You Can’t Rush Experience

[by Paul Bartholomew]

I often get emails and calls about my work from emerging photographers. I’m always open to sharing what I know and feel it helps educate those who may affect the future of our profession.

Some of the most asked questions are about the camera or lens I use and if I use some special technique in Photoshop. Some think that buying the same equipment will achieve the same results.  These are just plain technical questions that are easy to address because they tend to have straightforward answers. However, I can talk all I want about techie stuff but it all comes down to experience and the intangible aspects of what a photographer does to get the results.

So what are the intangibles? Intuition, creativity and sensitivity to the subject come to mind. This all takes time and requires dedication and talent to nurture.  My advice for those starting out is to ask questions no matter how simple or odd they seem.  Finding a mentor who is comfortable and open will help you find the right path.  Even after 13 years in business I’m still finding new mentors.  We all have our own personal journey but we often need some company along the way.

Paul S. Bartholomew is an architectural photographer based in the Philadelphia & New York region. His work can be seen at www.psbphotography.com

Exploring New Features

[by Paul Bartholomew]

Have you ever worked in Photoshop and see a feature you’re unfamiliar with? Look it up and see what it’s about. It may become very important to your work. Don’t have time to look things up? Write it down for when you do.

Paul S. Bartholomew is an architectural photographer based in the Philadelphia & New York region. His work can be seen at www.psbphotography.com

Keyboard Shortcuts

[by Paul Bartholomew]

Shortcuts can add up and save a lot of time. Try memorizing keyboard shortcuts to your most used tasks or tools. Keep a list on your desk for reference and you will soon catch on. Once it becomes intuitive your work will move much more efficiently than clicking around.

Paul S. Bartholomew is an architectural photographer based in the Philadelphia & New York region. His work can be seen at www.psbphotography.com

Creating A Greater Divide

[by Paul Bartholomew]

We live in a highly saturated world of images and as photographers our profession is rapidly changing and at risk if we don’t adapt. I hear a lot about photographers losing projects because an amateur or new photographer was “good enough” and got the job. Some blame it on digital technology, but haven’t we dealt with this problem before? The equipment changed but we always have amateurs trying to get work because we have a desirable profession.

Does digital make the amateur a better photographer? I’d say true to a certain extent but there are limitations such as the need for natural talent, dedication and passion. These are things that filter some people out of the profession but some may still linger and we get that gray area that borders “good enough”.

The amateur may have climbed up the ladder closer to the professional, but what happened to the professionals? Instead of occupying valuable time by yelling down the ladder at the person catching up, perhaps it’s a good idea to motivate and start climbing too.

Stay out of the gray area and create a greater divide. Digital improved the amateur, so it should have improved the professional too. Instead of thinking how technology makes work easier, think about how it can make our work better. Research high quality photographers and do personal work that helps you evolve. Experiment and push the limits. If you feel uncomfortable and uneasy, then congratulations you’re making progress!

Paul S. Bartholomew is an architectural photographer based in the Philadelphia & New York region. His work can be seen at www.psbphotography.com

Organizing Emails

[by Paul Barholomew]

Try organizing emails by creating folders that sort by keywords. An example is a folder setup to contain emails with the keyword “ASMP”. Reading through emails will be easier, especially if you subscribe to multiple forums. On Mac this can be setup in your mail preferences under “Rules”.

Paul S. Bartholomew is an architectural photographer based in the Philadelphia & New York region. His work can be seen at www.psbphotography.com

Marketing Doesn’t Take a Vacation

[by Paul Bartholomew]

Where is your marketing going this summer? Is it going on a nice long vacation? When do you think it will be back? I hope it doesn’t have a vacation home somewhere in the South of France. You can, but your marketing shouldn’t.

Your marketing should be consistent. People can get caught up thinking no one is listening or receiving the message because too many prospects are out of the office during the Summer. It’s true, but they don’t all go on vacation at the same time. Your marketing will find an audience and it may be a favorable time. It may be a time when your prospects can actually meet with you. They may not have work yet but the idea is to have them thinking about you when it’s time again. You marketing effort may not get as many responses certain times of year but people are there and listening.

Do you plan on having any vacation time? Here are some ideas to keep your marketing rolling even if you’re not around. Emails can be setup long ahead of time. I usually work 2 weeks ahead but if I have projects or events happening that may interrupt, I may work earlier on my next campaign and have it scheduled during the time I’m not around.  Postcards can be done in a similar way if you’re using a mailing service. Many postcard printers offer mailing services and can schedule not just one mailing but many to go out on specified dates.

Think about working on a marketing buffer and try to be ahead by a couple mailings at all times; at least have the design work ready. This way if you change your mind later on about a marketing piece you can swap it out before going to print.

No matter what, keep to your schedule.  If you allow your marketing to take time off, you might be feeling the effects sooner than you think and have more free time for yourself than you’d planned!

