How To Be a Smart Photographer [Archive] - Canon Digital Photography Forums

sitedesigner

18th of May 2009 (Mon), 10:40

Nope. Not at all. It's actually advice. I'm not selling anything. In fact, I'll just post the post right here if you are too worried about traveling to my site.

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It’s not just about burn and dodge.

Are you a photographer that is interested in getting more business?

Have you perfected your portfolio website, but the emails and calls are not coming in?

If you want to remain competitive it’s critical that you not only have your great portfolio website, but you have a blog established as well.

Your potential clients probably LOVE your work. They probably think you’ve taken the best photographs of kids or wedding receptions that they’ve ever looked at.

There’s just one problem.

The same potential client has been reading the blog of your competitor and has fallen in love with their personality.

They have also been reading the gushing comments left by other clients which further boosts their confidence in hiring that photographer.

This photographer, although their imagery isn’t as perfectly cropped, focused, burned or dodged, or desaturated as yours, sounds more competent than you because of the insightful blog posts that they periodically update their site with.

Are you alarmed yet?

Guess what…

It’s more about the relationship you build and less about the perfect dodge or burn on a photo.

What’s your experience with having a blog as a photographer? Is it helping you build your business and strengthen relationships? Do you need a blog and don’t know where to begin. Contact me if you would like more info.

Stay tuned for more posts on this subject as I’ll teach you how to carefully craft a blog that will make you a cinch for the next client hoping to build a relationship with you.

yogestee

18th of May 2009 (Mon), 10:42

sitedesigner

18th of May 2009 (Mon), 10:48

In a sense, but not at all. People become more trusting when they can communicate with you and learn more about you. You can write about your photographic expertise.

I don't think you can just put up a Flash site full of photos and expect business to flood in like you used to. People are communicating differently these days and want to read about satisfied customers and want to read about your expertise.

So, the point I'm trying to make is: start a dialogue about how great you are.

joebob23

18th of May 2009 (Mon), 12:33

Although my experience in this area is limited, I think it would be a balance of both, weighing more toward the photography side. You can be the best salesman in the world, but people aren't going to buy a crap product.

My mom made cakes for weddings, showers, birthdays, etc. for 12-15 years, and did not market herself at all. Her business was made up entirely by referrals by not only the people who bought the cakes, but also by guests of the parties who had only seen the cake for an hour during the reception or party - quality work will market itself to a certain extent.

When people see a picture that they think is truly amazing, they aren't going to think so by the description underneath, but the content of the work itself.

If I look at an amazing house, I don't wonder what the owner thinks about it, I wonder who designed and built it. When I see an incredible painting or photograph, I have never asked myself how proud the artist was of it.

cgatto

18th of May 2009 (Mon), 12:44

I have to agree with joebob. If I'm looking for a photographer, the first thing I would want to see is their work. Their blog would not even cross my mind. Most clients know if they are going to hire you or not based on the first handful of photos they see.

sitedesigner

18th of May 2009 (Mon), 12:44

joebob23,

Beautiful points! I couldn't agree more. I'd like to expand on what you said.

Photographers, by now realize that they have to have a web presence to compete in the current market. I believe in a clutter-free presentation when displaying photography or other forms of art.

I also agree that skill is just as important as sales and marketing. To get people to your work, you need an avenue. Word-of-mouth and referrals are the BEST way to get business. I think it's foolish to rely on that alone.

Now, I want to expand on what I said.

One other key factor in having a blog is the social media aspect of having a blog. Many photographers are being left in the dust because their competition is embracing social media and displaying their work utilizing social media outlets.

Also, blogs offer a way for search engines to pick up on your content and index it. You can strategically plan what you say to make sure your blog/site is picked up for search terms that will benefit your business. I will be talking about this more in future posts.

So, the main point I'm trying to make is social media is as essential to the photographer just as much as going digital was/is and transitioning from film.

To stay in business, you must embrace the change.

sitedesigner

18th of May 2009 (Mon), 12:46

Chris,

If I'm looking for a photographer, the first thing I would want to see is their work.

I agree as well, but the point I haven't made yet is in order to get people to the work, you have to enable them to get to the work. This point belongs in a different posting altogether, but the blog opens you up to communities of people interested in what you have to offer, whereas a gallery of images is somewhat limiting.

cgatto

18th of May 2009 (Mon), 12:55

I suppose I agree with you on the whole. I use Facebook as a means to express myself within a "community", and I agree that it definitely draws more attention to you. But to me, the finished product holds a lot more water than how witty I can be on a blog. I dunno. that's just my two cents.

sitedesigner

18th of May 2009 (Mon), 13:03

I think it's funny how it's a battle of wits on Facebook. You can build a solid community of followers that will respect you and frequently comment on your work.

Additionally, when you post work of a certain client, you can ask that client to comment on the work and enable them to send the photo group to friends who will more than likely comment.

It essentially becomes one big word of mouth repository.

birdfromboat

18th of May 2009 (Mon), 13:25

words, word of mouth, man have I heard this one before. Doesn't everyone know that a picture is worth a thousand words?
The first time I met my neighbor, I was impressed by his farm, how clean everything was, his equipment was old but functional, he did everything right. He just didn't care a hoot what he looked like or smelled like or talked like. Then he started growing grapes for the wineries and almost went broke cuz he couldn't hold the glass right at the parties and he didn't care to learn, it didn't have anything to do with growing grapes. Researching strains and rootstock and soil amendment he knew, wit he didn't even care for. They wouldn't buy his grapes no matter how good his crops were.
Now he grows grapes for himself, and his wine is making him a fortune. And he did it all with the old tractors and he still doesn't care to go "spit wine" at some shin-dig where he has to wear a monkey suit and smile at idiots.
Gotta love a guy like that.

thats all kind of long winded but I hope you get my point. If I gotta jump through a hoop to sell a product, I need to work harder on my product. If I can produce something someone wants to buy, hoops arent going to be a part of the equation. Self promotion is for self important snobs, success is for those that earn it, usually through hard work and care. In the art world, the wine world and the real world too.

sitedesigner

18th of May 2009 (Mon), 13:34

That's all fine and good, but how do your potential clients get to your work?

Isn't photography a form of self-expression which is a form of self-promotion?

I don't think it's a matter of talking about how great you are. It's more a matter of getting other people to talk about how great you are.

Ultimately, people need to find you and your work, otherwise who will you be taking the pictures for... your self?

sitedesigner

18th of May 2009 (Mon), 13:37

I'd be curious to find out the ages of each of you and if you do or do not have a blog or website. I think we might find some interesting patterns in the data.

gjl711

18th of May 2009 (Mon), 13:40

Marketing can always over ride quality.. always.. as long as the quality meets some minimum standard. The world is full of examples. For example, for years VHS dominated and eventually drove out the technically better Beta, Info-mercials are making a fortune at the expense of other quality merchandise. you mom may have made cakes, but I never heard of her nor bought anything from her, but I've heard of Sara-lee and have purchased plenty from them.

You can still build a business solely on word of mouth and may even do quite well. But someone may pop along with a flashy marketing approach, offer into deals or some gimic and many of you customers may just up and try them out. You may be way more talented than the upstart but unless you market yourself appropriately you may find a lot of potential business headed to someone more showy and that's true no matter what business your in.

Karl Johnston

18th of May 2009 (Mon), 13:42

It kinda sounds like you're trying to sell something in that blog post. if it were me I'd redirect somewhere else...maybe try to re-write it so it doesn't sound like an infomercial?

I agree with what site is saying, though, marketing can carry a person...but adopting one business practise and one alone is sure to fail. You need to have a lot in your arsenal; adopt a lot of styles of doing business and your art if you expect to succeed.

Google doesnt make its billions being a search engine - look at their other businesses and operations.

