Print It
In today's digital age, it's easy to snap photos, store them on our devices, and occasionally share them on social media. However, there's something uniquely special about printed photographs that make them worth cherishing. That route is very temporary. A few likes on social, forgotten on a hard drive. Let’s do more with your images. Print them out.
Tangible Memories
Printed photos serve as tangible memories that you can hold, touch, and display. They offer a physical connection to the moment captured, evoking emotions and nostalgia in a way that digital images often cannot. Whether it's a family portrait or a candid shot from your vacation, having a printed copy allows you to relive that memory in a more personal and intimate way.
Display and Decoration
Printed photos offer endless opportunities for displaying and decorating your home or office. You can frame your favorite shots, create a gallery wall, or even make personalized home decor items such as photo pillows, mugs, or coasters. These visual reminders of your cherished memories can enhance the ambiance of any space, adding warmth and character.
Gifts and Keepsakes
Printed photos make thoughtful gifts and keepsakes for your loved ones. Whether it's a framed print of a special moment, a custom photo book, or a set of personalized notecards, these heartfelt gestures are a meaningful way to share and celebrate the memories that you hold dear.
Supporting Professional Photographers
When you invest in printed photo sessions, you are supporting the work of professional photographers who dedicate their time and talent to capturing your memories. By purchasing prints, you not only receive high-quality, archival-grade photos but also contribute to the livelihoods of these skilled artists.
In conclusion, there is immense value in preserving your photo sessions through prints. The tangible nature of printed photos fosters a deeper connection with your memories, creates a lasting legacy for future generations, enhances your living spaces, and supports the work of professional photographers. So, the next time you have a photo session, be sure to consider the importance of printing your images and cherishing those memories for a lifetime.
Vendors Photographers Need (pt3)
Vendors for Headshot Photogs
As a headshot photographer, establishing relationships with various vendors and professionals can help you enhance your services, provide valuable resources for clients, and grow your business through referrals and collaborations. Some key vendors to connect with include:
Hair and Makeup Artists
Professional hair and makeup can significantly enhance the quality of your clients' headshots. Partnering with skilled artists ensures your clients look their best during the photo session.
Wardrobe Stylists
Working with a wardrobe stylist can help your clients select the perfect outfits for their headshots, resulting in polished and professional images.
Professional Networking Groups
Connecting with local professional networking groups can provide a pool of potential clients in need of headshots for their personal branding or business marketing materials.
Graphic Designers and Web Developers
Collaborating with graphic designers and web developers can lead to referrals for your photography services, as they often work with clients who need headshots for their websites or promotional materials.
Acting Schools and Theater
Actors require professional headshots for their portfolios, making acting schools and theaters a valuable source of potential clients.
Corporate Event Planners
Networking with corporate event planners can lead to opportunities to offer on-site headshot services for conferences, workshops, and other business events.
Business Coaches & Consultants
Business coaches and consultants often work with clients who need professional headshots for their personal branding or marketing materials. Collaborating with these professionals can result in mutual referrals.
Social Media & Marketing Professionals
Partnering with social media and marketing professionals can provide opportunities for cross-promotion and referrals, as they often work with clients who require updated headshots for their online presence.
By connecting with these vendors and professionals, you can enhance your headshot photography services, offer additional resources for your clients, and grow your business through referrals and collaborations.
Vendors Photographers Need (pt2)
Vendors for Newborn Photogs
Introduction
As a newborn photographer, building strong relationships with related vendors can enhance your services, provide valuable resources for clients, and help grow your business. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the key vendors you should connect with, including OBGYNs, bakers for baby showers, doulas, balloon and decor vendors, and baby shops.
OBGYNs
OBGYNs are often one of the first resources expectant parents turn to for advice and recommendations. By networking with local OBGYNs, you can position yourself as a trusted newborn photographer in the community, potentially gaining referrals from their patients.
Doulas
Doulas provide invaluable support to families during pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period. By networking with doulas, you can create a referral system that benefits both businesses, as well as provide clients with trusted recommendations for additional support.
