How can you best use testimonials in your photography portfolio?

1 Choose the right testimonials

Not all testimonials are created equal. You want to choose the ones that are specific, relevant, and authentic. Specific testimonials highlight your strengths, such as your creativity, flexibility, or attention to detail. Relevant testimonials match your target audience, niche, and style. Authentic testimonials sound natural, honest, and enthusiastic. Avoid generic, vague, or overly flattering testimonials that may sound fake or insincere.

2 Display them strategically

Once you have selected your testimonials, you need to decide how and where to display them on your portfolio. You have several options, such as creating a dedicated page, adding them to your homepage, or inserting them between your projects. The best option depends on your goals, layout, and design. You want to make sure that your testimonials are visible, readable, and consistent with your brand identity. You also want to balance them with your images, so that they complement, not distract from, your work.

3 Ask for permission and feedback

Before you use any testimonial on your portfolio, you need to ask for permission from your clients. This is not only a matter of courtesy, but also of legality and ethics. You want to respect your clients' privacy and preferences, and avoid any potential issues or disputes. You can also use this opportunity to ask for feedback and suggestions on how to improve your testimonial. For example, you can ask them to elaborate on a point, provide more details, or use their full name or initials.

4 Update them regularly

Testimonials are not static. They need to be updated regularly to reflect your current skills, services, and achievements. You don't want to use outdated or irrelevant testimonials that may confuse or mislead your potential clients. You also want to show that you are active, engaged, and committed to your photography career. Updating your testimonials can help you showcase your recent work, highlight your growth, and maintain your credibility.

5 Collect them proactively

Finally, you need to have a system to collect testimonials from your clients. You don't want to wait for them to come to you, or rely on chance or luck. You want to be proactive and ask for them at the right time and in the right way. The right time is usually soon after you deliver your work, when your clients are satisfied and impressed. The right way is to make it easy and convenient for them, by using online forms, surveys, or email templates. You can also offer incentives, such as discounts, referrals, or freebies, to encourage them to share their testimonials.