Check out this guy
http://www.karil.deviantart.com

He's a photographer that uses grossly overprocessed and disgusting filter effects ...and yet hes famous on that website, has hundreds of thousands of people telling him how great he is and how great his work is. His technique is marketing. The website has a feature where you can click an icon and it will take you to the newest member on the site's page. I once had someone tell me he sends about 100 "Welcome to this page, I enjoy your work, Looking good" comments per day on every newcomer's page. People are attracted to colorful images, generally, and his work is largely overprocessed color filters and HDR.

By targets on that website is someone who knows next to nothing about photography or anything about how he creates his work. He has so many viewers and followers on that site that if he posts up a ****ty picture of a cat then he will get 200 favorites on it in a day. Not sure if he gets any profit...but the example is meant to show that a shoddy photographer can generate a huge market and fan base if he markets himself alone.

Marketing = Power

sitedesigner

18th of May 2009 (Mon), 13:48

Karl,

I appreciate your concern. I'm simply a guy that builds websites for a living that loves photography. I build websites for other photographers and I pay attention to trends in design and social media.

I'm offering free advice to photographers old and new.

Of course, it would be nice to be approached for business, but this is merely an attempt to advise, educate and inspire people to consider how people can learn more about their business in the 21st century.

I'm creating a dialogue and a conversation.

sitedesigner

18th of May 2009 (Mon), 13:50

You can still build a business solely on word of mouth and may even do quite well. But someone may pop along with a flashy marketing approach, offer into deals or some gimic and many of you customers may just up and try them out.

Gil, great example and thanks for helping me make my point.

You have to adapt to the way things are done if you want to stay in business.

Mt Olympus

18th of May 2009 (Mon), 14:16

Google doesnt make its billions being a search engine - look at their other businesses and operations.

Yes, but they started out as a search engine--a darn good one at that.

sitedesigner

18th of May 2009 (Mon), 14:36

Not sure if he gets any profit...but the example is meant to show that a shoddy photographer can generate a huge market and fan base if he markets himself alone.

Marketing = Power

There we go. That's the main point I'm trying to make here.

To sustain business, you must market yourself. To market yourself, forget about sending out print ads, you have to use social media and blogs.

Someone is going to like your work. Liking your work is completely subjective and taste will vary from one person to the next.

Put your work out there, market it using social media and a blog and people will buy your service, whether it's crap or not.

Subjectively speaking of course. ;)

cgatto

18th of May 2009 (Mon), 15:09

Obviously I don't expect to get hits on a website without somehow advertising it to a target audience. But if you're saying you should use a blog to advertise your website, how do you advertise your blog? On your website? So why not skip advertising your blog, and just stick to directing traffic to your portfolio?

sitedesigner

18th of May 2009 (Mon), 15:35

That will be the point of my next blog post. Search engines love blogs because the content is constantly updated. You are essentially building a community with a blog much like this forum or deviantART. So, you use the blog as a vehicle to get people to your work.

yogestee

18th of May 2009 (Mon), 23:12

I'd be curious to find out the ages of each of you and if you do or do not have a blog or website. I think we might find some interesting patterns in the data.

I'm 53yo and have been in the industry professionally since 1978,,retired from pro-photography in July '07.. I spent 4 of those years self employed building up a client base from contacts I made before being self employed.. Most of these came from word of mouth..

Besides my work the most important thing is your networking ability..By that I mean being visible and having a high profile within the industry..This is done by being out there and being recognised not by a blog or even a website,,although I do have a website with it's address visible on my business card along with other contact details.. There are times when you must do some pro-rata work..This is a way of networking,,getting your name out there..

For me blogs just don't work and websites have limited success..

sitedesigner

19th of May 2009 (Tue), 01:08

Social media and blogging is the new way of networking. Those that embrace this fact will succeed.

This world moves too fast to try and show your face and be out there.

You must now show your voice and be out there.

Karl Johnston

19th of May 2009 (Tue), 01:38

spkerer

19th of May 2009 (Tue), 09:28

Take it down a notch or two. When I read your messages now I hear Billy Mays' or Anthony Sullivan's voice. You're coming across way too much like you've got something to sell. I'm half expecting to hear "but wait, visit my site in the next 5 minutes and you also ..." And I'm more than half expecting that after a bit of this "free advice," you're going to offer a subscription or something for more detailed advice.

I'm not trying to be harsh, but at least for my liking you're coming off WAY too strong.

I'll go out on a limb and say a photographer can be smart AND not have a blog. This is not the business section. Not all of us are trying to maximize our reach and exposure. Some of us do this strictly for enjoyment.

sitedesigner

19th of May 2009 (Tue), 09:45

If you don't want free advice, don't listen. I'm building awareness and making my voice heard in a public forum. I'm a designer that has a passion for photography.

No other offer will come of this and if it did, you would not have to buy it.

I'm not trying to be harsh either, but all I'm saying is if my free advice doesn't apply to you, then don't worry about it. This is the General Photography section and building a blog is beneficial to those who take pictures for business or pleasure.

With that said... Who wants to build a blog?? ;) ;)

cgatto

19th of May 2009 (Tue), 10:41

I would like a blog, and wouldn't be against running one. That said, paying for a website is enough. I wouldn't pay for a blog.

sitedesigner

19th of May 2009 (Tue), 10:45

Well, stay tuned for more free advice. I'll tell you EXACTLY how to set one up the right way.

cgatto

19th of May 2009 (Tue), 10:50

Not to be rude, but one must question your motives here. Why are you giving out so much "free advice"?

sitedesigner

19th of May 2009 (Tue), 11:01

cgatto

19th of May 2009 (Tue), 11:05

Fair enough. I'll stay tuned.

butugly

19th of May 2009 (Tue), 11:18

It's funny how much this is coming up. Why do I offer so much free advice? The answer is simple. I am building brand awareness.

This is what I'm trying to teach you guys. Offering up a little advice will not take business away from you. It makes you the "go to" person in a particular area or niche.

excellent all the pro photographers listen to the advice to what the man says
and they are all back to square 1 having to look for a way of finding a way to get punters to come to you.uhhh

WaltA

19th of May 2009 (Tue), 15:15

Interesting thread Matthew. Thanks for generating this discussion.

With a quick peek at your web site I have to say that although I do think you come on a bit "strong" you actually follow the same business logic when approaching clients as I do. I'm not a pro photographer, but I am an IT Architect in the AeroSpace industry.
And your "I have to learn your business before I can build your web site" is a philosophy I have subscribed to for 20 years in my field - and quite successfully, if I may say so myself - at building technology solutions.

I will be following this thread and your web site with interest.

yogestee

19th of May 2009 (Tue), 16:52

If you don't want free advice, don't listen. I'm building awareness and making my voice heard in a public forum. I'm a designer that has a passion for photography.

But what experience have you had in pro-photography??

Karl Johnston

19th of May 2009 (Tue), 16:58

But what experience have you had in pro-photography??
That's opening a can of worms bw!

WaltA

19th of May 2009 (Tue), 17:07

I don't think thats got anything to do with it. What I read on his web site and in his posts here is that he wants to educate photographers on how to use the social media (websites and blogs) to promote their business.

To reach that goal, I think it would be more important to have experience in marketing and web design than experience in photography.

Sorry - not trying to speak for the OP here - just wanted to make a comment on the "experience" question that Jurgen raised.

sitedesigner

19th of May 2009 (Tue), 20:31

photoguy6405

19th of May 2009 (Tue), 21:41

There are plenty of fantastic photographers that have been utter failures in business because they are also lousy businesspeople.

That said, each individual's experience notwithstanding, there is no *one* way to successfully market oneself, just as there is no *one* way to produce good photos.

yogestee

19th of May 2009 (Tue), 22:48

You got it Walt. My professional experience is website design and marketing. I have even shot a wedding for a gift certificate once. ;) I have developed websites for many professional photographers, so I know enough about the business.

When I design an identity or website for a client I get in and learn as much about the industry as I can, so I would consider myself well-versed in pro photography.

We all do what we do. I design websites and do marketing.

I'd never hire a plumber to work on my car.

Any chance of marketing me successfully are very slim because of where I live and the photography I do.. You can count the number of pro-photographers shooting my kind of work on the fingers of one hand.. Most photography good or bad is done by "a guy with a camera".. I work for aid NGOs and there is never enough money to go around so most of my work is on a pro rata basis because I love this type of work..