Bakers for Baby Showers
Many families celebrate the impending arrival of a new baby with a baby shower, often featuring a beautifully crafted cake or desserts. Connecting with local bakers specializing in baby shower confections can lead to collaborations, as well as referrals for your photography services.
Balloon and Decor Vendors
Collaborating with vendors specializing in balloons and event decor can help you create beautiful, memorable photo sessions for your clients. These vendors can also refer their clients to you for newborn photography services. Pro tip: balloon and decor vendors always know great bakers.
Baby Shops
Baby shops are a hub for expectant parents and can serve as a valuable referral source for your photography business. Building connections with local baby shops can lead to collaborations on events, workshops, or promotional offers that benefit both businesses.
Conclusion
By cultivating relationships with these key vendors, you can enhance your services, offer additional resources to your clients, and grow your newborn photography business through referrals and collaborations. Networking within your community is an essential part of building a successful and thriving photography business.
Vendors Photographers Need (pt 1)
Vendors for Wedding Photogs
As a wedding photographer, there are several types of vendors you should be familiar with to ensure a smooth and successful wedding experience for your clients. Establishing relationships with these professionals can also lead to potential referrals and collaborations:
1. Wedding Planners/Coordinators: These professionals are responsible for managing the overall logistics of the wedding day. They ensure that everything runs smoothly and on time, which can be beneficial for you as a photographer.
2. Venues: Establishing relationships with popular venues in your area can help you understand their rules and regulations regarding photography, as well as lighting conditions and ideal photo locations within the venue.
3. Florists: Understanding the florist's design and style can help you capture the best shots of the floral arrangements, bouquets, and boutonnieres.
4. Cake Designers: Cake designers create beautiful and unique cakes that often serve as a focal point at the reception. Familiarizing yourself with their work can help you capture the perfect shots.
5. Catering Companies: Caterers manage food and beverage service throughout the event. Knowing their schedule and setup can help you capture important moments like the cake cutting or champagne toast.
6. DJs and Bands: Entertainment vendors are crucial for setting the tone and atmosphere of the wedding. Working with them ensures you capture important moments like the first dance or grand entrance.
7. Hair and Makeup Artists: These professionals help the couple and their wedding party look their best for photos. Knowing their timeline helps you plan your own schedule.
8. Videographers: Collaborating with videographers ensures you both capture important moments without getting in each other's way.
9. Officiants: Establishing a good rapport with the officiant is essential to understanding any photography restrictions or guidelines during the ceremony.
10. Invitation Designers and Calligraphers: These vendors create beautiful invitations and signage that can serve as photo-worthy details at the wedding.
11. Wedding Dress and Attire Providers: Familiarizing yourself with local bridal boutiques and formalwear providers can help you understand trends and styles, as well as establish relationships for potential referrals.
By building a strong network of wedding vendors, you can provide a better experience for your clients and ensure you capture the best possible images on their special day.
Organization + Business = Successful Photography Business
Organization + Business = Successful Photography Business
In the fast-paced world of photography, maintaining a well-organized business can be the key to success. From managing clients and scheduling shoots to handling post-production and marketing, photographers must juggle multiple tasks and responsibilities. In this blog post, we'll explore the importance of organization in a photography business and share tips for streamlining your workflow.
The Benefits of Organization
A well-organized photography business offers numerous advantages:
1. Time Management: Organization helps you prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and make the most of your time. By staying on top of your schedule, you can accommodate more clients and grow your business. This is extremely important if you have little ones.
2. Professionalism: Clients appreciate photographers who are punctual, reliable, and efficient. Organization ensures that you deliver a smooth and professional experience, which in turn leads to positive reviews and repeat business.
3. Stress Reduction: Running a business can be stressful, but organization helps minimize stress by reducing chaos and uncertainty. When your workflow is streamlined, you can focus on what you do best—creating beautiful images.
