Has anyone thought of a clever way to get email address from all guests @ reception?

[Adaptive]

Curious to see what people have done?

I have been thinking of ways to collect this information for marketing purposes.

Maybe like a drawing or something that the bride/groom could do for a prize, sponsored by the photographer, but that may be too tacky/tasteless.. trying to find something that is low key and not obvious.

Any suggestions, besides handing out cards or whatever telling people to go to your website and see slideshow and pictures is one way. But for this technique people have to actually remember to go to your site, and think about it and it's too much effort for a lot of people. People are lazy these days and like to have stuff delivered to them.

Lets chat! Wedding networking biz tips :p

[iTakeFauxToes]

I dunno, I personally would have a difficult time turning someone else's wedding into my own marketing opportunity. I can't imagine a couple agreeing to a raffle!!

[jimmyb_2]

agreed , i'm tired of advertising and selling EVERYWHERE. if they need a photographer, they will see the wedding pics, and say i liked those who took them. i just got married, everyone loved the pics, everyone asked who it was. just rely on word of mouth, it is very powerful.

[cdifoto]

Dude. It's a wedding, not a carnival.

Just hand out your cards to the guests while they're eating (no one likes to be photographed at that time anyway) and if they like you they'll check you out. The cards I hand out have the couple's proof gallery url on them so they can see something familiar and complete (sequentially, not necessarily processed).

[Adaptive]

I dunno, I personally would have a difficult time turning someone else's wedding into my own marketing opportunity. I can't imagine a couple agreeing to a raffle!!




Was not suggesting trying to start a raffel at a wedding. Just using it as an example technique used to get peoples email addresses.






agreed , i'm tired of advertising and selling EVERYWHERE. if they need a photographer, they will see the wedding pics, and say i liked those who took them. i just got married, everyone loved the pics, everyone asked who it was. just rely on word of mouth, it is very powerful.


Yes pay thousands to advertise in a magazine or pay a couple hundred to give some high impact direct marketing to people who you've already got their attention. Drill your brand into their minds with weekly/monthly newsletters, specials, featured blog articles, etc.. People will eat that stuff up! And the best thing is you don't have to pay out the butt to be put in a pool with 30 other photographers paying $2,000 per page to advertise in a magazine. True the magazine hits more people, but direct marketing is smaller scale and higher impact. Ideally you want to use the magazine route but the direct marketing is still good way to make lots of bookings/sales. Not just for weddings but portraits/commercial etc...




Dude. It's a wedding, not a carnival.

Just hand out your cards to the guests while they're eating (no one likes to be photographed at that time anyway) and if they like you they'll check you out. The cards I hand out have the couple's proof gallery url on them so they can see something familiar and complete (sequentially, not necessarily processed).


LOL :lol:
wow you guys really think I'm suggesting brides and grooms to start a raffle in the middle of their wedding...
god i was just using it as an example, I change the words a bit to make it more clear hopefully. jeez, I bet 10 more people are going to say a raffle is a bad idea... just watch... :rolleyes: read people read!!!
I already said I'm looking for ideas other than the card thing.. reading comprehension much? :lol:

[_Jo_]

I would never 'market' myself at a wedding I was paid photographer for. More then likely most of the guests will see the end result and judge my work for themselves.

It would feel wrong and I doubt the B&G would appreciate me running around trying to drum up business when my sole purpose there is to capture their day.

[_Jo_]

Always have cards on hand in your BAG and if the moment presents itself you have them there on hand. That's "if'.

[Adaptive]

I would never 'market' myself at a wedding I was paid photographer for. More then likely most of the guests will see the end result and judge my work for themselves.

It would feel wrong and I doubt the B&G would appreciate me running around trying to drum up business when my sole purpose there is to capture their day.




Yes running around trying to market yourself at a job your are being paid to do is not a good idea. AHEM... DID YOU READ THIS PART OF THE ORIGINAL POST?

trying to find something that is low key and not obvious.

[Adaptive]

Always have cards on hand in your BAG and if the moment presents itself you have them there on hand. That's "if'.


Oh god did you read my first post at all?

where's my gun.. :rolleyes:

[_Jo_]

Pardon my intrusion.

As you were.

[cdifoto]

I reinforced the card idea because it's about as low key as you can get, since you're talking to people one on one or one on 5 at the most.

[Adaptive]

I reinforced the card idea because it's about as low key as you can get, since you're talking to people one on one or one on 5 at the most.

I have the card thing down, and I even took it up a notch to increase effectiveness.
Yes the card thing works but I want to supercharge the process by getting the contact information for everyone at the reception not just 30-50%.

But I want it to be the other way around where I get THEIR information.
I know there has got to be a way, and when it's figured out it will be the next big thing I just know it.

[cdifoto]

How did you take it up a notch? Inquiring minds want to know. :D

I suppose you could get their email via your own guest register. Not sure how that could be implemented though. People would probably skip it if they already signed one book for the couple...especially when they know you want their information for the sole purpose of selling them something.

[_Jo_]

Sorry - but it smacks of desperation and in my opinion looks unprofessional.

(couldn't help myself) :)

[S-S]

Dude. It's a wedding, not a carnival.