Photographers are hired by word of mouth not via blogs or websites.. I'm well know in this community but paid work is sparse..

I'm sure you can market photographers in a large potential client base shooting main stream work but with me you are flogging a dead horse!!

Karl Johnston

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 01:26

Jurgen, what kind of work do you do ? Editorial and journalism? You have very good shots on your portfolio; I specifically like http://www.pbase.com/jurgentreue/image/99993404 this.

Picture North Carolina

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 05:44

Busy people (I.e., potential clients), do not have time, nor do they take the time, to brew a cup of coffee and sit there reading the daily musings of a photographer they don't know nor really care about. As a consumer they care about price and/or quality - with the mixture of each varying with each person.

Do you take the time to read the musings of your plumber? Your barber? Or do you just want them to fix your drip and cut your hair so you can get on with your life?

sitedesigner

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 08:39

I'm surprised you are comparing the profession of photography to a plumber or barber. Not that I'm trying to discredit at all what they do as they both require a great deal of skill (and certainly jobs I could never do), but there is a time and a place for a blog.

I'm beginning to realize that some of you feel a blog is just for ranting and writing nonsense.

Depending on what level of photography you produce and what area of photography you focus on, a blog is the PERFECT tool for your business. Lets just pretend you are a wedding photographer. Who is going to be researching and looking for photographers? If you said the bride to be and her mother, you are absolutely RIGHT!

When I got married there weren't too many blogs to read, but you better bet that my wife called many people and got a feel for what type of person they were. We didn't just sit around and look at pictures.

I completely disagree with your take on "busy people". I don't know what your specialty is in the world of photography, but I guarantee people aren't going to go to the next Joe Schmoe just because his photos are cheaper than the next.

I'm telling you guys; times are changing.

If you are a full time photographer feeding your family with your paycheck, you had better start thinking hard about social media and getting your "voice" out there.

photoguy6405

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 09:09

I find it interesting that so many are discounting the entire premise based on why it probably wouldn't work for their own narrowly focused niche, while (apparently) failing to realize that what they have carved out for themselves wouldn't work for so many others.

If you live and work in a country with only two other photogs, then your current experience relates to almost no one else on this board. And of course a blog probably would not help in that type of scenario. But to expand that very unique scenario to the rest of the world doesn't work either.

Regarding "busy people"... if you're talking about corporate execs needing a stock photo, I agree they're probably not going to sit back and read a blog. If you're talking about a mother and daughter planning a wedding, they just might. Maybe not the whole thing, and probably not after the wedding, but it might attract them initially and set the photog apart from the crowd. Sure they're busy, that's what they choose to be busy with.

I'm not sold on the OP's ideas just yet, but I do find them intriguing. If nothing else, I can see a blog maybe attracting search engine attention, and that in itself would be a positive. I'm not sure if I'd care if anybody actually read my blog, but if it caused an increase in site visits from search engines, and resulting sales, I'd consider it time well spent. No different than McDonald's putting up a billboard, really. The idea is to get more traffic in the store, not impress people with a big photo of a Big Mac.

I don't even see where it would have to be all that time consuming. If you spend any amount of time marketing already, then this is a few minutes a month writing a couple paragraphs as an update... DIY marketing, basically. No big deal.

sitedesigner

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 09:31

People buy based on what other people do and say. Seeing the conversations and testimonials on certain photos and information would increase the chances of initial contact and purchase decisions.

Oh, BTW... what are you guys referring to me as "the OP"? :confused:

photoguy6405

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 09:56

Oh, BTW... what are you guys referring to me as "the OP"? :confused:

OP = Original Poster... the person who started the thread... that would be you.

If you're going to claim to be internet savvy, you should know that. ;)

Sorry, couldn't resist. :lol:

sitedesigner

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 09:59

Cool thanks. I'm not down with all the forum acronyms yet. :rolleyes:

joedlh

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 10:02

Blogs, social networking, twitter, all the hot new stuff on the Internet works for people who have a lot of time on their hands or who are looking for some kind of affirmation. I'm too busy and I don't need anybody to tell me how great I am. If somebody looking for photographic services wants to see a blog before a portfolio, I'm not sure I'd want that person as a client.

yogestee

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 10:06

Depending on what level of photography you produce and what area of photography you focus on, a blog is the PERFECT tool for your business. Lets just pretend you are a wedding photographer. Who is going to be researching and looking for photographers? If you said the bride to be and her mother, you are absolutely RIGHT!

Let's just pretend you are the project manager of an NGO dealing in community health looking to hire a photographer to shoot a sanitation project in a developing country..Where do you go??

sitedesigner

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 10:09

If you are busy and you are making money, then more power to you and congratulations!

The secret, Joe, is it starts a communication. Similar to this forum posting. I have started a communication on the subject. I'm not looking for any kind of affirmation. I'm here to inform and develop a dialogue.

Another tip we've reiterated is the blog draws in search traffic through search engines. It's much more difficult to do that with a bunch of pictures in a portfolio.

sitedesigner

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 10:15

Let's just pretend you are the project manager of an NGO dealing in community health looking to hire a photographer to shoot a sanitation project in a developing country..Where do you go??

Exactly, yogestee. Thanks for driving home my point.

When your services cater more towards a specialized area such as your hypothetical scenario, it's even that much more important to talk about the projects you are working on in a blog format.

yogestee

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 10:19

Exactly, yogestee. Thanks for driving home my point.

When your services cater more towards a specialized area such as your hypothetical scenario, it's even that much more important to talk about the projects you are working on in a blog format.

This is not a hypothetical scenario,,this is the real world.. I'm working on a project for an NGO and how did they know about me?? Word of mouth not through a blog..

photoguy6405

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 10:19

Blogs, social networking, twitter, all the hot new stuff on the Internet works for people who have a lot of time on their hands or who are looking for some kind of affirmation. I'm too busy and I don't need anybody to tell me how great I am.
There ya go. You don't need, or want, any new clients. Doing anything extra would not be for you.

If somebody looking for photographic services wants to see a blog before a portfolio, I'm not sure I'd want that person as a client.
Please explain this. Why would somebody reading a blog somehow make them an undesirable customer?

joedlh

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 10:19

If you are busy and you are making money, then more power to you and congratulations!

I'm busy, yes. I didn't mean to imply that I'm making money.

The secret, Joe, is it starts a communication. Similar to this forum posting. I have started a communication on the subject. I'm not looking for any kind of affirmation. I'm here to inform and develop a dialogue.

Another tip we've reiterated is the blog draws in search traffic through search engines. It's much more difficult to do that with a bunch of pictures in a portfolio.

I build data-driven web sites for a living. So you might think that I would be on your side. Sorry, but I still don't buy it. My advice to somebody who has the time to wade through the first five pages of a Google search is: get a life. Go out and do something.

sitedesigner

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 10:20

This is not a hypothetical scenario,,this is the real world.. I'm working on a project for an NGO and how did they know about me?? Word of mouth not through a blog..

That's really cool!

You should BLOG about it when the project is complete! ;)

photoguy6405

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 10:22

This is not a hypothetical scenario,,this is the real world.. I'm working on a project for an NGO and how did they know about me?? Word of mouth not through a blog..
You keep saying this as if that's the ONLY way to drum up business.

yogestee

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 10:22

That's really cool!

You should BLOG about it when the project is complete! ;)

Nah!! Waste of time..

yogestee

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 10:24

You keep saying this as if that's the ONLY way to drum up business.

Not the only way to drum up business but the only way that works for me..

Remember I'm way in the left field away from main stream photography..

sitedesigner

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 10:26

Communication is shifting to the online sphere.
Conversations are happening online as much as they are in person, if not more.

To have conversations in the social sphere with information on a blog to reiterate the conversations is as powerful, if not more than traditional offline word of mouth.

sitedesigner

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 10:27

I'm busy, yes. I didn't mean to imply that I'm making money.