4. Enhanced Creativity: An organized business frees up mental space and energy for creative pursuits. With less time spent on administrative tasks, you can channel your energy into refining your artistic vision and developing your photography skills.
Tips for Organizing Your Photography Business
1. Implement a Client Management System: Use a customer relationship management (CRM) tool to track client information, project details, and communication. This helps you stay on top of client needs and ensures no important details fall through the cracks. I recommend Sprout Studio.(click for free trial. No CC needed )
2. Create a Workflow Checklist: Develop a comprehensive checklist that outlines the steps involved in each project, from initial consultation to final image delivery. This ensures consistency and prevents tasks from being overlooked.
3. Manage Your Schedule Effectively: Use a calendar or scheduling tool to manage bookings, deadlines, and personal commitments. Set aside blocks of time for each task, ensuring you have adequate time for both photography and administrative duties.
4. Optimize Your File Storage: Implement an efficient file management system for storing and organizing your photos. Use folders and subfolders, along with descriptive file names and metadata, to quickly locate and retrieve images. My preference is to use year/ month/ client name. My subfolders are a raw folder, gallery folder, edit folder, and final images folder.
5. Automate and Outsource: Identify time-consuming tasks that can be automated or delegated. Invest in software and tools that streamline post-production, and consider outsourcing tasks like accounting or marketing to professionals.
By implementing these organization strategies in your photography business, you'll unlock new levels of efficiency, professionalism, and success. Remember, organization is not a one-time task—it's an ongoing commitment to refining and improving your workflow. Happy organizing!
Photo Usage Rights Explained
Photo Usage Rights Explained
Photo usage rights refer to the legal rights and permissions granted to people or business entities regarding the use of images you, the photographer, took. Understanding these rights is essential for both you and photo users to avoid copyright infringement and ensure compliance with legal requirements. Here's an overview of key terms and concepts related to photo usage rights:
Copyright
Copyright protection is automatically granted to the photographer or creator of an image, giving them exclusive rights to reproduce, distribute, display, perform, and create adaptations of their work. RAW images are like film negatives and help prove you are the one who took the photo. Don’t give away the RAWs unless you sell it at a premium.
Licensing
Photographers can grant usage rights to others by licensing their images. Licensing agreements define specific terms, conditions, and limitations for using the images. Specify whether your client can use your image on a billboard, social media, websites, and / product packaging.
Model and property releases
When using images featuring identifiable people or private property, photographers and users must obtain appropriate releases from the subjects or property owners to avoid potential legal issues. If you haven’t stated in your contract you would like to promote with a certain image or put that image in a book to sell, you leave yourself open to being sued.
Understanding and adhering to photo usage rights is crucial for ethical and responsible image use. Always respect the intellectual property rights of photographers, models, and property owners, and ensure you have the appropriate permissions and licenses for your intended use.
K.I.S.S.
Keep It Simple Stupid
Sorry, I’m not calling you stupid. It was a phrase my art professors used in college. K.I.S.S. This couldn’t be more important when organizing your website, social media, and exclusive content. There are so many things a business can offer and talk about that potential clients can get lost in the sauce.
The K.I.S.S. version of this blog
Stick to posting about one niche. Make sure your site is super user friendly and there is always a way clients can contact you.
the long-winded,hyper EXPLAINED version
Consistent Voice
Lets use Nike for this point. They have a consistent voice. Everything is about sports. When you make a website, know your voice and be consistent. Nike doesn’t dip into politics or comedy. They stick to sports. Say the same thing on your website that you say on your social media. Say the same thing on Twitter that you say on Threads. Have the same voice you have on TikTok that you have on Instagram. You never know where your next client will come from.
Ease of use
Your website is where potential clients will be directed when they run a Google Search. This is where implementing K.I.S.S. will help the most. Keep your website as simple as possible. Treat your website visitors like a teenager with ADHD. Keep they’re attention by getting to the point immediately. Who are you? What do you do? This is how you can be contacted. Try to go with a minimalist layout. Less is more.
