-> THE INFORMATION IN THIS ARTICLE WAS UPDATED NOV. 2023
The day I started using Sprout Studio, a CRM for photographers (CRM = Client Relationship Management), was a turning point for my photography business and the best investment I ever made. Sprout Studio transformed me from an impromptu photographer to an organized and professional one. I instantly felt more confident and in control of my business. I’ve been using Sprout Studio since 2018, and it has saved me a significant amount of time. Additionally, it has increased the trust factor with my clients, who now experience a streamlined and comprehensible process that is easy for them to follow.
To know more about how using a CRM changed my photography business, read this article:
-> 9 reasons why I use a CRM system for my photography business
Now, why do I believe that Sprout Studio is the best CRM for photographers? I have compiled a list of 10 reasons to support my belief (scroll down to see the list).
But first, let me explain the process I went through before choosing a CRM system:
It was important for me to find a system that I could commit to in the long run. I didn’t want to risk spending a lot of time learning and setting up a system, only to have to start all over again a year later.
Therefore, I thoroughly researched all the options for CRM systems for photographers. I explored well-known systems such as Iris Works, Honeybook, 17hats, Studio Ninja, and many more. While these are all good and widely used systems, there was always something missing for me.
- The following features were must-haves: contracts, client communication tools, booking pages, automation, pricing tools, questionnaires, client portals, invoicing, customizing and branding options, pre-written templates
- The service should be easy to set up.
- I prefer a nice and comprehensive interface for both myself and my clients.
- The pricing should be reasonable and provide value for my money.
- It would be a plus if the system was developed specifically for photographers.
In the end, I decided to sign up for trial versions of three different services that offered the features I needed at a reasonable price. These services were Pixifi, Tave, and Sprout Studio (as of 2018). After just a few days, it became clear to me which system I preferred: Sprout Studio. It stood out with its simplified and beautiful interface. It was evident to me that they understood the needs of photographers.
It was clear to me that Sprout Studio truly understands the needs of photographers. Although it took a bit of time to initially set everything up according to my preferences, the setup process was generally straightforward and easy to follow. Whenever I came across something unfamiliar, I found their tutorials to be helpful or reached out to their support team. The time I dedicated in the beginning was definitely worth it, as I now have a customized setup that perfectly reflects my brand, looks fantastic, and operates seamlessly. The systems provided by Sprout Studio are incredibly user-friendly, which not only saves me time but also helps me project a professional image to my clients. In addition to meeting my expectations, Sprout Studio pleasantly surprised me with some extra features that I hadn’t even considered. Thanks to these added features, Sprout Studio offered me the best value for my money.
- If you’re hesitant to use a CRM because you’re not yet very busy, now is actually the perfect time to start using one. Starting early will give you the opportunity to set everything up without feeling overwhelmed. By the time things start picking up, everything will be in place and running smoothly.
- Whether you’re fully booked or not, be prepared to dedicate a significant amount of time to implementing everything in Sprout Studio. It may take some time and perhaps some frustration as you familiarize yourself with the system, but the end result will be worth it.
- Take advantage of the “Sprout School” online course to help you understand how things work as you go.
- Make use of their knowledge library.
- Before setting up your price lists, have a clear understanding of the products you offer and their prices.
- If you offer products, ensure you have beautiful images of them to use in your price lists and online shops.
- Thoroughly test everything before sending anything to your clients.
Here are 11 reasons why I believe that Sprout Studio is the best CRM for photographers:
1. Sprout Studio is developed for photographers by photographers.
This means that the developers understand photographers’ needs, know how to listen to them, and can inspire and educate them. In addition to the CRM service, Sprout Studio offers much more. They provide regular tips on how to improve photographers’ businesses and create great templates for contracts, emails, workflows, and more, which can be used for their own businesses.
2. Beautiful client portal
I really like the client portal provided by Sprout Studio. Each client has their own personalized and private page that they can access at any time. On this page, they will find their galleries, design proofs, contracts, orders, questionnaires, relevant links, and much more. Take a sneak peek below or log in to my sample client portal for the full experience of how it looks and works:
Go to this page: https://picturelyspoken.sproutstudio.com/
Username: janedoe
Password: 123456
3. Contract feature with digital signing
With my Pro plan, I can create unlimited contract templates, ensuring that I have a contract ready for any situation that may arise. Additionally, there is a wide selection of contract templates available in the extensive contract template library, adding great value to the service. Each contract can be easily personalized for every client and is signed digitally. The entire process of creating, sending, and signing a contract only takes a few minutes. In case a client forgets to sign the contract, automatic reminders can be sent out, which is extremely helpful and efficient.
4. Online questionnaires
Imagine being able to easily create questionnaire templates to gather information from your clients. I always send a pre-session questionnaire to my clients so I can get to know them better. Additionally, instead of manually reminding them to complete it when they forget, I have set up automatic friendly reminders to be sent out.
5. Online Galleries
Integrated online galleries eliminate the need for an additional gallery subscription. These galleries can be customized with their own shop, allowing for direct orders from a connected lab (currently only available in the USA and Canada), or self-fulfilling options.
6. Booking pages
A booking page is a fixed (set up once) page where clients can follow the steps and book a photoshoot on their own. It includes pricing information, a section to fill in their contact information, a contract, and a payment section. Once they complete the steps, they will be automatically added as a client in Sprout Studio. You also have the option of including a scheduler where they choose a date before proceeding.
A single booking page (one per type of photoshoot you offer) can be shared via a link. See a sample here: Single booking page for photoshoot giftcards
Also, you can display several booking pages in a booking catalogue to showcase the different types of photoshoots you offer in one place. See mine here: Picturelyspoken Booking Catalogue This can easily be included on your website.
7. Scheduling feature
With the Sprout Studio scheduler tool, you can allow customers to easily choose a date for their booking. The automated booking feature makes it simpler than ever to schedule mini-sessions. Set it up once, and clients can select their preferred time slot and follow a few simple steps to complete the booking process. This includes signing the contract and making the payment.
8. Productivity tools
Sprout Studio offers a variety of tools to enhance productivity. These include Sprout Assistant, which sends automatic reminders, workflow building, a template library for emails, contracts, galleries, questionnaires, and more. Additionally, Sprout Studio provides payment processing tools, automatic invoicing, and guided bookings, and the best part is that all of these features are customizable to meet your specific needs.
9. Email marketing tools
Yes, you read that right, email marketing is included in all Sprout Studio plans. You can create beautiful emails using their designer email feature and set up automated drip campaigns (they even provide pre-made campaigns for you to use). Additionally, they offer pop-up form options for your website to assist you in capturing email subscribers.
10. Beautiful online pricelists
You have access to a powerful tool for organizing and pricing your products. This tool is seamlessly integrated with your booking pages and galleries, allowing you to customize it according to your preferences. You can include or exclude products as needed. Additionally, you have the option to create attractive public price lists that can be shared with (potential) clients.
11. Friendly customer service
One last thing that I find important to mention about why I love Sprout Studio is their friendly and attentive customer service. They are always ready to listen and assist in resolving any issues. Additionally, they are constantly evolving and improving, regularly adding new features. The fact that they specialize in the photography business makes Sprout Studio an excellent CRM for photographers.
Are you ready to take your business to the next level and try Sprout Studio out? Click below to try them out for free (no obligations)and get 20% off your first year. Please don’t hesitate to send me a message via the chat widget if you have any questions.
Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these, I get a small commission – at no additional cost to you. Also, you’ll receive a special offer, so it’s a win/win. I only recommend products I love, trust, and use myself. Thank you for your support!