I build data-driven web sites for a living. So you might think that I would be on your side. Sorry, but I still don't buy it. My advice to somebody who has the time to wade through the first five pages of a Google search is: get a life. Go out and do something.

With a blog your clients wouldn't have to wade through 5 pages of google results.

Additionally, most results that are not on the first page rarely get clicked, but that's an entirely new series of blog posts.

photoguy6405

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 10:28

Not the only way to drum up business but the only way that works for me..
...which is totally cool. If it works it works.

Remember I'm way in the left field away from main stream photography..
Which is kind of my point. You have a very unique situation.

sitedesigner

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 10:29

Remember I'm way in the left field away from main stream photography..

You make a valid point, but to talk about what you do on the web and allow the world to see it would be quite remarkable.

Unfortunately, some see it as gloating and self-affirming and it probably wouldn't happen.

cgatto

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 10:39

So when do you intend to draw the second part of this chapter into the equation (actually starting a blog)?

I think some people may be less skeptical if you have some sort or real results or processes to show.

photoguy6405

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 10:42

...some see it as gloating and self-affirming and it probably wouldn't happen.

Isn't saying "(Look at me.) I have plenty of people singing my praises (aka "word of mouth") and beating down my doors that I don't need to do it myself.", a form of gloating and self-affirmation in it's own way?

I gotta stop. I'm gonna get myself in trouble. I'm definitely in a mood today. :p

joedlh

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 10:43

Social media and blogging is the new way of networking. Those that embrace this fact will succeed.

Allow me to rephrase that.

Social media and blogging is the current hot new fad. Those that embrace this fact will spend a lot of time spinning their wheels.

Twitter had a 30% user retention rate after one month. It went up to 40% after Oprah touted it. Facebook or MySpace -- can't remember which -- has plummeting revenue because it's no longer the hot new fad. Take my advice. Spend more time on a portfolio and a business card with your portfolio's web site.

This world moves too fast to try and show your face and be out there.

You must now show your voice and be out there.

Along with seventy million other bloggers. And this is a figure from 2005!. Yeah. I get it now.
http://www.blogherald.com/2005/07/19/blog-count-for-july-70-million-blogs/

sitedesigner

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 10:44

If you are referring to me, I already have a blog at http://matthewhuggins.com

Results you say? I will be preparing a blog post of my own that will detail what all happened here and provide detailed analytics of where visitors to my blog came from, how long they stayed, what all they looked at and show you how the conversation will be forever etched into the social sphere and how that information will be beneficial.

I will also be writing blog posts that teach you what you need to know to establish a strong web presence for yourself.

This is only just beginning!

sitedesigner

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 10:53

Allow me to rephrase that.

Social media and blogging is the current hot new fad. Those that embrace this fact will spend a lot of time spinning their wheels.

Twitter had a 30% user retention rate after one month. It went up to 40% after Oprah touted it. Facebook or MySpace -- can't remember which -- has plummeting revenue because it's no longer the hot new fad. Take my advice. Spend more time on a portfolio and a business card with your portfolio's web site.

Along with seventy million other bloggers. And this is a figure from 2005!. Yeah. I get it now.
http://www.blogherald.com/2005/07/19/blog-count-for-july-70-million-blogs/

Yes, you have your facts straight.

Many people fall off of Twitter because they do not know how to use it. I frequently get business and business inquiries using it.

Yep, there are a ton of bloggers and for good reason.

They KNOW it works.

Remember, by trade I build websites, consult in social media implementation and design identity systems for people.

I consider myself an expert in getting relevant, targeted traffic to a website or blog.

Yes, there are millions of them out there, but it's actually quite simple to get very interested and targeted visitors to your own site.

If you would rather walk around and hand out a business card or two to a few people here and there, go for it.

I will be working on sending thousands of pre-qualified visitors to my sites each month.

sitedesigner

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 10:55

There is a power transition from marketers pushing messages to customers wanting to pull the information they want for a product a service to fit into their life.

It doesn't matter how saturated the market is or the retention rate of social media these are just tools to perform a greater good content is what customers want the blog is simply a tool to communicate this content that is important to the customer.

photoguy6405

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 10:55

Social media and blogging is the current hot new fad. Those that embrace this fact will spend a lot of time spinning their wheels.

Twitter had a 30% user retention rate after one month. It went up to 40% after Oprah touted it. Facebook or MySpace -- can't remember which -- has plummeting revenue because it's no longer the hot new fad. Take my advice. Spend more time on a portfolio and a business card with your portfolio's web site.

Why not do both... card/portfolio and blog? Facebook is the current fad, MySpace is falling. So, you expose on FB while it's hot and you move to the next one when it gets hot and FB fades. Yes, there are some things that will remain "tried and true", but that does not preclude one from keeping up with the times, either. Why should the two be mutually exclusive?

Marketing is all about adapting to the times and not staying static. Even your example of a portfolio website is a perfect example of this. Technically, based on your dismissal of anything new and trendy, photographers should still restrict their marketing to in-person client meetings and showing leather-bound portfoilios... and not anything so fly-by-night as a website.

sitedesigner

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 10:57

sitedesigner

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 11:01

sitedesigner

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 11:13

Here's something to consider...

Through the analytics software I use I'm able to determine precisely where visitors to my blogs and sites are coming from, what they look at, how long they stay, what type of computer they have, what their screen resolution is, what operating system they have, in addition to hundreds of other data points.

You can do amazing things with that information.

If only they put GPS in business cards. ;)

WaltA

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 11:42

I left this thread last night and it has blossomed.

Just wanted to comment on an earlier post - by Jurgen I think, who said all his work is brought in by word of mouth. And I have to say my work in my IT world it comes the same way. However, word of mouth is no longer one person talking to another. When I started in this business in the 70's it was that way.

However, sometime in the 90's it became one person emailing another.

Now I connect to my clients and potential clients thru linkedin.com where they can see my experience and goals and what I'm working on now.

And I find out whats going on in the AeroSpace industry by reading on-line trade magazines and new articles. Its a different world.

I'm not saying it works for everyone (and everyones niche market) but I'm saying there are a number of tools out there to gather business if you want to use them and if you need them.

spkerer

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 12:44

Ok, so maybe the original title of this post was a little too strong. Maybe it should have been: How To Use a Blog As a Tool To Get Content To Visitors That Want To Read the Content, But Only If You Want Them To Read The Content.:p

Ok, NOW I can agree with you. Blogging is a tool, one of many, that can be used to attract potential clients. Your start of this thread came across almost as "drop everything else and BLOG." That's what turned me off - that and the strong sell your message entailed.

I completely agree with you that blogging is a useful tool to help increase exposure. There are lots of tools and some may choose to use it, some may not. Making an informed decision NOT to use a particular tool is smarter than spending time following every latest trend just because... well, its the latest.

To suggest that "a photographer that is not blogging is not smart" is just plain ... un-smart. A photographer that blogs just because they think blogging is the rage, but has no idea what they're doing isn't particularly smart either. (go ahead, respond with plug for how you will teach them to know what they're doing when blogging).

photoguy6405

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 12:51

Ok, NOW I can agree with you. Blogging is a tool, one of many, that can be used to attract potential clients. Your start of this thread came across almost as "drop everything else and BLOG." That's what turned me off - that and the strong sell your message entailed.

I completely agree with you that blogging is a useful tool to help increase exposure. There are lots of tools and some may choose to use it, some may not. Making an informed decision NOT to use a particular tool is smarter than spending time following every latest trend just because... well, its the latest.

To suggest that "a photographer that is not blogging is not smart" is just plain ... un-smart. A photographer that blogs just because they think blogging is the rage, but has no idea what they're doing isn't particularly smart either. (go ahead, respond with plug for how you will teach them to know what they're doing when blogging).

Fair post.

sitedesigner

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 14:57

spkerer

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 16:07

Stay tuned... I'll teach you how to blog the right way.

meh... thanks for the offer, but I think I'll pass.