ASMP Specialty Groups

[by Paul Bartholomew]

The specialty group forums and resources are a great benefit for ASMP members. Ask those who participate and you will find it’s a great resource that helps many of us with unique questions and issues within our specialties. Groups currently include architecture, food and fine art. See for yourself but remember to participate to get the most out of it. Check out the ASMP website for details.

Reaching Out

[by Paul Barholomew]

Do you have any questions about business practices, techniques or fees? Try reaching out to other photographers within your specialty. If you feel uneasy about contacting your local competition then contact someone in another region. ASMP members find that communicating with others is a great benefit and it’s valuable to your growth!

What Is Your Leverage?

[by Paul Barholomew]

We can be cheap, we can be talented and we can offer something unique. These are just a few examples from a long list of features and abilities we can offer to our clients.

Ask yourself, how do you wish to sell your services and how will you be portrayed? What makes you and your photography stand out from the rest? Think about the long and short term consequences of how you get leverage. Find your strong points and use them to your advantage.

Your leverage will increase as you become more experienced and nurture your abilities. You will find ways within your style and business practices to set yourself apart from the competition and become increasingly valuable. This won’t be overnight success but it will be success for those who are dedicated and talented enough. Now and always is a good time to evaluate and reevaluate your leverage.

One Project and Three Interpretations

[by Paul Bartholomew]

We deal with all kinds of potential clients and some give more information than others when it comes to projects they have in mind. We have the highly organized person who provides layouts, usage, digital specs and all sorts of very helpful information.  Then we have the person who calls and asks for your fees without giving much info at all.

Most of my experiences tend to be somewhat in between the two situations and I have noticed some interesting things based on what is provided and what I had to ask for. But what about the other photographers involved with the estimate?  What kind of questions are they asking and are they being told the same details?  Maybe, but don’t count on it.  The possibility of three photographers sending an estimate for the same project and coming up with different interpretations isn’t uncommon. We may actually be sending estimates for three different projects.

What can we do to minimize these situations and help ensure everyone in the process is getting the same specs?  Communication.  Ask about the other photographers involved and see what they may have asked about.  Be honest and say that you wish to provide an estimate based on the same information provided to others.  It’s only reasonable to ask such a question.  I’m an architectural photographer so I ask for a shot list, details about special features, usage and snapshots.  I also ask for a copy of the plans and any descriptions or presentation materials they may have about the project.  I’m also sure to check out the client’s website to see the level of work they commissioned in the past.  Learn about the client’s work and their marketing needs and direction.  The more you can gather the better off you will be, but try your best to get the same info as your competition.  We can’t assume.

Once the estimate/bid is sent be sure to follow-up and see what the situation is.  You still have room to negotiate and make adjustments if needed.  If the client likes your work they will try to make the project happen.  Being active and asking questions can only help the situation and show your professionalism.

Equipment Backups

[by Paul Bartholomew]

It kind of goes without saying that having a backup camera is very important. The chances are high that you will eventually run into equipment malfunctions. Try to have a plan B in place. Did you think about a backup tripod? If your work is mostly accomplished on a tripod, everything will come to a halt if a little item such as a lock decides to break. Think through your equipment and be prepared for the smaller items too.

Save Time Getting Paid

[by Paul Bartholomew]

Sometimes an invoice payment is delayed because a W-9 form may be required by the client.  Whenever working with new clients you can send a filled out W-9 form along with the invoice or you can check with their accounts payable if one is required. This can also reduce the hassle of last minute requests at the end of the year.

Taking A Personal Day

[by Paul Bartholomew]

I tend to feel guilty on non-shoot days if I’m not in the studio working on something.  Maybe I’m afraid of missing that important call or email, but then again that’s what an iPhone is for isn’t it?  On the other hand, maybe I’m missing the point if I’m not concentrating on my personal work and checking my messages all the time?  Probably.

So how can a photographer finally put time aside and forget about business for a short while?  I think it comes down to just doing it and getting used to it.  Set time aside in your schedule and try to stick to it.  If a photo shoot comes up then reschedule your personal day but don’t cancel it.  You don’t need an agenda and it doesn’t have to be related to your professional work.  Perhaps you may want to pursue another specialty or work with video?

My personal days have been about food photography yet most people know that I’m an architectural photographer.  I find it as a nice balance and different way of thinking.  It’s refreshing and keeps me in touch with my passion for the culinary arts.  What would you like to pursue as personal work?  Don’t worry if you don’t know yet because these things take time.  The important thing is starting somewhere and finding your way.

Investing In Efficiency

[by Paul Bartholomew]

Most of us try to cut back on expenses, but when does it affect our productivity and time? We often decide on the bigger monitor, the faster computer, the better camera and the list goes on.  Sure, this all costs money but think positively about the investment if it saves you time.

Your time is valuable and it’s important to free yourself as much as possible. I thought about this a lot over the past year. Besides equipment upgrades, I no longer manage my own website and my marketing is now handled by someone who is more knowledgably and efficient. Does this cost me extra money? At first, but it becomes profitable rather quickly and I can concentrate on being a photographer.

