as you are still able to get the session done with minimal distractions by your kids, I don't think this should be a problem. While it is a nice thought to throw in a free 8X10, i don't think it is necessary. It might seem too much like you're trying to make amends for something you did wrong, which you didn't...really. I would just make a simple and gracious apology for your kids being there, then move on and be as professional as possible for the rest of the time. Don't grovel or apologize TOO much! :)
2007-11-19 13:51:26 · answer #2 · answered by Katie G 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Bring the kids and explain that the babysitter cancelled at the last minute. Things happen. It's better to make the appointment to explain the kids than not show up at all. It could hurt your reputation as a professional if you don't show up regardless whether it was a free session. And when you arrive at the appointment, offer to just go ahead with the session or offer the clients an opportunity to reschedule.
2007-11-19 13:03:38 · answer #3 · answered by pathfindercia 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
These people were nominated for the free pictures so they must be normal good people. Just tell them that your babysitter had an emergency and that you couldn't find another person in time and that you tried to reach them. They will understand, and the extra 8x10 would be a great extra. Good luck.
2007-11-19 13:12:05 · answer #4 · answered by Johnny 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Well, don't leave your kids alone or with an inexperienced babysitter. If they have kids, I'm guessing that they'll understand if you take yours to the shoot. I suggest taking your kids and apologizing when you get there. But make sure your kids don't get really fussy and if they behave, get them a new toy or something (that isn't very expensive).
2007-11-19 13:40:12 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Bring your kids .Then make them behave.It will be fine if the kids are polite and dont act like monsters.Simply tell the family.Say Im very sorry but my babysitter canceled and I didnt know what to do.Then try to get it done as quickly and politely as possible.
2007-11-19 13:01:33 · answer #6 · answered by butterflyspy 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Take the kids. The photo is free, it is a family portrait anyway, so they should be family friendly, and they should just be grateful that you are doing this as a favor anyhow.
2007-11-19 12:56:34 · answer #7 · answered by Jennifer B 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes, take the kids along. Since the people you're photographing are a family, they should understand your own family complications. Who knows--maybe yours and theirs will hit it off and become friends!
2007-11-19 13:04:40 · answer #8 · answered by aida 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I think bringing them along is the best option. Apologizing will be no big deal and the people will be grateful you still made the appointment.
2007-11-19 12:55:54 · answer #9 · answered by Robdog 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes, take them and explain the situation. Anyone with kids knows this stuff happens all the time.
2007-11-19 13:00:51 · answer #10 · answered by leysarob 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