Actually, I'll just watch the threads. I'm curious, but not interested in blogging. I've never really been able to stick with reading anyone's blogs - and I have followed some good ones.

As far as me blogging, well... this is just a hobby for me. I don't have any desire to expand it into a business or cultivate a following. So for me the idea of adding the extra task of blogging doesn't interest me. Perhaps in the future it will.

I hope this comes across the right way. Either you've toned it down a bit or my perception's changed, or a bit of both, but I don't hear "Billy Mays" anymore. :)

photoguy6405

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 16:28

I hope this comes across the right way. Either you've toned it down a bit or my perception's changed, or a bit of both, but I don't hear "Billy Mays" anymore. :)

I'm intrigued by the idea, though I'll admit that there is a part of me that is wondering "What's the catch?". The information thus far is enough to pique my interest, but seems just quite... not enough... to actually help me. I'm going to keep an open mind, though.

WaltA

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 17:25

I've gotta say, call me old fashioned, but I'm somewhat underwhelmed by the blog and twitter social world today. So far, I've found most of what I've run across to be either incredibily inane or so generic that I can't see why it would be of any value to me.

I suppose, if Ansel Adams was blogging from his laptop telling us what he was doing as he travelled around and sharing photo tips .... that might be interesting depending on his literary style.

Although to the question PhotoGuy posed "whats the catch", I would suspect that like any consultant the OP will feed us enough information free to decide if theres a value in it for us - but if we want to really "do it right" we'll have to engage him and thats how he earns his living.

Picture North Carolina

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 19:26

I've gotta say, call me old fashioned, but I'm somewhat underwhelmed by the blog and twitter social world today.

Just for you (if you haven't seen it) - called the funniest twitter video ever made. (and a great explanation of what twitter is).

http://offonatangent.blogspot.com/2009/03/funniest-twitter-video-ever-made-ever.html

yogestee

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 19:34

Ok, here's a question.

How many of you are still using film? How many of you transitioned into digital because you realized film was a fading fad and digital was the way of the future?

See how the film-to-digital and face-to-face-to-website/blog go hand-in-hand?

It's about speed. It's about numbers.

This shows how little you know about photography and therefore lack credibility in these forums.. Tell Ansel Adams, Robert Capa, David Bailey, Dororthea Lange etal they were pursuing a fad you will be laughed at..

Film is/was never a fad but the pioneer of photography as we know it.. After 150 year of ongoing development (pardon the pun) how can anything be a fad??

sitedesigner

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 19:55

This shows how little you know about photography and therefore lack credibility in these forums.. Tell Ansel Adams, Robert Capa, David Bailey, Dororthea Lange etal they were pursuing a fad you will be laughed at..

Film is/was never a fad but the pioneer of photography as we know it.. After 150 year of ongoing development (pardon the pun) how can anything be a fad??

Film is dead. Like Ansel Adams.

Time to move on.

I like when people are ready to pounce on you when you screw up because they don't like what you're saying.

I now lack credibility in these forums because I said film was a fad.

A fad is defined as: a temporary fashion, notion, manner of conduct, etc., esp. one followed enthusiastically by a group. When one things ends and a new one begins, isn't the first considered a fad?

You know what I mean and what point I'm trying to make.

Jaymz

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 20:01

Film is dead. Like Ansel Adams.

Time to move on.

I like when people are ready to pounce on you when you screw up because they don't like what you're saying.

I now lack credibility in these forums because I said film was a fad.

A fad is defined as: a temporary fashion, notion, manner of conduct, etc., esp. one followed enthusiastically by a group. When one things ends and a new one begins, isn't the first considered a fad?

You know what I mean and what point I'm trying to make.

Film is not dead, maybe on life support in ICU but it is not dead.

yogestee

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 20:03

Film is dead. Like Ansel Adams.

Time to move on.

I like when people are ready to pounce on you when you screw up because they don't like what you're saying.

I now lack credibility in these forums because I said film was a fad.

A fad is defined as: a temporary fashion, notion, manner of conduct, etc., esp. one followed enthusiastically by a group. When one things ends and a new one begins, isn't the first considered a fad?

You know what I mean and what point I'm trying to make.

My argument isn't film being dead or not,,my argument is film being a fad..

photoguy6405

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 20:04

The pet rock was a fad. Codpieces were a fad. If film was a fad then everything is a fad. It's just a matter of time.

sitedesigner

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 20:05

My argument isn't film being dead or not,,my argument is film being a fad..

I admit. Bad word choice.

How about film has just about run its course.

yogestee

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 20:19

I admit. Bad word choice.

How about film has just about run its course.

Ahhhhhh... So there's a chance of "bad word choice" writing a blog then??

sitedesigner

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 20:30

Ahhhhhh... So there's a chance of "bad word choice" writing a blog then??

Yep, you've discovered the achilles heel of any written or oral conversation.

S.Horton

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 20:41

In a sense, but not at all. [......].

I stopped reading your thread here.

And if you're trying to figure out how to sell people, don't.

Picture North Carolina

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 22:16

A fad is defined as: a temporary fashion, notion, manner of conduct, etc., esp. one followed enthusiastically by a group.

Like twitter... and blogs. ;) ;)

Picture North Carolina

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 22:18

And if you're trying to figure out how to sell people, don't....

But do keep blogging. The rest of us will keep marketing and selling.

cdifoto

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 22:20

If your photos aren't that great, you need an awesome personality. If you're a true craftsman, you can get away with being a dick.

Mike Photo

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 22:36

I read all the time on these boards peoples responses that are to localized to their niche or type of photography or just their personal way of doing things.
Word of mouth is always going to be a great marketing tool, but what word of mouth is to a wedding or portrait photographer might be different then say an advertising or commercial photographer. social networking is word of mouth, tools like facebook,myspace and linkedin extend your word of mouth network globally. Now not all photography business need a global market as some of you have mentioned, But others do and thats when these ides and tools become important.
A blog can be a trafficing device to string different networks to your website. you can use it in limitless ways to advertise different parts of your buisness not just you as a brand. Maybe you have books out you want to sell or a workshop. Perhaps youre working on personal projects that you dont plan on making money off of but by blogging about them unforseen buissness opertunity come form it. This is something Drew Gardner has been "blogging" about latley.
Lots of Photographers employ staffs at their freelance studios and because of this have the ability to be very busy and have time to Blog and use social media. There is a varying level of size and success in photography it seems people like to forget. An individual can do it all themselves and be equally successful as another photographer who employs half adozen staff members.

I occasionally do consulting for photographers and studios on how to use and benefit from social media and networking. And there is definatly a lot of demand right now for this info. Ive seen lots of photography organizations holding lectures and workshops on how to utilize this tech specificly for photographers. So in certain parts of are very diverse industry the leaders in it see its potential. You can search this forum and find hundreds of famous and leading photographers who are using blogs to sell themselves as well as their work. But its not just Photographers in our industry that are using blogs our clients are as well and thats something I think so far hasnt been pointed out.

sorry for the long post I have more to say but ill stop here for now.
Mike Photo

sitedesigner

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 22:44

Thanks Mike. I've come to realize that a majority of the participants here are either set in their ways, resistant to change, or are simply hobbyists that don't see the need in what I'm talking about.

I have a TON to say about the subject and KNOW that the information I offer could significantly impact the business of a photographer.

I appreciate your insight and hopefully it sheds some light for some others here as well.

I think they need to hear it from a full time professional photographer.

cdifoto

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 22:48

I saw the sales schtick in this thread from the opening post. Soooooo funny! :D

Notice how frequently the OP posted in this very thread? OP knows how much Google likes this forum. That's search engine placement right there, boy. ;) :)

Reminds me of a few other members who eventually got booted. ;) :D

"If you can't make money being a photographer, make money selling something to photographers."

Jaymz

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 22:54

Stay tuned for more posts on this subject as I’ll teach you how to carefully craft a blog that will make you a cinch for the next client hoping to build a relationship with you.

