What should I tell my photo studio’s staff photographers before a sale?
Tell them after you have a serious buyer and a plan, not on a whim, and tell them yourself, in person. Be honest that the studio is for sale, say what you know about their roles, and explain what you cannot yet promise. Settle any questions about files and contracts with the buyer first.
Photographers talk, and a rumour can reach clients before you do. That is the reason to plan the message instead of letting it leak. Tell your lead photographers privately and early enough that they hear it from you, but not so early that you have nothing to offer them. Avoid giving different versions to different people, and keep notes of what you said and when. If someone decides to leave, ask them kindly to finish current bookings and pass files to the studio.
Decide with the buyer what you can say. Will they keep the team? Are there changes in pay, hours or equipment? Do not promise anything that the buyer has not agreed to. If you do not know yet, say so, and say when you expect to know.
Be clear about their work. Photographers often ask who owns the images they have taken, whether they can use them in portfolios, and what happens to a booking they were promised. Ask your lawyer to review those answers so you speak consistently. Afterward, hold a short meeting with the whole team and follow it with individual conversations. People remember how they were told. Offer to introduce the buyer and let them ask questions in person.
Key takeaways
- Tell your key photographers yourself, once a buyer is serious.
- Agree with the buyer what you can promise before speaking.
- Be ready for questions about image rights and bookings.
Related reading
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Sources
This answer is checked against primary sources. Links were last confirmed on the dates shown.
- 01Business Development Bank of CanadaIndustryHow to sell your business
- 02Business Development Bank of CanadaGovernmentHow to reduce employee turnover
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