Per Image Pricing for Events

[by Rosh Sillars]

I’m a big fan of per-image pricing. I use it most for events in the retail environment.  This is especially true for the rare one or two corporate client weddings I photograph each year.

I’ve discovered that people’s budgets are often bigger than what they reveal to me or even what they originally envisioned.  Per-image pricing allows me to offer good clients a fair option without feeling like they’re taking advantage of me.

I begin by requesting a non-refundable down payment to save the date.  The payment is credited toward the first images they purchase.  For retail events, the per-image rate is much lower than commercial rates due to the volume and the personal-use license.

Once I’ve edited my images, I upload them to Photoshelter with the option to download each image at the agreed-upon rate.  I still offer prints through the system, but the smallest size available is 4×6 at the same rate as the original file download.

Is there a risk? Absolutely. Fortunately, I have found when I work hard and present creative images to my clients, they’re happy and I receive a monetary reward.

Rosh Sillars is the co-author of “The Linked Photographer.”  View his people photography at http://people.roshsillars.com

Editorial Photography is as Important as Ever

[by Rosh Sillars]

No matter how the future of journalism shakes out, the need to tell stories with photographs will always be a part of the picture.

At some point, the traditional media we have known all our lives will cease to exist. In the future, companies will be their own media outlets, depending more upon professionals to share their stories. Photographers who position themselves well will be able to take advantage of this opportunity.

The Web is a visual place.  News, sports and editorial websites will continue to demand fresh content and imagery.  Photographers are beginning to develop relationships with these new media outlets. Although most online channels are not mass media companies, they have opportunities for photographers as more are beginning to value good photography. The quality of e-paper-based technologies will continue to improve and the demand for creative, high-quality images will increase.

Don’t forget about video.  The new cameras now include video, which is an excellent support to help us share the stories we are hired to tell.

Rosh Sillars is a veteran photographer. He is the host of the New Media Photographer podcast and co-author of the book, “The Linked Photographer.”

Marketing on a Budget

[by Rosh Sillars]

If you don’t have money for marketing, the next best thing is investing your time. This is not a bad thing. Most photographers will tell you referrals are one of their best sources of business.

Attend free and low-cost local events. Check the local listings for chamber of commerce, advertising club, and trade organization events. Get out there and shake hands, but don’t go empty-handed.

If cost is an issue, design a 4×6 portfolio photo card, which can be printed inexpensively. Tailor the cards specifically for the event. In other words, focus your work on the type of people attending the event rather than presenting your whole portfolio.

First, hand people your card and give a short elevator pitch, which is who you are, what your specialty is, and how they would benefit from using your service.

Next, listen. Then, ask questions about them. Find out who they know who could use your service. Listen some more. The more you let people talk, the more they will like you. You will be amazed at the opportunities that come your way just by asking questions and really listening to the answers.

Take the time to follow up. Send an “it was nice to meet you” card, or if someone offers you tip, lead or suggestion, send a thank you note. These gestures are some of the most powerful, low-cost marketing tools on the planet.

Rosh Sillars is a professional photographer, the co-author of the book Linked photographer, consultant, university instructor and host of newmediaphotographer.com

Social Media

[by Rosh Sillars]

Imagine it is 1995. You are sitting across from a prospect with your portfolio laid out. She flips through the pages of your book and stops at one of your beautiful images. “Wow!” she says. “This is an incredible photograph.”

At this point, she might call a few people to her office to see your work. Chances are, they will not be available. Imagine if she could have pushed a button and sent a copy of that incredible picture along with a big endorsement to all her friends in her business and beyond? In 1995, that button wasn’t available.

Of course, as you leave her office you bump into a familiar face. It’s one of the many photographers you know who is also presenting work that day. The next question you ask yourself is how do you follow up on a regular basis without being a pest?

What about the clients that disappeared, lost their jobs or moved? Where did they go? How could you keep in touch for future opportunities?

What about competing with the photographers on the coasts who always seem to know the latest styles and equipment in 1995? Wouldn’t it be nice to have access to that information without waiting months for the photography magazines to publish? How about easily accessible, in-depth how-to information from the top professionals — anytime or place – with the option to ask follow-up questions?

What about the ability to share your images around the world without a large marketing budget, or the power to monitor the local or international markets for people in need of your service? None of this was possible in 1995.

This is 2010 and what I’ve described is what social media does for individuals and businesses. The magic buttons for people to share your portfolio with all their friends is available. The ability to have buyers subscribe to your latest images, purchase select images at 3:00 a.m. at your price or view your photographs passively at their leisure is a reality. Access to the newest information and the world is here.

Are these stupid and a waste of time?

Rosh Sillars is a media and corporate photographer, host of www.newmediaphotographer.com and co-author of the book Linked Photographer.

The Best Way to Compete with Amateurs is… Don’t!

[by Rosh Sillars]

Trying to compete with someone whose purpose is to make a little extra money on the side without the overhead of a professional business is not realistic. It is a quick path to business failure.

Technology has set the bar lower then ever for entering the field of photography as a hobby, part-time job or career. The mystery of the photographers’ black box has been made simple and easy for anyone to use. The best way to build a career in photography today is create new mystery and magic that cannot be easily replicated.

Today’s professional photographer must set himself apart from the pack by offering advanced style, unique concepts, and an incredible photographic experience.

It’s easier said than done. Professional photographers cannot market solely on 20 years of business experience, great service and a portfolio of famous clients. If people don’t see the magic in your portfolio, they will be unwilling to pay the premium price you deserve.

Rosh Sillars is a media and corporate photographer, host of www.newmediaphotographer.com and co-author of the book Linked Photographer.

« Older Entries