I am still waiting for the next lesson or do I have to buy it? ;)

No I am not really interested. I just see the sales pitch with no delivery..... yet.

sitedesigner

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 22:54

I saw the sales schtick in this thread from the opening post. Soooooo funny! :D

Reminds me of a few other members who eventually got booted. ;) :D

Way to go. Guess what?

I'll never ask any of you to buy anything. It's not a sales schtick, it's a marketing schtick.

Don't you see what I'm doing here? I'm creating a conversation. I'm doing what I'm offering as free advice and you guys are completely convinced that I'm trying to sell you something. It's quite amusing.

sitedesigner

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 22:55

I am still waiting for the next lesson or do I have to buy it? ;)

No I am not really interested. I just see the sales pitch with no delivery..... yet.

Of course you aren't interested. That's why you aren't reading this and you aren't posting to the thread. ;)

cdifoto

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 22:57

Way to go. Guess what?

I'll never ask any of you to buy anything. It's not a sales schtick, it's a marketing schtick.

Don't you see what I'm doing here? I'm creating a conversation. I'm doing what I'm offering as free advice and you guys are completely convinced that I'm trying to sell you something. It's quite amusing.
LOL. We're businessmen. We can see the sales pitch a mile away. Not to mention the dead giveaway:

Do you need a blog and don’t know where to begin. Contact me if you would like more info.

I knew the script to the "conversation" between my car salesman and I before pulling into their parking lot. ;)

EDIT: Furthermore, as a businessman, I am VERY careful and cynical about where I spend my hard-earned revenue. ;)

Jaymz

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 23:04

Of course you aren't interested. That's why you aren't reading this and you aren't posting to the thread. ;)

Its an interesting read, seeing the banter back and forth. You speak of all this great need-to-know info but have yet to deliver.

You are just a source of entertainment for 5-10 minutes for me. ;)

I dont need a blog for my photography business... I dont run one. I use my blog to write mindless crap like most people do. :)

sitedesigner

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 23:06

LOL. We're businessmen. We can see the sales pitch a mile away. Not to mention the dead giveaway:

I knew the script to the "conversation" between my car salesman and I before pulling into their parking lot. ;)

It's ok if you don't understand marketing.

I realize that my methods are beyond you.

It's a natural response to feel like you are being sold to or spammed or scammed when someone offers free advice.

I've completed my mission by simply having this conversation with you right now.

For that, I thank you. ;)

cdifoto

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 23:06

It's ok if you don't understand marketing.

I realize that my methods are beyond you.

It's a natural response to feel like you are being sold to or spammed or scammed when someone offers free advice.

I've completed my mission by simply having this conversation with you right now.

For that, I thank you. ;)
:lol:

:rolleyes:

sitedesigner

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 23:10

Its an interesting read, seeing the banter back and forth. You speak of all this great need-to-know info but have yet to deliver.

You are just a source of entertainment for 5-10 minutes for me. ;)

I dont need a blog for my photography business... I dont run one. I use my blog to write mindless crap like most people do. :)

I have TONS of information I'll be delivering. It takes time to write. Who knows... it might help you spread the mindless crap that you write and broaden your reach. :lol:

Jaymz

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 23:18

I have TONS of information I'll be delivering. It takes time to write. Who knows... it might help you spread the mindless crap that you write and broaden your reach. :lol:

Just a thought...

You could spend less time here trying to convince people they need you and more time writting it? ;)

I highly doubt non-family members would be interested in my blog, since its for my family thats spread all over the world.

sitedesigner

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 23:27

Just a thought...

You could spend less time here trying to convince people they need you and more time writting it? ;)

I highly doubt non-family members would be interested in my blog, since its for my family thats spread all over the world.

That's good advice. I think for now I'll get some sleep. Have a good night.

cdifoto

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 23:38

I have TONS of information I'll be delivering. It takes time to write.
That's good advice. I think for now I'll get some sleep. Have a good night.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sm5SZp7PGEg

:D

Jaymz

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 23:40

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sm5SZp7PGEg

:D

Excellent. :lol:

sitedesigner

20th of May 2009 (Wed), 23:43

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sm5SZp7PGEg

:D

Either all my efforts are in vain or If at first you don't succeed, try, try, try again.

sitedesigner

21st of May 2009 (Thu), 07:24

I hope to have the next installment ready by tomorrow.

photoguy6405

21st of May 2009 (Thu), 10:15

WaltA

21st of May 2009 (Thu), 10:19

If your photos aren't that great, you need an awesome personality. If you're a true craftsman, you can get away with being a dick.

Thats going in my "Quotable quotes" database.

Awesome.

sitedesigner

21st of May 2009 (Thu), 11:21

I almost hate to bring up this person's name, as he seems to have some weird effect on people and his name sends threads way off track, but...

...would Ken Rockwell be an example of what 'blogging' can bring in as business?

Key word: can... not will.

YES. Exactly. His expertise obviously comes through with his posts. He more than likely draws in thousands of hits a day with all of that information. You can guarantee he gets plenty of inquiries on doing specific work.

Another point I plan on making is how you will begin getting searches based on a combination of keywords from different posts.

joedlh

21st of May 2009 (Thu), 11:38

Originally Posted by photoguy6405 http://photography-on-the.net/forum/images/buttons/viewpost.gif (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?p=7963047#post7963047)
I almost hate to bring up this person's name, as he seems to have some weird effect on people and his name sends threads way off track, but...

...would Ken Rockwell be an example of what 'blogging' can bring in as business?

YES. Exactly. His expertise obviously comes through with his posts. He more than likely draws in thousands of hits a day with all of that information. You can guarantee he gets plenty of inquiries on doing specific work.

Touche, Photoguy. Trap placed, set, SNAP! Credibility down the drain. Precious.

It's curious to me how marketing gurus can tell you how to (attempt to) sell anything to anybody but don't feel the need to know anything in depth about what they're selling. It's like there's marketing over here and everything else over there and never the twain need meet.

cdifoto

21st of May 2009 (Thu), 11:55

Marketing gurus are a funny breed. Instead of selling something to consumers, they sell the hope of selling something to people who are trying to sell something to consumers. They can't be called out for defective advice because they can claim that the sellers trying to sell aren't selling correctly per their advice.

Picture North Carolina

21st of May 2009 (Thu), 12:04

...would Ken Rockwell be an example of what 'blogging' can bring in as business?

YES. Exactly.

No, not exactly. Apples and oranges and a good example of the fact you just don't get it.

The majority of Ken Rockwell's readership are people with a similar interest: photography. They are not his clients.

If you are interested in '57 Chevys or organic gardening, you will read blogs about those subjects.

Your original post (the content of your blog) spoke about blogging to clients, not to hobbyists with a similar interest. They (clients) don't give a D about your interests or hobbies or your musings on same. The do care about the quality of your work and the price - information they can glean from a website.

And as I previously said, busy people (CLIENTS) don't, and won't, take the time to read your blog. They just don't care.

Completely different sector, and a really misinformed analysis and example.

cdifoto

21st of May 2009 (Thu), 12:25

Picture North Carolina

21st of May 2009 (Thu), 12:29

I only blog because it's easier to post images inline than to my website's flash gallery. I don't really push it or promote it beyond a link in my signature (sometimes) and the link on my website. Generally speaking I think blogs are kinda lame.

Which is another good point. The goal is to get examples and (perhaps) prices in front of your customers. It really doesn't matter if that is via a blog or website.

But the thought that a busy potential customer would come to a website to discover prices and samples but would then want to go on to spend time reading the ramblings and musings of the photographer is a thought that is borne from a delusional self-importance.

photoguy6405

21st of May 2009 (Thu), 12:36

Which is another good point. The goal is to get examples and (perhaps) prices in front of your customers. It really doesn't matter if that is via a blog or website.
Bingo!

But the thought that a busy potential customer would come to a website to discover prices and samples but would then want to go on to spend time reading the ramblings and musings of the photographer is a thought that is borne from a delusional self-importance.
I can't speak for the OP, but as for me I couldn't care less if they actually read the blog or not. I just want them to find me (and buy stuff), and if a blog helps them find me in a search engine result, so be it.

