How to Deliver Photos to Clients: Best Practices and Platforms

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Delivering photos to clients professionally is just as important as capturing and editing them. A smooth delivery process enhances client experience, builds trust, and encourages referrals. Whether you’re sending wedding galleries, commercial images, or social media content, using the right platforms ensures secure, fast, and high-quality delivery. In this guide, we’ll explore the best practices and platforms for delivering photos to clients.

1. Choose the Right Delivery Method

The best method depends on file size, client preferences, and image security.

✅ Common Delivery Methods:

  • Online Galleries (Pixieset, ShootProof) – Best for professional presentation.
  • Cloud Storage (Google Drive, Dropbox) – Simple, but less branding control.
  • USB Drives – Best for high-end clients and physical keepsakes.
  • Printed Albums & Prints – Ideal for weddings and luxury services.

🔹 Tip: Offer multiple options to cater to different client needs.

2. Use an Online Gallery for a Professional Touch

Online galleries provide branded, high-resolution viewing experiences for clients.

✅ Best Online Gallery Platforms:

  • Pixieset – Stylish galleries, print integration, and download options.
  • ShootProof – Great for contracts, payments, and proofing.
  • SmugMug – Ideal for selling prints and licensing images.

🔹 Tip: Use password-protected galleries to keep client images private.

3. Optimize Image Size for Web and Print

Clients may need different file sizes for social media, printing, or websites.

✅ Recommended Export Settings:

  • Social Media: JPEG, sRGB, 2048px (longest side), 80% quality.
  • Print: TIFF or high-quality JPEG, AdobeRGB, 300dpi.
  • Web Use: WebP or compressed JPEG for faster loading.

🔹 Tip: Create a folder structure (e.g., “For Print” and “For Web”) for easy access.

4. Provide a Secure Backup Option

To prevent loss, ensure clients have backup access to their images.

✅ Ways to Offer Backup:

  • Keep images available in the gallery for 3–12 months.
  • Offer USB drives or external hard drives for large projects.
  • Suggest clients download and back up their images immediately.

🔹 Tip: Clearly state how long you’ll store the files before deletion.

5. Add Branding and Watermarks for Protection

Watermarking prevents unauthorized use, while branding keeps your work recognizable.

✅ Branding Tips:

  • Include a small, subtle watermark on preview images.
  • Use branded gallery links (e.g., yourname.pixieset.com).
  • Add a custom signature or logo to the delivery email.

🔹 Tip: Provide watermarked previews but offer high-res, non-watermarked downloads after final payment.

6. Make the Download Process Easy for Clients

Clients should be able to download their images effortlessly.

✅ Best Practices:

  • Provide clear instructions on how to download files.
  • Offer both individual image downloads and a “Download All” button.
  • Send a step-by-step email explaining how to access their gallery.

🔹 Tip: Use platforms like Pixieset and ShootProof, which allow easy mobile and desktop downloads.

7. Offer Prints and Albums for Additional Revenue

Upselling prints and albums increases client satisfaction and profits.

✅ Best Print Services:

  • Mpix – High-quality consumer prints.
  • WHCC (White House Custom Colour) – Luxury albums and canvases.
  • Artifact Uprising – Stylish, modern photo books.

🔹 Tip: Set up automated print sales in Pixieset or ShootProof to earn extra income.

8. Send a Personalized Delivery Email

A thoughtful delivery email enhances the client experience.

✅ What to Include in the Email:

  • A warm thank-you message.
  • Clear instructions on how to access and download images.
  • A reminder about print options or album upgrades.

🔹 Tip: Add a discount code for prints or future sessions to encourage repeat business.

9. Follow Up for Feedback and Reviews

Encourage clients to leave reviews and share their experience.

✅ Best Follow-Up Strategies:

  • Send a friendly email 1–2 weeks after delivery, asking for feedback.
  • Request a Google or Facebook review.
  • Offer a discount for referrals.

🔹 Tip: Positive reviews help build trust and attract new clients.

10. Keep Improving Your Delivery Process

Test different delivery methods and platforms to see what works best for your clients.

✅ How to Improve Over Time:

  • Survey clients about their experience.
  • Try new platforms (SmugMug, CloudSpot).
  • Automate galleries, emails, and backups for efficiency.

🔹 Tip: A seamless delivery process makes clients more likely to recommend your services.

Final Thoughts

Delivering photos professionally enhances your brand, improves client satisfaction, and boosts referrals. Using online galleries, secure backups, and a personalized touch, you can create an exceptional client experience while ensuring efficient workflow.

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