Just hand out your cards to the guests while they're eating (no one likes to be photographed at that time anyway) and if they like you they'll check you out. The cards I hand out have the couple's proof gallery url on them so they can see something familiar and complete (sequentially, not necessarily processed).

i concur - but prolly wouldnt bother people while they were eating - and usually i do end up shooting during that time

when ive been a guest at a wedding the last thing i would have wanted is to have anyone quizzing me for my details while im enjoying the experience with my friends/family

but i would totally appreciate someone letting me know that if i wanted to, i can access the photo gallery if i pick up a card - that is something helpful & relevant

[FlyingPhotog]

Have you considered using these?
http://ultraorange.net/media/2007/11/weird-futurama-brain-slug-man.gif

[cdifoto]

I haven't come across anyone who was visibly annoyed by my approach. It's a big party and they're usually tipsy by that point so foul moods are extremely rare. I don't collect information though. I just hand out the cards, flash my smile, and tell 'em when the pics should be available for viewing. 15 seconds or less unless they want to chat, then I move onto the next table.

Most of the time such action is actually welcomed, because they'd otherwise have to pester the couple for the information that I'm providing on their behalf. The couples love it because they don't have to be pestered. I always over-order cards as well, and give the remainder to the couple so they can pass them out to anyone who wasn't able to make it.

By the time I get around to tables (I eat too!), most everyone is at least halfway through their meal...so the interruption isn't much of an interruption. I'm basically table-hopping just like the Bride & Groom are, except I get an earlier start because I eat faster.

[Pete]

Dude. It's a wedding, not a carnival.

Just hand out your cards to the guests while they're eating (no one likes to be photographed at that time anyway) and if they like you they'll check you out. The cards I hand out have the couple's proof gallery url on them so they can see something familiar and complete (sequentially, not necessarily processed).

I agree with this. No one likes a salesman who pushes their trade at you, especially at a wedding. People are there to enjoy themselves, not tender for trade.

Spread the word with your business card and tell them only that the guest gallery will be online in x weeks. Let your photos and your politeness sell your business.

People may even object to be handed cards at a wedding, so an idea may be to leave a pile on the present table or near the bar.

[letsmakeart]

It's a ****ing wedding, if you do a good enough job with the photos they'll be sending them to everyone blabbering on about them for weeks.

You'd have to be a complete wanker to even SUGGEST the idea of having a raffle at a wedding. Classy!

[picturecrazy]

Yes, I believe the best way to market yourself at a wedding is to do a super kickass job, be very polite and respectful to everyone there, look like you're having tons of fun, and get the bridal party all jazzed up about you that THEY take it upon themselves to market FOR you after the fact. I believe that way is far more effective, and far less obtrusive.

One thing that is becoming popular now is to make a slideshow of the wedding day during the reception. I take about 50-75 pictures from the day that well represents the happenings of the wedding from morning to reception, then I do a super quick and dirty process on them, and throw my laptop in a corner looping the slideshow after the dance starts. I put cards beside the computer, so only people who are interested watch the slideshow, only people who are interested take the cards, and people who are not interested are not bothered at all... it really hits your targets well. I don't hand out cards... I let people take them if they want 'em.

It's worked well. I'd say over half my bookings each year come from referrals from other weddings. Many approach me via email me saying something like, "I saw your slideshow at dick and jane's wedding and was blown away!"

It's like when I was in the sales industry, I was always told, "Don't try to SELL!! Just let people BUY!"

[zagiace]

There is absolutely nothing wrong with creative marketing.
Engagement shots of the couple with your website information and a note telling them to view the wedding online is probably the best way. Be sure to market your other services on the site they are directed to. Don't just send them to a smugmug or similar.
Selling the couple thank you cards with your logo on the back is another way to get your information to the couples friends and family.

I do not recommend this but, in the beginning of my career I once had a photographer friend who I helped that would set up a background and lights at a reception and sell family portraits... lol- now that was tacky.

[Adaptive]

Haha here we go again with the cards...
Read the first post your illiterate dolts... wow... you guys really can't read.
CARDS... BEATING DEAD HORSE.... LETS MOVE ON TO SOMETHING ELSE MORE CREATIVE.....

I have the Card thing DOWN prefectly, there's nothing with cards that I am not already doing. I'm already getting great referrals from weddings and such. I'm not suffering in the wedding market by any means. I actually have too much equipment and am selling some to help purchase a toyota supra... And weddings is all I do.. TOYOTA SUPRA.. Thanks for the photo 101 tips guys, i think most of us have all been doing the table cards thing for years now, i know i've been doing it for at least 3 years... Now lets move on.......... Open those minds jeez

I'm just trying to reach the stragglers that aren't interested in photography and create some excitement for them.... UNOBTRUSIVELY.....

[cdifoto]

Haha here we go again with the cards... Read the first post your illiterate dolts... wow... you guys really can't read.

I have the Card thing DOWN prefectly, there's nothing with cards that I am not already doing. I'm already getting great referrals from weddings and such. I'm not suffering in the wedding market by any means. I actually have too much equipment and am selling some to help purchase a toyota supra... And weddings is all I do.. TOYOTA SUPRA.. Thanks for the photo 101 tips guys, i think most of us have all been doing the table cards thing for years now, i know i've been doing it for at least 3 years... Now lets move on.......... Open those minds jeez

I'm just trying to reach the stragglers that aren't interested in photography and create some excitement for them.... UNOBTRUSIVELY.....
Uh. Don't be a dick.

What we're saying is don't try to be a slick used car salesman. If you're already well on your way to a Toyota Supra, what's the real problem? Do you feel you're not getting there fast enough?

[Adaptive]

I agree with this. No one likes a salesman who pushes their trade at you, especially at a wedding. People are there to enjoy themselves, not tender for trade.

Spread the word with your business card and tell them only that the guest gallery will be online in x weeks. Let your photos and your politeness sell your business.

People may even object to be handed cards at a wedding, so an idea may be to leave a pile on the present table or near the bar.

