How to Ask for Photography Testimonials (Without the Stress)

Let’s talk about something most photographers tend to avoid (even though it’s so important): how to ask for photography testimonials.

You’ve just finished editing a session you’re super proud of. The photos are delivered, the clients seem happy… and now it’s time to ask for a review.

Cue the overthinking.

“Should I wait for them to offer one?”
“What if I sound pushy?”
“Do I even say anything?”

Sound familiar?

You’re NOT alone — figuring out how to ask for photography testimonials can feel weird at first. But the truth is, client reviews are one of the most powerful tools in your business.

And once you’ve got a simple process (and the right words), asking for them gets way easier.

Why Testimonials Actually Matter

It’s easy to think your photos will speak for themselves — and to a point, they do. But testimonials? They show what it’s like to actually work with you.

A great review builds trust, especially with clients who’ve never met you. It helps them feel confident clicking “book now” because they’ve seen what someone else experienced.

And let’s be honest — hearing someone say they felt comfortable, taken care of, or completely obsessed with their gallery? That’s just good to know.

Client testimonials do more than just make us feel warm and fuzzy. They also:

• Build trust with potential clients
• Help showcase the experience you provide — not just the final photos
• Give your brand a human touch
• Can be repurposed for your website, Instagram captions, pricing guides, and more
• Provide social proof that helps people say “yes” to booking

And here’s something worth remembering: a client may absolutely love your work but not think to write a testimonial UNLESS you ask. Life is busy. People intend to leave a review… and then they get caught up with the next thing. It’s not personal. They just need a little nudge!

When Is the Best Time to Ask for a Testimonial?

If you’re wondering how to ask for photography testimonials in a way that actually works, timing is a big part of it.

The sweet spot is 2–5 days after gallery delivery.

At this point:

• They’ve had time to sit with the images and feel the emotions
• They’re still riding the high of seeing themselves and their loved ones captured beautifully
• The session is still fresh in their mind, which means more detailed, genuine feedback

You want them to still be in that happy glow of “wow, we love these,” but not so far out that they’ve already moved on mentally.

For weddings or larger projects, you can even send a short note after the sneak peeks, and follow up after the full gallery. It’s okay to space it out — the goal is to find a moment that feels natural.

What to Say When Asking for a Testimonial?

Now for the part you came here for — what do you actually say?

Here are a few tips to keep your testimonial request friendly, non-salesy, and effective:

1. Be Personal

Start your message with something specific to their session:

“I still can’t get over the way your pup posed for that family photo!”
or
“You two absolutely rocked that golden hour glow — what a day!”

2. Keep It Casual

You don’t need fancy language. Be yourself! Talk the way you’d talk in person. Something like:

“I’d love to hear what you thought of the whole experience — it helps me grow and helps others know what it’s like to work with me!”

3. Make It Easy

Some clients want to leave you a raving review but… don’t know what to say. So give them prompts! Try: How did you feel during your session?

4. Give Them Options

Let them choose how they respond — Google review, email reply, a social media shoutout, whatever works. Some people are private, some are not!

Want a Shortcut?

If you’re thinking:

“Ugh, I want to say all of that but I have no time to write different emails for every kind of session…”

I TOTALLY GET IT! Writing emails from scratch every single time isn’t really the idea of fun — especially when we’re juggling editing queues, inboxes, and, you know, life.

That’s why I created my own Testimonial Email Template Bundle for Photographers — and now I’m sharing them with you!

These are the exact emails I use in my own photography business after weddings, family sessions, portrait shoots, and more. They’ve helped me get thoughtful, beautiful testimonials without having to overthink every message I send!

These emails are written in a casual, friendly tone that feels like a real conversation — not a sales pitch. You can customize them to your voice or just copy + paste and hit send!

What’s Inside the Testimonial Email Bundle for Photographers:

• 15 custom testimonial request templates
• Templates tailored to specific session types:
  weddings, elopements, maternity, newborn, family, boudoir, engagement, couples, branding, solo portraits, and more
• A clickable table of contents to find what you need fast
• Written in a friendly, casual tone that feels like you’re just chatting with your client
• A quick guide on how to use and personalize them
• Designed in Canva (so it’s easy to edit, copy, and send)

Whether you’re new to photography or you’ve been doing this for years, these templates will help you confidently follow up with clients — and actually get the kind of reviews that make your work shine.

Why This Matters

You’ve done the hard part: creating an experience worth raving about.
Let’s not let those kind words get lost just because asking feels awkward.

With the right timing, a little personalization, and a relaxed tone, you can gather feedback that helps build trust and showcase the kind of photographer (and person) you are!

PS: Don’t underestimate what one powerful review can do. One client’s words could be the reason the next one reaches out.

👉 Grab the Testimonial Email Templates here