Don't worry, I'm not dead!
Wednesday 08 April 2009 at 09:49 am. Used tags: business, photographyA rather dramatic title to this blog post I know, but now nearing 50 days since my last entry you'd be forgiven in thinking I'd be trounced by an eighty-two bus. Rest assured this is not the case, I've just been busy!
Hello Photographer?
Whoever tells you that being a photographer is a life behind the lens on sunny hillsides caressed by a light breeze is talking rubbish.
Like any burgeoning business initial efforts are spent working on budgets, accounting, marketing strategies, and all that boring stuff. In fact with the exception of some photography courses and small portrait sessions I've spent the majority of my time behind a computer screen.
Planting the seeds of growth
In a world consumed by both wanna-be and professional photographers it is surely one of the most difficult professions to make a living in, especially when you're determined to be selective and apply your own artistic style.
Marketing is therefore key to being successful, and your portfolio at the centre of that strategy. It is also important that people are able to find you and your portfolio, and that you are sending a clear message about the services you provide.
Portfolio building
Challenging is overcoming the catch-22 situation of building your portfolio to attract clients, whilst in the absence of lots of resources and volunteers, you need clients to build your portfolio. It is here that I have failed most.
Despite planned 'open studio weekends' and recruiting volunteers I have let events conspire against me, my portfolio is stale as ever. As a photographer specialising in Fashion, Weddings, and Portraiture my portfolio is largely void of all three. With advertising already on it's way to print it's now urgent this is redressed.
Open-studio weekend : This weekend!
With the easter weekend approaching my intention is to hold a long open-studio weekend. If I can at all persuade you to volunteer do please contact me. In return you will be able to take away a copy of the shots produced on the day, and enjoy our buffet of Chilli and Beer. Should you not be available or unable travel, don't worry as I can come to you.
Thanks!
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