Can you please ban the next person that brings up cards in this thread..... :lol:

[cdifoto]

Maybe you should try coming up with an idea of your own. Then sell tickets to seminars at the Four Seasons to tell us how great your idea is.

[Adaptive]

Uh. Don't be a dick.

What we're saying is don't try to be a slick used car salesman. If you're already well on your way to a Toyota Supra, what's the real problem? Do you feel you're not getting there fast enough?




Not "being a dick"
Just tired of people who can't read.

If I say don't mention gay porn in this thread everyone will do it because they can't read or they just don't want to listen..

Apparently I haven't made it clear in my first post that I was looking to collaborate and brainstorm to come up with fresh new ideas and alternatives to the same thing that we have all been doing for years......

[Adaptive]

Maybe you should try coming up with an idea of your own. Then sell tickets to seminars at the Four Seasons to tell us how great your idea is.


sorry i'm not those other guys with basic photo skills + great photoshop & marketing skills who live off making money from other photographers.

[cdifoto]

I dunno. I can't think of anything that would be un-sleazy, other than the slideshow Lloyd talked about.

[cdifoto]

sorry i'm not those other guys with basic photo skills + great photoshop & marketing skills who live off making money from other photographers.
Me either. I have ethics. Makes me sad. :cry:

[wyntrsnyte]

This is personal opinion, but I feel the need to share my two cents...

If I ever attended a wedding and subsequently started receiving emails from the photographer when I didn't specifically sign up to be on a distribution list, I would not be recommending them to anyone I know. Trying to obtain the email addresses of guests without their know-how is rude and on the same level as companies that sell people's information to put them on junk mail distribution lists. How do you know that the people on your distribution lists would be interested in your services? If a majority of them don't need your services, do you think they will pass your information on or just delete your emails and put you on a block/spam list?

I think a better way of going at this is figuring new ways of exposing yourself to your target market outside of the wedding reception. I agree with everyone else, if you don't want to pay for advertising, word of mouth is best.

[cdifoto]

In fairness, I don't think he's talking about spamming either. I'm pretty sure he means having them provide their email address voluntarily, knowing why they're providing it. In other words, signing up to be on a mailing list.

I still don't think many people would go for it though since they can just go to the photographer's website instead. I mean, it's not like you're letting everyone know about a sale of sweaters at Macy's. You'd be telling them about something they're already aware of...that you're a photographer and you shoot weddings.

[Adaptive]

This is personal opinion, but I feel the need to share my two cents...

If I ever attended a wedding and subsequently started receiving emails from the photographer when I didn't specifically sign up to be on a distribution list, I would not be recommending them to anyone I know. Trying to obtain the email addresses of guests without their know-how is rude and on the same level as companies that sell people's information to put them on junk mail distribution lists. How do you know that the people on your distribution lists would be interested in your services? If a majority of them don't need your services, do you think they will pass your information on or just delete your emails and put you on a block/spam list?

I think a better way of going at this is figuring new ways of exposing yourself to your target market outside of the wedding reception. I agree with everyone else, if you don't want to pay for advertising, word of mouth is best.

Thank you, your opinion is welcome. I wasn't looking for ways to obtain their information without their knowledge. For example only: on raffels/drawings people put their information and hope to win something. I see it all the time. I went to philly auto show the other day and I see the big sign "sign up for a chance to win $50,000!!!" and there is lots of people giving out their information..... But most people don't know that they are just signing themselves up for spam emails and such. But people WILLINGLY give out their information.... I DO NOT WANT TO DO THIS AT WEDDINGS --- JUST USING IT AS AN EXAMPLE..... I have to put this in bold because I know people will be saying that they would never do this a weddings... For the idiots out there, I would never do this or recommend it either, just an example!!.... I'd like to get a way for people to sign up for mailing lists voluntarily and unvoluntarily. Not looking to send out daily junk mail, I would be sending out things/information on services that EVERYONE could use even if they are not interested.

edit:
not looking to be some lowlife spam mailer, click here for some free viagra & then check out my webcam

[cdifoto]

It's Vi0gra and Weebc0m dammit. Get it right!

[Adaptive]

It's Vi0gra and Weebc0m dammit. Get it right!


My name is miss mary lou,

I would like to purchase your vi0gra and weebyc0m for $100 and I will give you $200 extra for shipping if you can send to my dying son in west africa. she would really love some vi0gra to cure her pain. I will have my shipping company contact you with the details. god bless you!

:lol:

[ghostman]

I'd like to get a way for people to sign up for mailing lists voluntarily and unvoluntarily. Not looking to send out daily junk mail, I would be sending out things/information on services that EVERYONE could use even if they are not interested.

edit:
not looking to be some lowlife spam mailer, click here for some free viagra & then check out my webcam

I don't mean to be rude at all, which is where this thread is heading. I understand you want to market yourself to a wider audience and be more proactive about it, but what you said (in bold) above does not make sense. By getting people's email addresses without them knowing your purpose and sending them email regarding your services, you are sending out unsolicited mail - the definition of spam. How you manage to get their email addresses is irrelevant (obtrusive, subtle, classy, etc.).

That is not how you want to market yourself. If all the guests start receiving spam from the photographer at Bob and Jane's wedding, you can bet Bob and Jane will end up hearing about it.

Not to mention, I think your "information" would have very narrow appeal. Most people I know don't get their photos taken by pro photographers out of the blue. And if they do need pro photos, they won't be depending on info they receive in an email ad.

[zagiace]

Haha here we go again with the cards...
Read the first post your illiterate dolts... wow... you guys really can't read.
CARDS... BEATING DEAD HORSE.... LETS MOVE ON TO SOMETHING ELSE MORE CREATIVE.....

