160 - Clients for Life with Mary Fisk-Taylor

Update: 2025-09-11

Description

Ever feel like you're constantly chasing new clients while the ones you've already photographed slip through your fingers, never to return?

This is the most exhausting and unsustainable way to run a business.

BUT it doesn’t have to be this way.

Client retention isn't just a nice-to-have—it's the literal foundation of any successful business.

Mary Fisk-Taylor of Hayes & Fiske Photography in Richmond, Virginia, has spent the last thirty years spoiling a clientele of loyal, repeat clients, and she’s joining us to share her secrets for how she turns one-time sessions into lifelong clients.

ATJ and Mary delve into how to set expectations, strategically plan future sessions, and cultivate authentic client relationships that extend beyond mere client satisfaction, fostering genuine brand loyalty over a lifetime.

This is your sign that it’s time for you to trade constant hustle for intentional, joyful relationships with clients who come back again and again—because they wouldn’t dream of celebrating their family milestones without YOU!

Here's a snapshot of what's covered:

Beyond talent: What truly brings clients back year after year
How to confidently plant seeds for future sessions without feeling salesy
Simple systems (even if you're not techy!) for tracking and encouraging repeat bookings
The art of setting boundaries and confidently "firing" bad-fit clients (without drama!)
How to naturally encourage powerful referrals

Whether you're just starting or celebrating your 30th year in business like Mary, this episode is packed with tips for client retention that you can start implementing today.

Episode Highlights:

Client Retention Is More Than Satisfaction. It's about building lasting relationships, not just delivering a good experience.
Start With the Expectation They’ll Return. Retention starts with the assumption that this isn’t a one-time deal.
Your Clients Want a Guide, Not Just a Photographer. Anticipate what’s next and lead your clients through it.
Every Session Should Plant Seeds for the Next. Whether it's a newborn, a five-year-old about to lose their teeth, or a senior portrait, always be talking about what’s next. This isn’t overselling, this is, literally, DOING OUR JOB. We are in charge of documenting the milestones and memories for our clients.
A Simple Google Calendar Can Be a Goldmine. You don’t need fancy systems, just a plan. Track milestones, stay in touch, and reach out before they think to call you.
Refinement Over Mining. The best clients are the ones who already love you. Stop chasing the new and start spoiling and deepening your relationship with the loyal ones.

Key Takeaways:

Why client retention is pure gold and the key to a sustainable photography business
Setting the stage for lifelong clients—even if you’re brand new
Proven strategies to win back clients who haven’t booked in years
How to keep families returning during the "awkward ages"
Why investing in current clients beats chasing new ones every time

Mary Fisk-Taylor: is a powerhouse portrait photographer, educator, and co-owner of Hayes & Fisk Photography in Richmond, Virginia. With over 30 years in business, she’s built a multi-million-dollar studio known for deeply loyal clients, generational relationships, and consistent sales of high-end artwork. As a past president of both PPA and WPPI, Mary is a nationally recognized leader in the industry and a sought-after speaker on client experience, profitability, and legacy branding. She also co-hosts the podcast, Get Your Shoot Together with Kira Derryberry.

If you’re tired of constantly chasing new clients, Mary’s proven strategies for client retention will show you how to build a portrait business that lasts and grows.

Click here to listen!

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Links & Resources:

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Exactly What To Say by Phil M. Jones

Atomic Habits by James Clear

3XM Folio Boxes

Monday.com

Get Your Shoot Together Podcast with Mary Fisk-Taylor and Kira Derryberry

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