Put it all together
Having a clear voice means the client knows exactly what you’re offering. An easy to use website will keep the client engaged. The minute you lose the client’s attention by posting about something that has nothing to do with what you’re selling or there is too much text, bells, and whistles; the client moves on to the next site or post.
See the difference?
Save Money, Get Digitals
Save Money, Get Digitals
Investing in digital backgrounds for newborn photography can offer several benefits:
1. Versatility: Digital backgrounds allow for easy customization and flexibility in creating unique and personalized images for your clients. With a wide range of backgrounds available, you can quickly and easily switch between different themes and styles, without the need for physical props or location changes.
2. Time-saving: Using digital backgrounds can save you valuable time during photo shoots, as you won't need to spend time setting up and adjusting physical backdrops. This efficiency can enable you to focus more on capturing great images and interacting with your clients.
3. Cost-effective: Digital backgrounds are often more affordable than physical backdrops, especially in the long run. Once purchased, a digital background can be used repeatedly without incurring additional costs, unlike physical backdrops which may require maintenance, storage, or replacement.
4. Easy to use: With basic knowledge of photo editing software, incorporating digital backgrounds into your images is relatively simple. Many digital backgrounds come with tutorials or instructions, making the learning curve accessible for photographers at all skill levels.
With the correct light source and knowledge of layers and masks in Photoshop, digital backdrops can add variety to your newborn photo sessions.
When is the Best Time to Promote Christmas Sessions?
When is the Best Time to Promote Christmas Sessions?
To maximize interest and ensure a steady stream of clients, it's generally a good idea to start promoting Christmas photo sessions several months in advance, usually around September or early October. This allows potential clients enough time to learn about your services and plan their holiday photo shoots accordingly.
Early promotion (September - early October): Announce that you'll be offering Christmas photo sessions and encourage clients to book early to secure their preferred dates. Offer early-bird discounts or special incentives for clients who book during this period.
Mid-season promotion (mid-October - November): Continue promoting your Christmas photo sessions through social media, email campaigns, and other marketing channels. Share photos from previous holiday shoots to showcase your work and create a sense of urgency by reminding clients that spots are filling up fast.
Last-minute promotion (December): Target last-minute shoppers and clients who may have missed your earlier promotions. Offer limited-time discounts or special offers to attract clients who still want to capture memorable holiday moments.
Keep in mind that it's essential to communicate deadlines for clients to receive their photos in time for holiday cards or gifts. By promoting your Christmas photo sessions well in advance and maintaining a strong marketing presence throughout the season, you'll increase your chances of attracting a steady stream of clients and ensuring a successful holiday photography season.
Moral of this story… Start promoting NOW!
Wedding, Portrait, or Product: Which Photography Makes the Most?
WHO…
BANKS…
THE MOST?
Which type of photography banks the most? If we assume the three types of photographers have the same level of skill, customer relationships, and marketing knowledge, we can examine some general trends in these three photography fields.
Portrait Photographer
Portrait photographers typically work with individuals or families to capture special moments, create professional headshots, or document milestones like graduations, engagements, or maternity shoots. Their income can vary widely, but according to data from Salary.com, the average annual salary for a portrait photographer in the United States is around $45,000 to $65,000. Keep in mind that earnings can be higher for experienced photographers who have established a strong reputation or specialized in a particular niche like high-end, luxury portraits.
Wedding Photographer
Wedding photographers capture one of the most significant moments in a couple's life, and their services are often in high demand. According to a survey by WeddingWire, the average cost of a wedding photographer in the United States is around $2,000 to $5,000 per event, with experienced photographers in high demand locations earning even more. On average, a successful wedding photographer can earn between $50,000 to $100,000 annually, but this largely depends on the number of weddings they book, the packages they offer, and their reputation in the industry.
Product Photographer
Product photographers work with businesses and brands to create compelling images for advertising, marketing, and e-commerce purposes. The income range for product photographers can vary widely, with factors such as experience, location, and the specific industry they serve playing a role. According to ZipRecruiter, the average annual salary for product photographers in the United States is around $60,000, with some top earners making over $100,000 annually.