I have the Card thing DOWN prefectly, there's nothing with cards that I am not already doing. I'm already getting great referrals from weddings and such. I'm not suffering in the wedding market by any means. I actually have too much equipment and am selling some to help purchase a toyota supra... And weddings is all I do.. TOYOTA SUPRA.. Thanks for the photo 101 tips guys, i think most of us have all been doing the table cards thing for years now, i know i've been doing it for at least 3 years... Now lets move on.......... Open those minds jeez

I'm just trying to reach the stragglers that aren't interested in photography and create some excitement for them.... UNOBTRUSIVELY.....

ok, calm down...
If you were referring to my post I did not read any other that repeated it. Previous posts all mentioned Business cards which are a different beast. I mentioned engagement session wallets and post event thank you cards. Condescending photo 101 tone and know it all attitude is not going to get very many responses.
If you have it down perfect move on yourself, you need no help.

[Jethro790]

If it's e-mail addresses you want to market your business, the best way to get them is to buy them.

[robbrouse]

The bad part about trying to get there info is "SPAM" no one really want it in the mail box and I think that would be a bad idea if you sent out emails to all the people at the guest. Might hurt your business more than help]

I have the card thing down, and I even took it up a notch to increase effectiveness.
Yes the card thing works but I want to supercharge the process by getting the contact information for everyone at the reception not just 30-50%.

But I want it to be the other way around where I get THEIR information.
I know there has got to be a way, and when it's figured out it will be the next big thing I just know it.

[DallasPhoto]

Have you tried Business cards? (runs for cover)

Hahahaha had to do it. But you're right. More creative ways would be great, I'm just not the creative one to come up with those ways... YET!

[SuzyView]

I think business cards are the only way. Tell them the first 10 people who log onto your gallery gets an image for free. :) Something like that may work.

[_Jo_]

I think business cards are the only way. Tell them the first 10 people who log onto your gallery gets an image for free. :) Something like that may work.

Maybe moving this from "Photo Sharing" and into "Weddings and Other Family Events Talk" - may get more suggestions also...

[Nicole Faith]

I read most of the posts, so I am sorry if this has been suggested. And this may be a reach as well.

This is what I do at weddings - but could be taken further in the direction that you are suggesting. If the couple requests it, I take "couple/date" photos of the guests at their dinner tables - before they eat, just after they are seated. This is of course for the bride/groom. However, if you have a few of these printed off from a previous wedding, you can carry those around with you as you shoot the guests at their tables and ask "would you like to purchase a photo of you and your date like this?" Or "would you like a copy of this image emailed to you of you and your date?" Either of these could bring in their business but will get their contact information. At least an email address.

Another thing you can do is set up a "photo booth" that a lot of photographers are doing now - like a pre set up location in the hall with a bench or props and take photos there for an hour or so during dinner. Offer the same deal - a print they can buy or get a copy of vial email. It's a cute photo for the bride and groom and for the guest if they want one.

I don't know - just tossing ideas. This gets you photos for the current client, but also opens you up to the rest of the room. I haven't personally tried these as I have just thought about them.

[LW Dail]

I was about to add what Nicole added.

I'd do a couples photo shoot and offer to email a low-res for free. Maybe give them your card with the image number and say something like "Just shoot me an email requesting this image and I'll send it to you."

Your email could begin the email relationship with the potential customer.

Hopefully you have a 'sign up for our mailing list' on your website. If wedding guests are going to the site, you can capture addresses there.

You could also take the slideshow idea and make it into a screensaver. Add it to your website with a free download for guests. That drives them to your site, gets your pictures (with website) on their monitor (in their office?!), and possibly gets them to provide the email address on the website.

Or you could hand out business cards!

[SuzyView]

I moved it to Talk. You will get more responses here.

[tim]

I put a pile of cards at the head of the buffet or on the bar that have "to view photos from todays event please visit (my website)". People take them, or not.

[_Jo_]

I put a pile of cards at the head of the buffet or on the bar that have "to view photos from todays event please visit (my website)". People take them, or not.

Perfect. Most people will take a card (if only to view the pro wedding pics) and more then likely have a browse of the website.

There is nothing more off-putting then a professional spamming your inbox.

Your work should speak for itself...if your good at what you do...you will get the work...if your not...well...

[Adaptive]

Have you tried Business cards? (runs for cover)

Hahahaha had to do it. But you're right. More creative ways would be great, I'm just not the creative one to come up with those ways... YET!

hehe

in all seriousness though, david jay or one of these guys will do some kind of thing similar to what I'm thinking about and everyone will be like OMG he is a genious then EVERYONE will be on the bandwagon and I'll be like um WTF?... This is exactly what I was talking about 2 years ago and everyone was calling me an idiot... :lol:

[bnlearle]

Might have been suggested...

Make a slide of your favorite 25-50 photos from the day, set up your laptop on a table in the reception - not in the way of anything. Let it loop. Put your biz cards next to it. Done!

[Adaptive]

I read most of the posts, so I am sorry if this has been suggested. And this may be a reach as well.

This is what I do at weddings - but could be taken further in the direction that you are suggesting. If the couple requests it, I take "couple/date" photos of the guests at their dinner tables - before they eat, just after they are seated. This is of course for the bride/groom. However, if you have a few of these printed off from a previous wedding, you can carry those around with you as you shoot the guests at their tables and ask "would you like to purchase a photo of you and your date like this?" Or "would you like a copy of this image emailed to you of you and your date?" Either of these could bring in their business but will get their contact information. At least an email address.

