subject: Grow Your Photography Business [print this page] Working as a photographer is a great and rewarding job, but it can be hard to startup and grow your business. Because so many of our canvas printing clients are professional (or striving to be) photographers, we have put together these great tips on how you can grow and improve your photography business - and help you establish yourself in the art scene.
Connect With Other Photographers
Connections are all important in business, and photography is no different. But don't worry if you don't have contacts already. You can build relationships with local photographers by contacting them and offering to be a backup second shooter if they are overbooked and need a hand (a great starting point for newbies). You can also join Facebook groups, online communities and more, as a way of connecting and associating with professional photographers.
Letting Your Customers Know You're There
There are many ways to connect with potential and previous customers. Make sure you use a combination of marketing tools; including having a website with a portfolio of your work, a social media page and business cards. Depending on the size and budget of your business you may also want to consider having a studio that clients can visit.
Offering extras or discounts on photography packages is a great way to get people connecting with you on social media, and sharing your page!
Showcase Your Work
Printing your photos on canvas can have several benefits for your business. If you have a studio and would like to display examples of you work on the walls, canvas printing highlights the fine quality of your work and draws the potential clients eye to your skill, before you even open your portfolio.
You can also print your client's photos to canvas for them, adding to your potential profit margin. If you prefer to work in more artistic photography, you may even be able to exhibit your canvas printed photos in a local gallery. Talk to libraries and other public buildings - they often have minor exhibitions on their walls.
Know Your Area
Knowing your area is key in establishing yourself as a great local photographer. Find great spots to take photos in the surrounding neighbourhoods - so that you have a clear and confident direction if your client asks you for ideas on where to shoot.
You should also try to have examples in your portfolio of shots from local areas so people are likely to see a place they love too! Talk to local businesses about taking great nearby location shots for their walls, it's a wonderful way to market yourself locally.