In summary, all three types of photographers have the potential to earn a comfortable income, with wedding photographers possibly having the highest earning potential on average due to the demand for their services and the high value placed on capturing such a significant event. However, individual results may vary, and it's essential for photographers in any field to continually hone their skills, build their portfolios, and market themselves effectively to maximize their earning potential.
Alignable vs. LinkedIn
Alignable vs. LinkedIn
In today's digital age, networking platforms have become essential tools for professionals seeking to expand their connections and explore new opportunities. Two popular platforms used for business networking are Alignable and LinkedIn. Let's delve into a comparison of these platforms, examining their key features, user bases, and overall focus.
Alignable
Alignable is a small business-focused networking platform that aims to connect local businesses and facilitate referrals and collaboration. Some key features include:
Local focus: Alignable emphasizes connecting with nearby businesses, making it ideal for entrepreneurs and professionals seeking to engage in local networking.
Business advice: The platform allows members to share knowledge, tips, and resources with their peers.
Referral network: Alignable helps businesses build and maintain relationships with other local businesses, leading to mutually beneficial referrals.
LinkedIn is a global networking platform catering to professionals across all industries, job levels, and company sizes. Key features include:
Global reach: With over 700 million users worldwide, LinkedIn offers vast networking potential and the ability to connect with professionals from various industries and locations.
Professional branding: Users can showcase their skills, experience, and accomplishments through detailed profiles, allowing them to build their personal brand.
Job search and recruiting: LinkedIn is a popular destination for job seekers and recruiters, offering job listings, applicant tracking, and networking opportunities.
Comparison
When comparing Alignable and LinkedIn, consider your networking goals and needs. Alignable is an excellent choice for small business owners and professionals seeking to establish local connections, collaborate with nearby businesses, and exchange referrals. LinkedIn, on the other hand, is a more comprehensive platform suited to professionals looking to expand their global network, explore job opportunities, and develop their personal brand.
Ultimately, both platforms serve unique purposes and can be valuable tools in your professional networking strategy. By utilizing both Alignable and LinkedIn, you can tap into the distinct benefits of each platform and broaden your networking potential.
Headshots in Action
Elevate Your Personal Brand with Custom Headshot Business Cards
In today's competitive business landscape, making a strong first impression is crucial. One way to stand out from the crowd and showcase your professionalism is by investing in custom headshot business cards. Here are some key benefits of using headshot business cards to elevate your personal brand:
Memorable First Impression
A well-designed business card with a high-quality, professional headshot makes a lasting impression on potential clients, partners, and colleagues. Your headshot showcases your personality and professionalism, while the card itself demonstrates your attention to detail and commitment to quality.
Establish Credibility and Trust
Investing in custom headshot business cards communicates your dedication to your personal brand and your field of work. This attention to detail helps establish credibility and trust with potential clients and partners, who will feel confident in your ability to deliver exceptional results.
Effective Networking Tool
Having a stack of custom headshot business cards on hand makes it easy to exchange contact information and connect with others at events, conferences, and meetings. Your professional headshot will help new connections remember you and your brand, making it more likely they'll reach out when they need your services.
If you're ready to take your personal brand to the next level, consider investing in custom headshot business cards. I will work closely with you to capture the perfect headshot and design a card that reflects your unique style and brand. Contact me today to get started!
Boost Your Business with Professional Headshots & Product Photography
Boost Your Business with Professional Headshots & Product Photography
In today’s highly competitive market, making a great first impression is crucial to the success of your business. One effective way to achieve this is by investing in professional headshots and product photography. In this blog post, we’ll explore the numerous benefits of using high-quality images to showcase your brand and products.
Professional Headshots: Putting a Face to Your Brand
Professional headshots are an excellent way to introduce yourself and your team to potential clients and partners. These images reflect the personality and professionalism of your business, and here are some of the key benefits:
Build trust and credibility: A polished and well-presented headshot conveys the message that you’re an expert in your field, making it easier for clients to trust and invest in your products or services.