Another thing you can do is set up a "photo booth" that a lot of photographers are doing now - like a pre set up location in the hall with a bench or props and take photos there for an hour or so during dinner. Offer the same deal - a print they can buy or get a copy of vial email. It's a cute photo for the bride and groom and for the guest if they want one.

I don't know - just tossing ideas. This gets you photos for the current client, but also opens you up to the rest of the room. I haven't personally tried these as I have just thought about them.


Finally some great input & ideas!!!

[Adaptive]

I was about to add what Nicole added.

I'd do a couples photo shoot and offer to email a low-res for free. Maybe give them your card with the image number and say something like "Just shoot me an email requesting this image and I'll send it to you."

Your email could begin the email relationship with the potential customer.

Hopefully you have a 'sign up for our mailing list' on your website. If wedding guests are going to the site, you can capture addresses there.

You could also take the slideshow idea and make it into a screensaver. Add it to your website with a free download for guests. That drives them to your site, gets your pictures (with website) on their monitor (in their office?!), and possibly gets them to provide the email address on the website.

Or you could hand out business cards!


more great ideas! :cool:

[Adaptive]

I put a pile of cards at the head of the buffet or on the bar that have "to view photos from todays event please visit (my website)". People take them, or not.


This is basic amateur stuff.

As mentioned earlier I've been doing the card thing for 3+ years I'm well into the card game and looking for higher things.

I'll give my card secret even though I probably shouldnt...

Engagement shoots are great and always fun. Bridal portrait sessions are always great too. What to do with all these great images? Put them on Table cards for the wedding for all the guests to have as a rememberance! But that's not all, put the name of the couple, wedding date, website name, and instructions on how to view/purchase the pictures of the wedding. Place the cards on the tables before the guests arrive in the reception area or have assistant hand them out during all the dancing/fun times. Weddings are different so you will learn when is teh best time.

In my research/experience,
- Putting biz cards on peoples tables is tacky, and giving them to random people at the wedding is more work/effort and will not give that good of a result unless you have time to sit down and talk to the person for a while, you will risk missing special moments and you always run the risk of talking to a clingy person who will end up following you around all day......
- Printing generic table cards to hand out or put on the tables/bars at every wedding is a good idea. But sometimes people don't take them and keep them, because it's just a generic card with words.
- People are most likely to grab a card and KEEP IT if it has the name + date of the newly wed couple and a cute picture of the newly married couple on it!!!!!! Rocket science...

Trust me I've been doing the card thing for a LOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOONG TIME.
Ok now get off the card thing people seriously, it's old news....

:cool:

[tim]

I find putting cards on the tables kinda tacky and pushy, even if it does have the couples picture on it. I go for low key, and everything I do in my business is how i'd want a photographer to do things for my own wedding.

[bnlearle]

I find putting cards on the tables kinda tacky and pushy, even if it does have the couples picture on it. I go for low key, and everything I do in my business is how i'd want a photographer to do things for my own wedding.
Agreed.

[stathunter]

I typically always offer a personalized domain name in the package I sell the client (example: smithwedding.com) --- I buy the domain and point it to a gallery section I have built for the client --- then I have cards printed with "Congratuations , blah, blah, to view photos go to: www.SmithWedding.com------and then leave the cards where ever--- and what is killer is when these cards are next to a slide show playing at the reception--- they beg for cards then.

[Adaptive]

I find putting cards on the tables kinda tacky and pushy, even if it does have the couples picture on it. I go for low key, and everything I do in my business is how i'd want a photographer to do things for my own wedding.


I offer it as part of my packages and couples love it and actually ask for it. 4/5 ths of the card of the card contains the image + names/wedding date. The bottom 1/5th of the card contains 3 text lines how the proofs can be viewed/purchased online. Nothing pushy/tacky about it. Even people at the tables say "ohhh this is a good idea", and "ohh how clever". Because without the cards there would be tonnnnns of people asking the B&G and myself where they can see pictures from the wedding. You might be saying my idea is bad but you know you're going to start doing it so don't even try to lie....

Personalized table cards = great memorabilia not tacky/pushy

Pushy/tacky = generic table cards with text only containing info how you can view the images online.

[zagiace]

I offer it as part of my packages and couples love it and actually ask for it. 4/5 ths of the card of the card contains the image + names/wedding date. The bottom 1/5th of the card contains 3 text lines how the proofs can be viewed/purchased online. Nothing pushy/tacky about it. Even people at the tables say "ohhh this is a good idea", and "ohh how clever"

Personalized table cards = great memorabilia not tacky/pushy

Pushy/tacky = generic table cards with text only containing info how you can view the images online.
Pretty standard card thing, not sure I would have called it a secret since many labs offer this, but I like how you were reluctant to share when your asking for help. I do it double sided with the web info on the reverse. btw a table card is totally different, you see them at Dennys.

I liked the idea a previous poster put in about getting the couple a domain name and web space. That seems like a great spot to advertise.
Tell me, do you just get the domain and have it directed to a directory on your site? That would also improve your search results.
How long do you keep it up?

[Adaptive]

Pretty standard card thing, not sure I would have called it a secret since many labs offer this, but I like how you were reluctant to share when your asking for help. I do it double sided with the web info on the reverse. btw a table card is totally different, you see them at Dennys.

I liked the idea a previous poster put in about getting the couple a domain name and web space. That seems like a great spot to advertise.
Tell me, do you just get the domain and have it directed to a directory on your site? That would also improve your search results.
How long do you keep it up?


