Welcome to 2017. For some of you, it may feel like the photography world is closing in on you, and closing in fast. But as we start the new year, if you have ever felt that you are like a fish out of water in this wild and crazy industry, there are ways to stay away from that feeling the world is collapsing.
It’s suddenly the new year, which means trade show season is about to kick off. Most of you will make it to at least one convention or conference between now and the end of April. Sadly, many of you will also waste time and money from the minute you walk into the convention hall to the time you get home.
The quality of images you provide your clients is paramount to your long-term success in the industry. Throughout all stages of my career, I have strived to perfect my craft by attending workshops, seminars and trade shows.
Destination weddings can be confusing and mysterious for photographers. When I started photographing weddings, I thought it would be amazing to travel the world to document our clients’ incredible wedding day.
Let’s take a quiz. Which company do you think you’re more likely to do business with—one that throws up a lot of expensive billboards to remind you it exists, or one you’re connected to directly, whose exclusive offers you receive in your personal inbox?
If you want to start making the cash register ring, in-person sales is the way to get that started (if you’re not already doing it). For those of you who are doing in-person sales, how do you take on out-of-town clients who can’t come into your studio after their session for their preview?
Generating new leads is the only way to stay in business in any industry. Photography isn’t any different. Think about it this way: What’s the probability a wedding client will hire you again for their next wedding?
I’ve written blog posts about the rules of engagement for professional photographers. A few of the rules are unique to imaging, but for the most part, they apply to any business.
I heard a great line a few years back about knowing when you’re ready to be a full-time photographer: “You’re not ready to go full time until you can’t afford not to!”
It is 2014. I am running a successful wedding photography business. I have transitioned out of the “full time” job and am now supporting my family 100 percent with photography. It is what most of us dream of.
