Every producer’s had one: the client who changes the brief weekly, adds scope without adding budget, and somehow thinks you can deliver a Super Bowl ad on a YouTube budget.
The Red Flags
You can usually spot a difficult client in the first conversation:
- “We don’t have a budget yet, but…” Translation: they want free creative before committing
- “This should be quick and easy” Nothing is ever quick and easy
- “We need it by Friday” (It’s Thursday afternoon)
- “Can you just…” Scope creep incoming
How to Set Boundaries Early
The best way to handle difficult clients is to not let them become difficult in the first place. Here’s how:
1. Define scope in writing
What’s included, what’s not. How many revisions. Deliverable formats. Timeline. Get it signed before you start.
2. Build in change order fees
“Changes after approval = $X fee.” Makes them think twice before asking for a total re-edit three days before delivery.
3. Set realistic timelines
Don’t promise what you can’t deliver. If they push for a faster turnaround, explain what gets sacrificed (quality, revisions, crew availability).
When They Push Back
Clients will test boundaries. When they ask for extra deliverables, more shoot days, or major changes outside scope:
Don’t say: “That’s going to be really hard”
Say: “We can do that. Here’s the timeline and cost impact.”
Make it a business decision, not a complaint. They can add budget, adjust timeline, or drop the request. But they don’t get to add scope for free.
The Ones You Can’t Save
Sometimes a client is just wrong for you. Walk away if:
- They want you to work for exposure or portfolio-building (you’re not a student anymore)
- They refuse to put anything in writing
- They’re disrespectful to your crew
- They won’t pay a deposit or have a history of late/no payment
A bad client costs more than the revenue they bring in. Fire them early.
How to Fire a Client Professionally
“After reviewing the project scope and our availability, we don’t think we’re the right fit for this. Here are two other production companies you might want to reach out to.”
Don’t burn bridges. Don’t tell them they’re difficult. Just politely pass.
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