Reluctant to share because I DON'T WANT TO TALK ABOUT CARDS......... Read first post mr smarty pants. But I fugure since everyone keeps INSISTING on talking about card throwing it out there like it is a cool new idea, I figure I'd throw my technique that I've been using for YEARSSSSSS out there in hopes of trying to GET PAST ALL THIS TALK ABOUT CARDS..... I didn't want to talk about cards. And everyone elses idea of putting out cards is OLD AND AMATEURISH. IN 4 PAGES THERE HAS BEEN 2 GOOD POSTS WITH GOOD IDEAS.... IF I DIDN'T HAVE TO KEEP SWATTING THE "HOOKED ON PHONICS A+ READING SKILLS CREW" AWAY BECAUSE THEY KEEP BRINGING UP CARDS, WE COULD HAVE HAD MANY MORE GOOD IDEAS AND BUILD OFF OF THE OTHER IDEAS. BUT INSTEAD I HAVE TO COME OFF LIKE AN A-HOLE AND CHASE AWAY THESE PEOPLE TALKING ABOUT CARDS WHO ARE KILLING THE THREAD.

Table card is what it is called, what i call and my lab calls it that too, marketing card is another name for it. It's just a 4x6 card that you put on people's tables at their seats, or you can hand them to people. I guess you can call them promo cards too, same kind of thing that people hand out to you at the clubs, just a standard 4x6 card. Before someone gets all retarded, no i'm not suggesting standing at a door and handing them out to people like a club......... I have to clarify everything I say because most of you people are pretty dense, and I garantee if I didn't put this disclaimer people would be saying (oh handing out cards like this is a bad idea, ohh i'd never do that, ohh i has a reading skills)....

I only get single side print, because mine are customized/personalized for every wedding. If I wanted to print double sided on thick paper stock, full color both sides, glossy generic cards I could get mass produced by the thousands for like $100. But since I do personalized I only print single side full color and I get bundles of 100 for only $20.

Yes many labs offer table cards, but many photographers just print BASIC cards with text info only that tells how the people can go to their website and order prints. Three years ago most people weren't on the table card kick yet, I had to order hundreds of 4x6 prints. I started personalizing them and and the lab said that i was very creative and such. And from there the word gets out and of course i've told lots of people and many people at weddings have seen it so yeah. Not saying I'm a pioneer or the first person to ever do it, but I didn't get the idea from someone else...










The domain name idea is/was good, this is becoming widespread/common now and there are many companies that do just this and nothing else.. One example is www.mywedding.com. They offer free hosting and give the brides an easy to create template where they can put all their information, post photos & links, have guest books, and even email forms. I have often helped my brides with their DNS settings by helping them point their domain name to their host. mywedding provides the hosting and an outside company like godaddy provides the domain name. Domain names can be purchased for as little as $9.95 per year. I always recommend that the bride/groom purchase their own domain name so they can choose to renue their yearly domain name as many times as they want, and it's one less annual bill that I have to worry about getting charged on my biz credit card.
Here is a sample www. elaineandleo .com

[TheHoff]

I would also suggest not registering a separate domain for each wedding but rather running it off of your own. That way when people link back to the wedding photos they are providing direct pagerank (and validity) to your site and not some throwaway domain that will be gone next year.

http://smithphotography.com/joneswedding

etc.


I find putting cards on the tables kinda tacky and pushy, even if it does have the couples picture on it. I go for low key, and everything I do in my business is how i'd want a photographer to do things for my own wedding.

If it is agreed on by the couple that the cards go on the table, then fine. However as a guest, I'd like to say there is already enough crap on the average wedding table and barely any space to put your drink when they cram 8 people on a table that should comfortably seat 6.

Enough junk on the table, already -- put it on the bar or near the gift table with your slideshow running.

[LW Dail]

One of my girlfriend's daughter was married recently and they did their own wedding website.

It had pics of the bride/groom, families, maps to the wedding & reception, a place for comments, etc.

I'd certainly ask the B&G if they are planning on doing this and ask to be included.

If they're not, additing to what The Hoff said, I'd offer a site off my domain to them for this purpose, maybe even with a template or something.

Side note: Don't you love how we have to not only take great pictures, we have to buy great gear, learn how to photoshop, learn how to manage a website, market ourselves, handle our customers, travel with our gear, and keep up to date.

Something tells me for my 'later in life' career, I should have just gone to medical school and done something easy like brain surgery!

[LW Dail]

more great ideas! :cool:

:oops: she blushes demurely (yeah, right!)

[Adaptive]

:oops: she blushes demurely (yeah, right!)


For real, you're one of the only people in here thinking outside of the box. I like it! :cool:

wish i could figure out how to find actual file name on mk3.
i can find image # no problem, but file name i've never been able to find.


The mailing list idea is good but old, still it's better than the same suggestion that everyone else is saying.

Slideshow is good too and slideshow wallpaper is really cool idea!
=)

[razyl]

How about writing your website URL on a piece of paper and sticking it to the back of the bride and groom, you know, like those "kick me" notes?

Seriously I'm interested in good ideas for this kind of thing too.....low key would be nice.

I know of an local photographer that uses cards with a URL, then to view the photos you need to log-in with an email address....which can then be used for marketing. Is a bit spammy though.

[bnlearle]

I just don't know what could be better than a laptop with their images, set up in a corner where people can come and go as they please, with some cards. Not intrusive. Doesn't come off tacky. EVERYONE will look at those pictures throughout the night, and you'll have your chance to OFFER these cards with a url or whatever on them.

Honestly, I just don't see what beats the subtle approach.