But as a complete side note, some just might. Some people actually enjoy that stuff. Not everybody is that busy. Not everybody thinks like you or me. Not even close.

sitedesigner

21st of May 2009 (Thu), 12:39

No, not exactly. Apples and oranges and a good example of the fact you just don't get it.

The majority of Ken Rockwell's readership are people with a similar interest: photography. They are not his clients.

If you are interested in '57 Chevys or organic gardening, you will read blogs about those subjects.

Your original post (the content of your blog) spoke about blogging to clients, not to hobbyists with a similar interest. They (clients) don't give a D about your interests or hobbies or your musings on same. The do care about the quality of your work and the price - information they can glean from a website.

And as I previously said, busy people (CLIENTS) don't, and won't, take the time to read your blog. They just don't care.

Completely different sector, and a really misinformed analysis and example.

You're exactly right. Ken's targeted market is obviously photographers.

Take a close look at Ken Rockwell's site. Do you notice that one of his main navigation buttons is to a Workshops section?

That's right. Ken offers workshops to the thousands of visitors (photographers) that come to his site.

He offers an immense amount of free advice and has a product that he is selling in Workshops. If someone came to his site based on a keyword search because they wanted to read a product review, then clicked on the Workshops section and signed up for a workshop, wouldn't that make them a client?

Don't you see that he offers consulting over the phone for $500.00 per hour and day rates at $3000/day?

C'mon guys, don't you get it by now?

Don't think so narrow-minded. Ken is brilliant and knows that 5% of the people that come onto his site will have a need that goes beyond his free advice.

I originally spoke about potential clients coming to your site and reading about existing/current clients and what the photographer did/does for them.

Again... I'm offering free advice. Take it or leave it. Or, try to "set a trap" for me and get me to stumble over what I'm saying for your own amusement.

I'm cool with it either way because I have you talking and conversing about the subject. ;)

What a funny breed I've become. :lol:

cdifoto

21st of May 2009 (Thu), 12:41

Which is another good point. The goal is to get examples and (perhaps) prices in front of your customers. It really doesn't matter if that is via a blog or website.

But the thought that a busy potential customer would come to a website to discover prices and samples but would then want to go on to spend time reading the ramblings and musings of the photographer is a thought that is borne from a delusional self-importance.
Yeah I rarely have anything to say that I think anyone else would even remotely care about. That's why I keep my posts to relevant text only, and it's very minimal. For the most part I simply put up a short intro to the images then the images. I let a little bit of my personality shine through on the intro but that's about it. I don't blog every time I buy new underwear.

cdifoto

21st of May 2009 (Thu), 12:43

You're exactly right. Ken's targeted market is obviously photographers.

Take a close look at Ken Rockwell's site. Do you notice that one of his main navigation buttons is to a Workshops section?

That's right. Ken offers workshops to the thousands of visitors (photographers) that come to his site.

He offers an immense amount of free advice and has a product that he is selling in Workshops. If someone came to his site based on a keyword search because they wanted to read a product review, then clicked on the Workshops section and signed up for a workshop, wouldn't that make them a client?

Don't you see that he offers consulting over the phone for $500.00 per hour and day rates at $3000/day?

C'mon guys, don't you get it by now?

Don't think so narrow-minded. Ken is brilliant and knows that 5% of the people that come onto his site will have a need that goes beyond his free advice.

I originally spoke about potential clients coming to your site and reading about existing/current clients and what the photographer did/does for them.

Again... I'm offering free advice. Take it or leave it. Or, try to "set a trap" for me and get me to stumble over what I'm saying for your own amusement.

I'm cool with it either way because I have you talking and conversing about the subject. ;)

What a funny breed I've become. :lol:
If you read the fine print on his website, he admits that the entire thing is a big joke as a hobby and way to screw around. It's not serious or even meant to be.

sitedesigner

21st of May 2009 (Thu), 12:43

I only blog because it's easier to post images inline than to my website's flash gallery. I don't really push it or promote it beyond a link in my signature (sometimes) and the link on my website. Generally speaking I think blogs are kinda lame, especially since I'm more of a "here are my pics, if you like what you see, give me a call" kinda guy than a "I am a superstar, hire me because I'm a superstar" kinda guy.

That's a typical view on blogs and that's ok. You don't realize the full potential of having a blog and how it can impact your business.

It's not about superstardom. It's about sharing knowledge and cultivating a conversation.

Stay tuned to my posts and I'll teach you how to make a great use of your blog.

Mike Photo

21st of May 2009 (Thu), 12:44

I dont want to come across as defending the OP cause i'm not complete agreement or disagreement with him.
Cannedheat you make a good point which I agree with but you also miss the hidden advantages of all that traffic.
To use a familiar example Strobist. lets say 99% of all traffic on strobist is not client based but people who are photographers or hobyists who want to learn about photography, which I think we can all agree is true. What youre not seeing is the impact dave hobby gets from having that blog in his name. His name as a brand in the photo industry is being spread by word of mouth through out the industry. Think about how often his name is tossed around on this an other forums all that internet chatter of his name increases the likely hood of his sites being found at the top tiers of searches for clients. Also when someone not in the know askes someone in the industry for names of good Photographers in a specific field his Highly visible name from blogging on strobist among other ventures that developed because of his blog, is more likely to be known and given out by said photographers.
I follow many photographers of all levels blogs and I can tell you there are several I would recommend to someone in their state or country if asked, not just because of their work but just like customer service goes a long way with word of mouth having a feeling of the person behind the lens or seeing that other photographer in the industry go to them for advice tells me they have a high level of value beyond their work. Ive assisted many great photographers whos work I highly admire but who I think are arrogant horrible people to be around, with no sense of customer service. Again Being highly skilled in your craft does not mean you know how to run a business or care about customer concerns. This goes for wedding photographers aswell as advertising Photographers.
At a recent asmp table lecture here in Boston several agency's remarked that they were utilizing social media to find clients as well as stock photography.
I wouldn't say that by not Blogging you'll fall behind but to say that these tools are usless and have no place in our industry is equally misguided.
Mike Photo

cdifoto

21st of May 2009 (Thu), 12:45

That's a typical view on blogs and that's ok. You don't realize the full potential of having a blog and how it can impact your business.

It's not about superstardom. It's about sharing knowledge and cultivating a conversation.
Blogs aren't conversations; they're monologues. At best you show off some work and let people see your personality as well as can be done through text. And that's fine, but it's not a requirement for success. It's just one ingredient.

Stay tuned to my posts and I'll teach you how to make a great use of your blog.
Yeah, we've been tuned but all we're getting is static.

photoguy6405

21st of May 2009 (Thu), 12:48

Yeah I rarely have anything to say that I think anyone else would even remotely care about. That's why I keep my posts to relevant text only, and it's very minimal. For the most part I simply put up a short intro to the images then the images. I let a little bit of my personality shine through on the intro but that's about it. I don't blog every time I buy new underwear.

I don't see why it would have to be. What you describe is close to what I have in mind. A paragraph or two here and there, and even then only when it's warranted. Could be once a month, maybe even only a handful of times a year, doesn't have to be every day.

sitedesigner

21st of May 2009 (Thu), 12:49

If you read the fine print on his website, he admits that the entire thing is a big joke as a hobby and way to screw around. It's not serious or even meant to be.

Awesome. That validates what you all have been saying all along. Blogs are lame and a big waste of time.

I know for a fact his site averages 10,000+ visitors per day. Not bad.

Look at the power and influence 1 guy has over the world of photography. I guarantee you he's making a decent passive living off of this site.

Not a bad waste of time in my opinion.

Picture North Carolina

21st of May 2009 (Thu), 12:49

You're exactly right. Ken's targeted market is obviously photographers.

Which is why the example was so poor.

Again... I'm offering free advice. Take it or leave it.

I appreciate your kind gesture, but I think I'll pass.

Or, try to "set a trap" for me and get me to stumble over what I'm saying for your own amusement.