Enhance your brand image: Consistent, high-quality headshots across your team create a cohesive and visually appealing brand image that sets you apart from the competition.
Boost engagement on social media: Adding a professional headshot to your social media profiles humanizes your brand and encourages people to engage with your content, fostering valuable connections with your audience.
Product Photography: Showcasing Your Offerings
In the age of online shopping, high-quality product photography is a powerful tool to attract customers and boost sales. Here’s how professional product photos can make a difference:
Boost your conversion rate: High-quality images that accurately represent your products can influence purchasing decisions and increase your conversion rate.
Reduce product returns: Detailed and accurate images help customers make informed decisions, reducing the likelihood of returns and improving customer satisfaction.
Strengthen your brand identity: Consistent and visually appealing product photography reinforces your brand’s style and aesthetic, creating a memorable impression on potential customers.
Investing in Professional Photography: A Smart Business Move
Professional headshots and product photography are essential components of a successful branding strategy. By investing in high-quality images, you can showcase your business in the best possible light, build trust with potential clients, and ultimately increase your bottom line.
To take your business to the next level, consider partnering with GR Design & Photography for professional headshots and product photography services. Our experienced team specializes in creating stunning images that highlight the unique strengths of your brand. Contact us today to get started!
Branding FAQ
Branding FAQs
Branding photography is the images used to represent your business. It showcases your product’s quality, your team’s approachability, and your professionalism through elements such as headshots and well-designed logos. This is made with product photography, headshot photography, lifestyle photography, and graphic design. Here are a few frequently asked questions when it comes to branding.
What makes a GR Design & Photography branding session different?
Branding photographers will get your business amazing photography to put on your website. A graphic designer can make a great logo, brochures, and set up advertisements for your marketing. I can do both. There is no need to search for multiple vendors when one will suffice.
Where do I start?
So you’re a new business but aren’t sure where to get started, or you’re an established business but don’t know how to revamp your look. I can guide you through multiple options the average business needs. From something as small as a business card to something as big as setting up ads for billboards, magazines, and websites.
What are some of the things included in branding sessions?
Some things include in branding sessions are as follows: Headshot, corporate half/full day sessions, product photography, bts or lifestyle photography, and graphic design. Graphic design elements include: logos, advertising design, brochures with pricing or business info, and more.
In conclusion…
Branding photography and design can raise the value of your business. If you have a great service based business but no images of you in action, you’re missing opportunities to connect with clients. If you have a remarkable product, but have cellphone images poorly displayed on your website then potential customers will click back on Google search and find something that does look professional. Quality photography and well executed graphic design can lead to more leads. More leads can snowball into more sales and that is everyone’s goal in business.
Click for a branding consult. We can discuss your business needs.
Maternity Photo FAQ
Your pregnancy is a very important, emotional part of your life. You’re only pregnant with this baby once. If you want to cherish those memories with a maternity photographer here are some FAQ so you can get the best time during your session and images from that session possible.
Where do you start?
Shop around. Look at photographers’ websites. Their gallery should have many examples of maternity. The more different examples of pregnant bellies, the more experience. The more experience a photographer has, the better your session will be. Talk to your potential photog. The vibe you get over the phone (YES TALK ON THE PHONE) is an indication of the vibe you will get in person. Do they know your questions before you ask? Do they have locations at the ready? Are they confident with the price they give you?
What to Wear?
Some photographers provide maternity dresses. If you need to provide your own, you can find the dress you want from $30 up to $200 for a moderately priced dress. Extravagant dresses can go from $300- thousands. My recommendation as a photographer is to get something that hugs the belly. We want it to be painfully obvious that this portrait session is about the belly. When the dress doesn’t hug the belly, you tend to look like you’re in a pretty dress that is loose.
When to photograph?