[cdifoto]

I do lastname.cdifoto.com for the couple's personal url. It's used to redirect to their proofing. Subdomains are free and there's zero possibility of it being unavailable.

The card is just my standard card with a statement and the url below my logo, after my logo has been shifted up a few lines. It's not tacky because my cards are awesome to begin with. Personalizing them further (with a photo of the couple or some such thing) might be kinda cool but it's not always possible, since not everyone does an engagement session with me. I don't know how well that would translate into print anyway, or how I could design a card that doesn't look cheesy with their faces on it.

I go table to table because I like people and want them to meet me one on one or at least 5 on 1. If my face is always behind the camera, no one meets me. There usually aren't many photo ops during the food, but I have my camera slung over my shoulder anyway just in case. They see you actually being proactive to meet them and talk about the couples' images, and it shows that you genuinely love what you do.

I don't like to be slick salesman or lazy about it, nor do I like to be anonymous. That's why I also mingle on the dance floor. Sometimes guests even want to get pics taken with me. I oblige of course because I'm extremely photogenic. ;)

[Adaptive]

I go table to table because I like people and want them to meet me one on one or at least 5 on 1. If my face is always behind the camera, no one meets me. There usually aren't many photo ops during the food, but I have my camera slung over my shoulder anyway just in case. They see you actually being proactive to meet them and talk about the couples' images, and it shows that you genuinely love what you do.

I don't like to be slick salesman or lazy about it, nor do I like to be anonymous. That's why I also mingle on the dance floor. Sometimes guests even want to get pics taken with me. I oblige of course because I'm extremely photogenic. ;)

Hehe yeah same here, I've gone as far as to lend batteries, memory cards, and even flashes out to guests during the reception. One time I even lent out my 24-70 to this very cute bridesmaid during the reception just for kicks. It ended up being a very good idea because she was soo excited and told EVERYONE how awesome I am and was hugging me all night even giving me kisses! whoa! She was seriously like my best friend all night. The DJ saw her hugging me being all close to me and my face tryign to kiss me and he said "dude she's hot, is that your girlfriend?" lol :lol:

Yeah I always get girls wanting to dance with me but i'm soo shy hehe :lol: I've always been brought up/trained to know my place as a vendor. To go out and dance with the people and stuff is like an electric fence to me, just the thought gives me this feeling like "OMG i better not do that, i'm being paid big money to shoot this, not to participate and have a good time..."

i guess times are changing though, it's ok to do this stuff these days...?

[cdifoto]

I mingle but I don't dance. I'm white.

[LW Dail]

Hot bridesmaids dancing with me, hanging on me, and kissing me?!?!

Perhaps I should rethink this whole nature thing and head on over to weddings.

Gee, wonder if hubby would pitch a fit or want to watch!?! maybe take pictures...

<she pauses and ponders>

I'll bet I could add a few more Ls out of this..... you know honey, with the brand new XX,XXXmm L 1.4 lens, the clarity on that would be out of this world.....

[cdifoto]

Hot bridesmaids dancing with me, hanging on me, and kissing me?!?!

Perhaps I should rethink this whole nature thing and head on over to weddings.

Gee, wonder if hubby would pitch a fit or want to watch!?! maybe take pictures...

<she pauses and ponders>

I'll bet I could add a few more Ls out of this..... you know honey, with the brand new XX,XXXmm L 1.4 lens, the clarity on that would be out of this world.....
I'd take pictures.

[sapearl]

Well, that depends - if you do a beautiful job on the wedding and the client loves the work then there's no issue. But if you messed up, missed an important picture, or otherwise gave mediocre coverage then: "Of course he didn't get those shots, he was too busy dancing and having a good time."

No thank you. I'm hired to do a specific job, not to enjoy myself. Call me old fashioned but if clients think they're not getting the service they paid for then usually trouble follows.

......i guess times are changing though, it's ok to do this stuff these days...?

[cdifoto]

I like to mingle and meet people but I don't dance like a guest. I might be-bop around the floor when a good song is playing but generally speaking it just speeds me up and I'm all over the place. My idea of mingling though isn't dancing with the guests and talking to them...I just mean I don't stick to the outer perimeter of the floor. I get amongst them for up close & personal shots. Kinda like this:

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a304/cdifoto/wedding/2007-09-22-631.jpg

[DallasPhoto]

Has anyone tried putting small digital frames on the tables or around the reception area just for the guests to view... Instead of just one slide show.

Just have about 5 of them placed in different places around the reception area... and about every 10 or so slides just have an image that has your website contact # etc on it.... There would be a slight investment!

Just tryin to think of SOMETHING to contribute.

[razyl]

Great idea Dallas

[drock220]

oh how bout passing out heavy stock paper maybe 2x3.5 or 4x6 with your info on it.

sorry i just had to. i do the "date picture" idea but at clubs handing them a 3x4 flier of our next upcoming event. they then will sign up to gain access to the gallery. It does collect emails but not as much as we would like.

It all depends what you will do with that e-mail address. I wouldnt really think to use this at a wedding. The whole reason we get the email information is to send them spam about our upcoming events

[photagraph]

Give-aways are great for generating new leads. If I were you I would do a give-away of some sort on your website and have the DJ announce that you are having a give-away maybe once or twice during the reception. People love getting free stuff and you would get some good exposure.

[sapearl]

This is something you really want to think twice about.

The concept is done a lot a bridal fairs, with great results, and I think it is an excellent idea in that type of situation. But to have that done in the middle of a weding reception? That type of commercialism is out of place and ill-timed in such a setting. It could work and get a lead or two, but I think it would also generate a fair amount of dirty looks and puzzled frowns. No thank you; just my .02.

