What to Do When Coaches Don't Pass Out Picture Day Flyers.

Are you struggling because coaches aren’t distributing school picture day flyers? It’s a common frustration, but don’t worry—it’s a problem that’s completely fixable. In this guide, we’ll break down four simple steps to ensure a smooth picture day, boost your sales, and make you the hero in your sports photography program.

STEP 1

Be a Proactive Partner, Not an Annoyance.

Coaches are juggling a lot of responsibilities, from game plans to handling athlete injuries. Picture day can feel like a distraction. So, how do you make sure they help you out without adding to their stress? Here’s how to make it easy for them:

Find the Right Person

Coaches often delegate communication to team parents or assistants. Befriend this person and ask their preferred method of contact.

Be Direct and Efficient

Most coaches don’t have time for long explanations and confusing processes. Keep your messages concise, clear, and straight to the point.

Ready-to-Go Messages

Make it as easy as possible by giving the coaches a pre-written message to forward to parents. They will be much more likely to send it.

What's in It for Them

Coaches may need pictures for the media guide or athletic programs. Remind them of how your photos help them and the team.

STEP 2

Monitor Online Traffic to Track Sales

Online ordering is a blessing, but what if you notice that no one’s ordering? Don’t panic—it’s likely they’ve just forgotten. Now’s the time to remind them.

Monitor Traffic

If you see no orders, it’s not a sign of disinterest. It’s a reminder that people need a nudge.

Send a Friendly Reminder

If you see no orders, it’s not a sign of disinterest. It’s a reminder that people need a nudge.

Provide the Link

Make it easy for the coach by providing a link and message they can copy and paste.

Follow Up

Wait 24 hours and check the orders again. If no action, send another reminder. It’s all about making it easy for the coach.

STEP 3

Collect Orders Like a Pro

A lot of photographers make the mistake of extending the deadline, thinking they’ll help parents by offering more time. In reality, this only delays the process and causes people to forget. Here’s how to handle deadlines:

Set a Firm Deadline: A short window creates urgency and boosts sales. Stick to your deadlines to avoid dragging things out.

Provide Reminder Cards: Hand out reminder cards on picture day with a clear call to action. Include a QR code that directs parents to the order page and say, “Prepay closes tonight—don’t miss out!”.

Create Urgency: Encourage a last-minute “Oh no, I need to order now” reaction from parents. It’s important to keep the pressure on without overwhelming them.

STEP 4

Automate Late Orders & Turn Procrastinators into Customers

It’s inevitable—some parents will miss the deadline. But instead of getting frustrated, turn this into an opportunity to serve them.

Here’s your script for late orders:

Acknowledge Their Interest:

When a parent reaches out, let them know you’re happy they want to order.

Offer Two Options:

  1. Immediate Order: If they need their photos ASAP, send them a direct link so they can place the order and have it shipped directly to them.
  2. Late Order with Team Pricing: Offer them the chance to wait for a follow-up order (in the next couple of weeks) and still get the team pricing.

Listen to Their Needs:

Let the parent decide which option works best for them. Make them feel like they’re still getting a deal, even if they’re ordering late.

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Ready to streamline your school picture day and boost your sales?

Don’t let unresponsive coaches or missed deadlines derail your success. With a system like imago in place, you’ll ensure that every parent who wants to order gets the chance to do so—and you’ll close more sales in the process.

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