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!

Resurrect Your Blog

[By Paul S. Bartholomew]

Did you jump on the blog bandwagon and fall off? So many blogs are out there and some are getting stale. Consider keeping a regular schedule for updates such as weekly or monthly. Whatever you do, get to it! It not a good thing when someone visits your blog with the most recent post dated 6 months ago. What incentive do they have to revisit?

Don’t Be A Spectator Be Social

[By Paul Bartholomew]

Social media is the hot topic lately. Some think it’s great and some think it wastes valuable time. Yes, it can be both and it may not be for everyone. However, don’t expect the world to come right to you without some dedication on your end. It won’t work if it’s not routine and it won’t work if you don’t push yourself a little into trying new things.

So many social media sites out there and so little time. First of all, don’t try to jump into every single one. I suggest gradually checking them out and getting a feel for what you like best. I have my favorite sites, but it took me a while to feel comfortable with the daily routine and this new way of communicating.

Daily routine? Communicating? You mean we have to actually do something? The word social is in there for a reason and we have to remember that this is all about a new way of interacting with people. Text, video, audio and images all come into play and best of all we are communicating internationally. It’s the new version of pen pals but on a much higher and complex level.

You may want to be a spectator and just observe and that’s fine at first, but how will people take notice of what you do? If your intent is to promote then get out there and mingle! Share ideas, your photography and whatever else you have to say. There is an audience for everyone but you need to get yourself out into the social media world. This may be your best investment in a long while.

Following Through

We tend to put great effort into our marketing and trying to get new clients, but what about after the photo shoot? How are you presenting the final images? Think about what the packaging and presentation look like and follow through with your branding. It’s another opportunity to make a great and lasting impression.

Optimization Vs. Presentation

This is one of those difficult decisions when designing a new website. You want your work to look it’s best and be presented in an impressive manner, but you also want your work to be found through search engines.

Wouldn’t it be nice to have both? Unfortunately in many cases a compromise may be required. Many different techniques are used for top search engine rankings but it often involves tactics that may take away from the presentation aspect.

Here is something I’ve started to do that may be a solution for some. I was working on search engine optimization and tweaking my website for many years. Eventually, my website listed first page in the major search engines for most keywords I desired and it definitely brought in work. As my business grew, I decided it was time to go after high-end clients. Designing a nice clean look that would attract the high-end clients would be difficult.

My big concern was about losing search engine rankings if I switched to a different layout. It’s kind of scary if it means a loss in business. The solution was to have two websites, one web optimized version and one presentation optimized version with very little text for a clean look and bigger images. The web optimized site isn’t advertised and just floats out there for people to find on the internet. The nicer looking website is the only site I advertise and people will find it directly through email campaigns, directories and postcards.

We are hearing more about photographers segmenting their portfolios and websites according to specialties, so why not have multiple sites based on optimization and presentation?

My Sketchbook

When studying fine arts in college my professors always emphasized the importance of carrying a sketchbook at all times. Ideas can pop up randomly when I least expect them, so to keep them from escaping me, I need to get them captured somehow before forgetting. The best part about a sketchbook is that I can brainstorm and revise whenever the creative moment hits me again. I always have some kind of idea in progress and my sketchbook helps me keep them going.

Twitter – A New Way Of Sharing Ideas and Your Work

Twitter has grabbed a lot of attention recently and many of you may have tried it out. Some may just roll their eyes when someone even mentions the word Twitter or some may just be overwhelmed with such a means of communication that requires 140 characters or less. I admit that I was bit hesitant at first but after an investment of time and learning the lingo it has become a great way to exchange ideas and bring attention to my own work.

Before going into this more I should point something out. I hear people saying they really don’t want to know about who had what for lunch or about some random everyday task. Yes we have people who use Twitter for that purpose and it’s your choice to follow them or not. Twitter is what you make of it. Some people use it for personal reasons and some use it for professional. I like to use it for directing people to my work but I also like to show my personal side within limits. Just as anything else put out there for the public to see, you want to be careful about the message you’re sending and have a purpose.

So how can you promote your work and share ideas? As mentioned in other posts, don’t be a salesperson or sound like a spammer because you will be treated as such. Actually don’t sell at all. My experience with Twitter has been to share information and post links of educational materials and images related to my profession. Every time I have a new blog post or project to share it gets mentioned. Within a short while I’ll get responses not only on Twitter but also comments on my blog.  This is an interaction so I also try to comment to people who have something to share.  I find that when you show an interest in certain people, they will pay more attention to you too and often spread the word about you.

Where do you find followers? Start by following interesting people and hope they follow you back. This is my criteria for people I follow. Either they are someone who may be interested in my work and/or they are someone who has something interesting to offer.

My advice is to check out people who do this well and learn from them. I see a lot of great photographers on Twitter and they all have something in common – they all have something interesting to share and they are all very active.