Give-aways are great for generating new leads. If I were you I would do a give-away of some sort on your website and have the DJ announce that you are having a give-away maybe once or twice during the reception. People love getting free stuff and you would get some good exposure.

[Adaptive]

I mingle but I don't dance. I'm white.

LOL :lol: Same here, I may do something that resembles dancing, but I'm white I just look goofy if I try.



Hot bridesmaids dancing with me, hanging on me, and kissing me?!?!

Perhaps I should rethink this whole nature thing and head on over to weddings.

Gee, wonder if hubby would pitch a fit or want to watch!?! maybe take pictures...

<she pauses and ponders>

I'll bet I could add a few more Ls out of this..... you know honey, with the brand new XX,XXXmm L 1.4 lens, the clarity on that would be out of this world.....

Ooooh I want to see some hot bridesmaids hanging and kissing on you.... I want front row seats!! :eek:



I'd take pictures.

Me too!



Well, that depends - if you do a beautiful job on the wedding and the client loves the work then there's no issue. But if you messed up, missed an important picture, or otherwise gave mediocre coverage then: "Of course he didn't get those shots, he was too busy dancing and having a good time."

No thank you. I'm hired to do a specific job, not to enjoy myself. Call me old fashioned but if clients think they're not getting the service they paid for then usually trouble follows.

Yeah I have the same mentality. I'm too afriad that I would miss some shots or some of the old fashion guests (who often foot the bill for weddings) would see me out there dancing and acting like a fool and not want to hire me for their son/daughters wedding in the future... But at the same time you want to impress the target market with your fun creative friendly nature and show that you're personable and not just another vendor.. It's a catch 22.. But yeah I agree I typically don't go dancing at weddings. That one time I had the brides maid hugging and kissing on me was the one time deal. I've had bridesmaids try to pull me onto the dance floor MANNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNY times, and always get bridesmaids that want to take pictures with me, and sooo many friendly kisses. But I try to keep it as professional as possible, this one girl, REALLYYYY HOT was at a wedding alone, and I was always kind of joking with her about her shoes, because she had some really sexy high fashion shoes on and looked like she came out of a fashion mag compared to everyone else at teh wedding. Well towards the end of the night when everyone was drunk she started talking to me... then when it came time for the slow dances she wanted to take me out on the dance floor to slow dance with me.... wow I had to lower my camera for a while to cover the new development that had arrised... haha jk, but seriously yeah I couldn't dance with her, she was soo sexy and I wasn't ready to accidentally rub a chub against her leg or something. And I could already envision the wedding party and guests teasing me or laughing at me about being out there. Never know, coulda been my future wife..... :cry: But I'd rather be professional, I'm still a believer in keeping business and pleasure separate.



I like to mingle and meet people but I don't dance like a guest. I might be-bop around the floor when a good song is playing but generally speaking it just speeds me up and I'm all over the place. My idea of mingling though isn't dancing with the guests and talking to them...I just mean I don't stick to the outer perimeter of the floor. I get amongst them for up close & personal shots.

Yeah I'm typically like a ninja, always moving around and trying to stay out of sight. I hate those videographers that make themselves into a tree and just camp at one spot all night. It makes them look soo lazy and unprofessional, like all of the action is supposed to come to them.... god people are stupid sometimes... I ALWAYS get people coming up to me with their point and shoot camera trying to get a picture of me, so i turn to them and take 5 or 10 photos rapid fire in the same amount of time it takes them to get off one shot.. lol soo funny. And sometimes when I'm getting candids the people will notice me and get a surprised look on their face and I will pull the trigger, look at the image and flip to different memory card or frame #1 where I have a preset joke image of a laughing monkey or something like that, and show the person the image and they always laugh soo hard lol. it's hard to explain but it's always a garanteed fun for all. hehehe

But yeah I'm always bouncing around everywhere, hard to keep a track of me, but not too difficult that the B&G can't find me. I've second shot for some photographers that go out on smoke breaks for like 10-15 minutes and the B&G are walking around asking and looking for the photographer... That's soo bad... glad I don't smoke....



Has anyone tried putting small digital frames on the tables or around the reception area just for the guests to view... Instead of just one slide show.

Just have about 5 of them placed in different places around the reception area... and about every 10 or so slides just have an image that has your website contact # etc on it.... There would be a slight investment!

Just tryin to think of SOMETHING to contribute.
Great idea Dallas

Definitely a great idea, would totally be worth looking into this!



oh how bout passing out heavy stock paper maybe 2x3.5 or 4x6 with your info on it.

Been doing this for soo long that I think my first cards were of bobby and whitney.... hehe jk



Give-aways are great for generating new leads. If I were you I would do a give-away of some sort on your website and have the DJ announce that you are having a give-away maybe once or twice during the reception. People love getting free stuff and you would get some good exposure.
This is something you really want to think twice about. The concept is done a lot a bridal fairs, with great results, and I think it is an excellent idea in that type of situation. But to have that done in the middle of a weding reception? That type of commercialism is out of place and ill-timed in such a setting. It could work and get a lead or two, but I think it would also generate a fair amount of dirty looks and puzzled frowns. No thank you; just my .02.

Yeah something like this is what I was originally thinking, but sapearl is right, having the DJ announce something like this at a wedding would be quite tacky. Would have to think of a different way to get this infomation, maybe have on the table cards some kind of killer deal that people would want to check out on the website, and they put their information. First 20 guests who register get 3 free photos, or something like that on the back of the table cards.. I donno, we gotta brain storm