When should you photograph your maternity session? Two things determine when you should photograph your session: how big your belly is and how mobile you still are. Every pregnancy is different. You might be 6 months and look like you’re having twins. In my experience, the end of 7m- the beginning of 8m is where you show the most and are still comfortable getting around. I do not recommend booking close to 9m. There is always a chance you deliver early.
Does a Photographer NEED a Studio?
Does a Photographer NEED a Studio?
The short answer is NO! You don’t need a college degree either. The truth is you really can just pick up a camera, charge x amount for x type of photography, and be very lucrative. Social media and educational videos have made this easier than ever to achieve but the question is do you need a studio? There are drawbacks and benefits to having a studio.
big Expense
Prior to writing this blog, I did a quick retail space search for Northern New Jersey. A studio space in this area can run you anywhere from $16 - $90 a square foot. That is $24,000 - $135,000 per year for a 1,500 sq ft depending on the location. If you can still make a profit from your photography then get the studio. If that isn’t a route you want to take, you can stick to outdoor portraits, events, on location sessions, or you can rent a studio for the amount of time needed.
Convenience
I went the way of not having a studio. Photographing a newborn session was a task: getting props out of storage, packing the car, going to the client, unpacking and setting up the props, photographing the baby, breaking down, pack the car, and putting props back in storage. Not only is this a pain but it also limits how many sessions I was able to take in a day. With a studio I would hypothetically be able to book a newborn every 3 hours. If I was able to book from 9-5, I could photograph 4 sessions in a day. At $1,000 for my base newborn package, that would be $4,000 in one day (not including editing time). I can leave my props. I can edit with no interruptions.
opportunities for extra income
Depending on your leasing agreement, you more than likely will be able to rent out your studio space when you are not booked, editing, or answering emails. I’ve seen studios charge hourly, half day, and full day rates. You can choose to charge for equipment and props as well. Another opportunity I would throw out there is hosting a Meetup. Meetup gets a percentage of what you charge so make it worth it. Teach a lighting or posing class. Photographers would line up for a pricing class.
Clearly, there are risks that go with a studio. The rewards can outweigh the risks if you have the proper plan, customer service, and photographic skill. Only you know if you are able to put in the work to make your studio a successful one. There are certain corners you can cut. Instead of a retail space, have an in-home studio. When it comes to the business of photography, one can get very creative. So… do you need a studio?
What is Branding Photography?
What is Branding Photography?
Branding photography is the practice of creating and using images to establish and reinforce a business's brand identity. It involves capturing visuals that showcase the values, personality, and uniqueness of a brand. These images are used across various marketing materials, such as websites, social media, advertisements, and brochures, to communicate the essence of the brand to the target audience.
Sure, that’s the book definition, but what does that mean? Think of Nike. It’s a sneaker and sportswear company. The branding photography for Nike, 9 times out of 10, is fit people exercising. Carhartt has blue collar men (and women) working hard at their blue collar job. Apple is sleek. The images focus on the sleek lines of their “high end” products.
Branding photography is important for businesses because it helps to create a strong and memorable brand presence. Visuals are often the first thing that potential customers notice about a brand, and high-quality, cohesive images can make a significant impact on how the brand is perceived. Consistent branding photography helps to build brand recognition, establish credibility, and differentiate a business from its competitors. It also helps to evoke emotions, tell a story, and create a connection with customers, ultimately leading to increased brand loyalty and sales.
In conclusion, hire a professional. Give them your ideas. Someone with experience will know how to turn your ideas to reality. AI isn’t there yet so I would stay away. Once your branding is established it is up to you to give the costumer experience to match your branding. Good luck out there.
is your brand blue collar?
is your brand sheek?
Is your brand collaborative?
Buy Used Camera Gear
Buy Used
I know you see your favorite photographers online with the latest lenses and most expensive camera body and you begin to think that is what you need to be a successful photographer. It’s not! You don’t NEED a Canon R1, 3, or 5 with any L series lens. You NEED to know how to market so you book consistently. You NEED to know you CRM and editing programs front and back. You NEED to know how to pose. If you are starting out, I recommend you buy used. Once you book consistently, the new equipment will pay for itself.
