How To Establish Yourself As A Photography Artist
It’s one thing to practice photography as a hobby, but another to become an established business.
People should learn how to take things one step at a time. Word of mouth and testimonials can help alongside online marketing and advertising.
There are a number of key criteria for anyone taking this career route seriously, and we are going to discuss these now.
Sell Your Photos Online
The internet is a great way of reaching people because it is not limited to one’s local territory. According to the photographers from WP-Modula.com people want to compare the pros and cons of different stock photo sites. Some, such as Adobe Stock, have a huge audience, whilst others, such as Stocksy pay a higher commission rate. Would-be sellers can even upload their best work to several of these sites simultaneously.
Some photographers prefer to self-host their own website and create one suitable for displaying pictures using a template from WordPress. When people are buying your photos from either stock sites or your own website, a passive income can be generated 24/7.
Keep Learning
Most photographers need to become knowledgeable in order to become successful. People should read their entire camera manual instead of dipping into it on occasion. There are online courses in photography and photo editing, and a host of free tutorials on YouTube. Anyone who goes “all-out” and gains a university degree in photography will be empowered to make their business thrive, and hopefully, pick up useful work contacts along the way.
It’s also valuable to step outside of one’s comfort zone and to try different photography, such as using a drone or doing nature photography abroad.
Own Professional Equipment
Once a person has purchased a camera, the lenses will become the next major investment. They can open up doors to more specialized photography such as the ability to do group shots using a wide-angle lens. Photographers may also need a tripod, lights, diffusers, softboxes, and the like. It’s essential to bring enough memory cards or power packs on a photoshoot. Anyone who falls at these hurdles could risk disaster.
People can choose free photo editing software, particularly at the beginning. Over time a photographer may be able to invest in such top software as Photoshop or Adobe Lightroom. This will have so many functions and options it will take a lot of learning. Having said that, anything that will enhance the visual quality of your photos will be of huge benefit. Imagine rescuing a low-light shot or improving someone’s flesh tones, or even supplying a black and white photo for added effect.
Treat Customers Well
If someone has chosen you for their wedding photography, why not do a free photoshoot beforehand. This will help build relationships and make them relaxed in front of the camera. In the weeks that follow, why not send some wedding preparation emails. The clients will feel that you are working for them 24/7.
In order for a customer to make a recommendation or provide a testimonial, they will need to have received excellent customer service. This includes prompt responses to their email inquiries and excellent punctuality at appointments.
Advertising and Marketing
Someone can provide regular quality posts that are highly engaging, through blogging or on social media. Top photos can be showcased, and links are provided to the company website with its sales pages.
YouTube is another avenue that can attract customers. Why not provide regular tutorials containing free material? Enhance the video title and description from a Search Engine Optimisation angle – making it rich in the search words people are using on Google. Once more, include the business web page link.
Once customer email addresses have been gained, use them in future marketing campaigns. Perhaps a couple who were married is now interested in your baby photography service.
Business cards should always be at hand because one never knows when they’ll be needed. If a photographer’s card is not impressive visually, this will not be a good advert for your services!
Practice Networking
Photography is like dancing or acting: in the early days, people provide free work to showcase their material and to build up a portfolio.
A photography event may or may not particularly appeal, but it is wise to attend because of the contacts that may be made there. Social media forums and groups (such as on Facebook) can provide free connections to others who are more experienced, or who may become interested in your goods and services.
When all these bases are covered, the stage can be set for future growth and prosperity. Wisely manage the income to allow for quiet months, and always be looking to improve.
