How to handle client revisions without burning out?

I feel your pain. I've been there. The key is to set a clear revision limit in your contract. For example, I include two rounds of revisions in my base price, and after that, I charge an hourly rate for additional changes. I also specify what counts as a 'revision' – like a major change in direction or a full re-edit – versus a 'tweak' like a color grade or text fix. Tweaks are usually fine, but if they're endless, I still count them after the limit.

I also use a shared comment sheet (like Frame.io) where clients can consolidate their feedback. That way, they don't send a million emails with 'one more thing' – they have to put it all in one place per round. It's a game-changer. And I always remind them: 'After the second round, I'll send a quote for any additional changes.' That sets the expectation early.

Great advice from clipmaker32. I'd add that you should also define what 'revision' means in your contract. For example, I state that revisions are for 'adjustments to the existing edit' – not for new footage, new music, or changing the script. That's a new project or a separate charge. Also, I include a clause that says if revisions are requested more than 30 days after the final delivery, they're billable as a new project. That prevents clients from coming back months later with 'small changes'.

Another tip: use a project management tool like Notion or Trello to track revision requests. It keeps everything transparent and shows the client exactly how many rounds they've used. If they ask for a 'quick change' outside the revision window, I politely say, 'Sure, I can do that for $50, and it'll take a day.' It works because they either pay or drop it.

Thanks, clipmaker32 and help, that's really helpful. I think my biggest mistake was not having a contract at all – I was just using email and a handshake. I'm going to draft a simple contract with the two-round limit and the 'new project' clause. I'll also start using a comment sheet for feedback. I already use Frame.io for previews, so that's an easy fix.

I'm also going to charge a kill fee if they cancel mid-project, because I've had that happen too. I'm feeling much more confident now. Thanks for the advice – I'll update you all after my next project!