It is Quick Tip Week …

[by Paul Bartholomew]

With so many online accounts these days we become very vulnerable to hackers. I had my blog hacked this past year and decided on an easy solution. I created a much longer password that’s easy to remember by combining two passwords together. So far it’s been working.

Make It Your Own

[by Paul Bartholomew]

I think most photographers struggle with direction and style from time to time especially when starting out. It’s a never ending process, at least in my opinion because I think artists are constantly striving and moving in different directions. This constant striving is very fluid, you may try to predict where you’ll be 10 years from now but if you hold on to that idea in your head too much, it may also hold you back.

What do I mean by being held back? Sometimes we tend to get tunnel vision as we become inspired. This is fine and it’s good to experiment with new styles but also take that influence and make it your own. I guess it’s a part of evolving, but what I’m trying get at is developing your own style and not trying to replicate someone else’s style. I’m constantly looking at the work of photographers from the past and present. Of course I have my favorite photographers and gravitate toward them but I also try to find more. Other incredible influences may come from many kinds of artists such as master painters from all kinds of styles. A trip to an art museum once in a while will help and also buying books. I’m an addict when it comes to books and I tend to have them all over the place because I’m always looking through them for ideas.

We are a product of all artists before us. We take influences and integrate them into our own work. Making mistakes and going through the pains are part of growing. Making mistakes shouldn’t be thought of as negative but a part of progression. If you think of it, not making mistakes may be worse because you may not be pushing your limits enough. Perhaps staying in the safe zone.

Just some thoughts.

Dealing With Security

[by Paul Bartholomew]

This is one of those situations you can never be too prepared for. I often do commercial architectural photography projects that involve public locations. Security or police may be notified or notice photography going on and may become suspicious. People tend to feel uneasy when someone is photographing certain areas. I wish I had an answer to why but it depends on the situation.

Here is my advice to help make things less painful. First of all be prepared. I always have my client’s name on hand with contact info. A letter from the client also helps but none of this matters if your client or you didn’t notify the proper people for permission. Have this permission info on hand and ready to reach for.

Prevention is key. When I photograph a building in New York that is owned by a certain company I try to stop by the front desk and let them know who I am. Don’t be surprised if stopped by other security people even though you cleared things upon arrival. Not everyone gets the memo.

Here is another very important point. Security and police are just doing their job so don’t over react and act outraged. This is sure way to end up with problems. When you see security approaching don’t try to avoid them or give them a nasty look. Try to give a smile and have your info ready. I mention who my client is and why I’m photographing the location. Of course mention right away that you have permission.

Normally I have to give my name and info related to the project. This may take 5 minutes of your time unless security wants to call the people you mention. Usually a report or note has to be filed and that’s it.

Like I said earlier, just have a positive attitude and usually things go fine. Of course I can’t be 100% on this because you never know but be prepared and that’s all you can do.

Your Blog As A Client Resource

[By Paul S. Bartholomew]

Blogs are a great extension to a website. They keep people updated on recent activities and are a great way to bring up some constructive discussion. Another great way to use a blog is to educate and inform.

For me it comes down to the topic of the week and what’s on my mind. If I have a great photo shoot or personal project, I may share some images and talk about the challenges involved. If I run into an interesting situation that catches my attention, I may post an informative topic that can be used as a resource. Not just for other photographers but also to clients.

I had a nice conversation with not just one but two clients this past week. Both enjoy reading my blog and seeing what I’m up to. One client found my informative topics interesting and said he reads them during his lunch break.

Placing a blog link on your website is one of the usual ways to drive clients your site, but what about using it as a resource? I occasionally post topics that are inspired by client interactions. A common question I’m asked is about post-production fees, so I created a blog post explaining the process along with images for examples. Not only does this reinforce the explanation but it also attracts future visits for other topics. It’s a great way to keep your name in mind.

Quick Tip for Creativity

[by Paul Bartholomew]

Most of us heard about getting outside opinions when it comes to our portfolios. What about our creative ideas and notes we keep? Try finding a creative partner to share your ideas. You never know what someone else can bring to the table and perhaps you can help them too.

A Personal Presence – Taking the Extra Step

[by Paul Bartholomew]

Photographers are always are thinking about ways to get that extra edge. Sometimes it’s difficult to seal the deal especially during slower times.

Think about the process you go through when a potential client contacts you. What can you do to get that edge and be remembered? How about setting up a face to face meeting with the client? In many cases we don’t get a chance to see the client early during the selection process. Taking time to meet shows that you’re a professional and take the project seriously. This can reinforce confidence in your abilities and understanding of the project. Best of all, the potential client will have a face to remember.

Of course people don’t always have time to meet but it’s something to offer that demonstrates your enthusiasm. If the meeting isn’t possible, think through the project to develop more questions and email for a convenient time to call. Once again this shows how much you care about the project. Asking questions will show that you’re engaging in the creative process and that you’re not just throwing an estimate out there.

I’m sure there are many other ways of taking that extra step and I look forward to hearing some ideas. Send some comments!

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