Perhaps more delusional self-importance. Nobody has the time, nor the need, to "set a trap" for you. You've done an adequate job of tripping over yourself.

I'm cool with it either way because I have you talking and conversing about the subject.

Well, yes. We're talking about what many believe is bad advice from you, so yes - that's an accurate statement.

Picture North Carolina

21st of May 2009 (Thu), 12:50

I don't blog every time I buy new underwear.

Well, that would properly be a "tweet" anyway. :) ;)

sitedesigner

21st of May 2009 (Thu), 12:52

Blogs aren't conversations; they're monologues. At best you show off some work and let people see your personality as well as can be done through text. And that's fine, but it's not a requirement for success. It's just one ingredient.

Yeah, we've been tuned but all we're getting is static.

Blogs done correctly create conversations.

sitedesigner

21st of May 2009 (Thu), 12:55

Which is why the example was so poor.

I appreciate your kind gesture, but I think I'll pass.

Perhaps more delusional self-importance. Nobody has the time, nor the need, to "set a trap" for you. You've done an adequate job of tripping over yourself.

Well, yes. We're talking about what many believe is bad advice from you, so yes - that's an accurate statement.

Unfortunately, some people take their own credibility down a notch or two engaging in conversations they know nothing about.

It usually happens when they are resistant to change and have nothing better to do.

;) :D

sitedesigner

21st of May 2009 (Thu), 14:24

I'm going to provide you guys with GOBS of market research. I'm hoping this will help you in deciding if a blog is right for you.

Picture North Carolina

21st of May 2009 (Thu), 14:26

I'm going to provide you guys with GOBS of market research. I'm hoping this will help you in deciding if a blog is right for you.

Keep the thread going, right Matthew? Keep the thread going. ;)

joedlh

21st of May 2009 (Thu), 14:27

Well, that would properly be a "tweet" anyway. :) ;)

PLEASE:( Do not get sitedesigner started on the business benefits of smart twittering now!

cdifoto

21st of May 2009 (Thu), 14:29

I'm going to provide you guys with GOBS of market research. I'm hoping this will help you in deciding if a blog is right for you.
Decide? What? We have a choice?? I thought you already decreed err I mean decided that it is. Remember? You rammed it down our throats like a keg stand.

sitedesigner

21st of May 2009 (Thu), 14:31

PLEASE:( Do not get sitedesigner started on the business benefits of smart twittering now!

Yep. Were only just beginning. Better unsubscribe now if you're here just to be negative. :p

Picture North Carolina

21st of May 2009 (Thu), 14:43

PLEASE:( Do not get sitedesigner started on the business benefits of smart twittering now!

I know what you mean. ;)

But that was actually for CDIfoto's remark about blogging about buying underwear. I reminded him that was more fit to be a tweet:

E.g.:

"I'm at the store now! I'm buying underwear! Does anybody care?"

And of course, the answer is a resounding, unanimous NO!

But then if you think about it, mom cares. After all, didn't she always teach us that if we get into an accident we should always have clean underwear for the doctors? But then again, is that necessary? What if the physical injury I receive causes me to soil my pants? Then the whole philosophy of having clean underwear....

WAIT! WHAT AM I DOING? I'm endlessly rambling on about stuff nobody cares about. This is gold! GOLD, I TELL YOU!!

According to some in this thread. If I move these ramblings into a blog, it will generate so many new clients that they will break the door down and I will be able to retire in riches by the end of next week!

What an idiot! This is good stuff. Excuse me... I'm off to the riches of blogville!

nphsbuckeye

21st of May 2009 (Thu), 14:44

This thread is kind of like a politician's speech: a lot of what I will and can do, but not much action.

sitedesigner

21st of May 2009 (Thu), 14:51

Here's part two in my "free advice" series.

1. Search Engines LOVE them
Google is a big fan of blogs along with all other major search engines. The main reason is the constantly updated content. (That is if you update your blog) Blogs make it easy to keep your clients and potential clients informed on what you are up to.
You can carefully craft your blog to ensure that search engines are in tune to exactly what you are posting exactly when you do it. You can also make minor modifications to your blog to take complete advantage of how a search engine views your website and indexes your information. Pretty soon, after you have made some posts to your blog, you will begin to get visitors that are coming from internet searches.
I will write a follow up blog post that will show you a great free service that will allow you to analyze your web traffic and find out how people are getting to your site, where they are coming from, what they look at and how long they stay.
By the way that you write your content and format your blog, you can gain tons of valuable, localized and targeted search traffic. ALL FOR FREE!

2. It’s Not ALL About the Pictures
Potential clients want to get to know you. Many consumers do research online before ever making a phone call when purchasing or inquiring about products or services. The more information you can offer to these visitors, the better.
With a blog, you can inform visitors of what you are up to, offer up some great advice and give detailed information about photo shoots. By doing this you open the door to a conversation by allowing visitors to comment on your blog posts. This allows the potential client to gain further trust in you and your services. People LOVE to read testimonials and praise.

3. Create a Following
Once your blog is established you can begin to create a following in a variety of ways. One great way is to inform all of your past and current clients of your new blog. You can utilize great email/newsletter software to keep people updated on new blog posts.
With a blog you can allow people to subscribe to your RSS feed. With RSS, clients can follow you by getting your blog posts instantly in their feed readers. I will explain email and RSS in much more detail in a follow up post.
Another IMPORTANT step is to establish accounts at various social media outlets like Facebook and Twitter and have them connected to your blog. Again, more detailed information will be coming soon in a future post.

4. Inform Your Following
I’ve seen some great examples of photographers keeping their followers up-to-date on what is happening with the studio.
a.h.p., wedding photographers out of Denver, CO does a great job at keeping their following engaged and interested in what they are doing.
isaac alongi studios out of Fairway, KS offers insight into what’s happening at his studio in addition to offering great tips and advice for budding photographers. (Offering up free advice is a great idea on your blog. )

5. It’s ALL About the Details
When potential clients find your site from a referral or search they are hoping to learn a little bit more about you. They will be pleased to see the details you have included on each blog post about client shoots, equipment you use, or advice that you offer.
It’s ok to “give” information. Don’t worry about the competition coming by and snatching up your ideas. Your main concern should be potential clients passing you by when they come to your site and there is no information.
People want information and want to connect as much as they want to see your great work!

Stay tuned for more posts on this subject as I’ll teach you how to carefully craft a blog that will make you a cinch for the next client hoping to build a relationship with you.
Please comment and be sure to subscribe to receive future posts on how to have a more impactful web presence.

sitedesigner

21st of May 2009 (Thu), 14:52

This thread is kind of like a politician's speech: a lot of what I will and can do, but not much action.

There you go. Delivered as promised. :D

nphsbuckeye

21st of May 2009 (Thu), 15:11

There you go. Delivered as promised. :D
Spoke too soon.

HYBEagle

21st of May 2009 (Thu), 15:13

Just spent my lunch time read through this thread. Pretty interesting.

yogestee

21st of May 2009 (Thu), 17:10

Here's part two in my "free advice" series.

What comes after the free advice series?? What's stage two, three, four??

Give me your bank account details??

And you reckon your not selling something :rolleyes::rolleyes::rolleyes:

Keep casting that wide net,,maybe you'll catch someone gullible enough..

sitedesigner

21st of May 2009 (Thu), 17:24

What comes after the free advice series?? What's stage two, three, four??

Give me your bank account details??

And you reckon your not selling something :rolleyes::rolleyes::rolleyes:

Keep casting that wide net,,maybe you'll catch someone gullible enough..

Dear POTN Members,

I just want to thank some of you for an amusing experience here. It's thrillingly entertaining to read what some of you come up with.

I reckon this is just typical forum banter. You guys have provided me with exactly what I need.

I now realize that some photographers are stuck in a rut and completely resistant to change.

You know what is even more amusing? The fact that some of you hang onto this thread and put in your two cents when you supposedly don't care about what I say.

As long as you keep up your playful banter, you're showing that you are interested in what I say. And for that, I thank you very much. ;) :D