Used
Used Camera Body: Canon 5D Mark IV:
$1,447
Used Camera Lens: Canon 24-70 F/4 L:
$699
Used Strobe: Godox H2400P Flash Head:
$558
Total: $2,704
New
Camera Body: Canon R5 Mirrorless:
$3,399
Camera Lens: Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8 L:
$2399
Strobe: Godox AD400:
$649
Total: $6447
True beginners, don’t spend your money on either columns. Get a base prosumer (pro consumer) camera like a Canon Rebel and learn your camera for under $500. With the money you are saving, go to CREATIVE LIVE and learn posing, Photoshop, Lightroom, and marketing. Then go to SproutStudio so you can start taking clients. It’s a lot at first, but the more you do it, the better you will get. Happy shooting.
Post Session Etiquette
Post Session Etiquette
I went over what to do when you are hunting for a photographer and what to do during your session. Now your session is done and you want you pictures. Here are some dos and don’ts while you wait for them.
Be Patient
Please don’t text your photographer an hour after the session asking if your pictures are done yet. Photographers will tell you ahead of time what their turn around time is. I say two weeks and deliver in a few days. My process is you get a gallery and pick your favorites. I edit them in Photoshop and deliver them to you. Workflow varies photographer to photographers. Ask if they don’t tell you ahead of time.
You’re Not Getting the Raws
Click here to see a film negative. You wouldn’t ask a photographer for their film negative. The RAW file is the equivalent. It is also what comes straight out of the camera. It has all the blemishes and eyesores in the picture that was taken. The photographer edits all that out. This is the simple answer. The intricate answer has to do with copyright, owning the image, and a bunch of legal jargon.
Filters are a Slap In the Face
I thought this went without saying but I have heard horror stories so now I’m saying it. Don’t put filters on your final images. You paid a lot of money for that photographer’s creativity and editing style. No filter looks good and it makes the photographer’s work look bad. It has gotten so bad, we put it in our contracts. No filter and logo must be visible. It’s like going to Ruth Chris Steakhouse and throwing ranch on a porterhouse steak.
The benefits of doing the things I said in Photographer Hunting Etiquette, Photography Session Etiquette, and this blog will foster a great relationship with your photographer. Don’t be surprised if you start receiving emails with deals and appreciation gifts in the mail. Don’t do these things and you might not have your emails or phone calls answered.
Photography Session Etiquette
Photo Session Etiquette
(2/3)
In Photographer Hunting Etiquette I went over what to do when picking a photographer. This blog will go over once you have decided on a photographer. It doesn’t take much to have a successful session. Here are my three suggestions:
Lock It In
Any decent photographer is going to have a contract and a booking fee. Read it, ask questions, and pay the fee. This ensures the date in question is yours. If anyone else is inquiring about that day it will be first come, first serve. Nothing personal to you the client, but photographers have been stood up or ghosted by potential clients. A booking fee ensures you are serious about the session.
Ask Questions
There is nothing wrong with asking your photographers all the questions. A good photographer will already have ways to prep you for the session. If they don’t, here are some questions you may want to ask: what to wear, where can we photograph, what can I bribe my children with for a good session? It is better to be fully prepared than to go into your session wondering, “did I pick the right dress?”
Stick to the Schedule
If you are photographing in a studio or on location for a holiday session, be on time. Photographers often book more than one session a day. For holiday sessions on a Christmas tree farm or a park that requires a permit, there is a time limit. If a photographer books 8 sessions at 20 minute increments, your session is either going to be pushed to the back of the line or you won’t get the full 20 minutes.
If you are wondering why certain photographers are a higher price points, it is because they inform you of these types of issues. They let you know everything to expect so there are no surprises during or after your session. If you do end up with an inexperienced photographers, don’t be shy, ask the tough questions. If you liked these 2 etiquette blogs, check back for part three. I’ll go over post session etiquette.