Client Issue on usage

[FCP]

First, I should mention that I'm not only a retoucher but a photographer as well. I understand usage rights, permissions and proper etiquette.

I am in the process of designing a new web site. I'm NOT a web designer
and everything I do is trial, error, test, trial, error,test. One thing I've learned using Dreamweaver is that what might play nice in a Dreamweaver browser test may not play nice in a live test. I do both, build a page and test it through Dreamweaver and then upload to my server for a live test.

I've been playing around with different layouts using different images. These images vary and some are from clients. I unintentionally left a test home page live with client images on it and they found out. The response was not a pleasant one and was hoping someone can advise me on how I should handle it. It's a very important client, my largest one. They sent me a very aggressive email in which they appear very upset. Personally, I would not have reacted in such a way but I understand to a certain extent.

I explained in a response that it was unintentional and that If I ever wanted to use the images I would get permissions, give credit, and also give a back link. I haven't heard back yet. I can't lose this client. Any advise ?

F

[shift studio]

I find myself second guessing myself when I don't hear back in a timely manner, and wondering if a client isn't responding for this reason or that - imagining the worst. 99 times out of 100, I just haven't waited long enough.

So, how long has it been since your response?

edit: not that this has happened 100 times!!

[FCP]

Just a few hours. He actually said. "Do not call me, well discuss this tomorrow"

[shift studio]

yikes! Okay, next step is to back off a bit. Let him cool down.
From your description it sounds pretty innocent - is this guy a bit over-dramatic?
a hothead?

--Shift Studio.

edit: don't answer that - he may see your thread here too

[FCP]

Well, I really don't know him too well even though we've been doing business for over a year now. He appears to be very strict with his business practices. He seems like a real nice guy otherwise.

In this case, in my opinion, he's being over dramatic. I don't blame him to much but he should have spoke to me instead of reacting over email which can be misleading in terms of emotional intent. I'm just looking for a way to deal with it at this point. I always try to do the right thing.

[creativeretouch]

If client said "wait till tomorrow," you should respect his decision. He might be busy with some other thing.

Don't try to make him upset twice within one day

----------------------------
http://shotworldwide.com

[dataflow]

just apologize.
but dont just say it wont happen again instead tell him that you have implemented steps/workflow to insure you dont make the same mistake.
(make sure you think of ways of doing that in case he asks)

in your on words of course

[FCP]

Thank you everyone. I hope I can retain this client.

[capice]

As a photographer you know the drill and I guess your client is right. Maybe not in the way to react but ...you should'nt have used clientimages without proper conscent in writing/email. I hope you will work it out, good luck.

[Anthony Wood]

You made a mistake. It happens. Apologise sincerely with an explanation (but without grovelling) as you have - then move on. Sometimes people who get angry like this just let off steam and that's it. You may or may not lose the client. Good luck!