Business cards ideas help

[tim]

I'm starting to do more photography, and i'm starting to get asked to do photos for people quite often, I think it's about time to get some business cards made up. I'm looking around for good designs, does anyone know of any good resources/examples, or would you like to share your card? Personally I like simple, professional cards, without photos, just an elegant design probably with a few colors and a nice layout.

[DocFrankenstein]

Start from the goal...

Who's your audience?
What are you trying to say?
What shooting do you do?

Do you photograph people or for people?

Photos for the people... by Tim :lol:

BTW: I've never thought the actual colors/design/font/layout matters at all in a business card. It should be as simple as possible IMO, because the potential client/model are not going to decide anything based on the picture on your card. The decision will be based on the conversation with you, then you give them the card. They check your website and give you a call.

[tim]

My audience is people who want photos taken... ;) Photos of people are about all most people are willing to pay for, so that's where i'm aiming.

I don't want to specialise, so the things I have in mind are weddings, baby photos (just asked to do some of these), family portraits (one of them this weekend), and pretty much anything else people want photos of. So it needs to be general.

[DocFrankenstein]

LOL

Model photography by Eric Everhard :D

I know what you mean. Maybe:

"Portrait and wedding photography" by Tim

You don't really want to give the "I shoot everything" expression.

[tim]

lol, I don't mean i'm going to put "I shoot everything" on the card, just that right now I don't have a specialty. I also don't want to put down that i'm a wedding photographer until I have enough experience to know in my own mind that I can do the job well, and enough of a portfolio that others agree. "Portrait and Wedding Photography by Tim" would be good in a few months perhaps, but probably not right now.

I think for now my business name, with contact details and a website will do fine, so long as it's done well. Once I specialise i'll get new cards. Like you say good quality card is a must, i'm not sure whan linen card is, would you care to enlighten me? Last time I had personal cards printed I went and bought specialty paper myself as the store only had basic stock card.

Now I just need a design.

[robertwgross]

Tim Wild Photography carries a direct message.

Also, I would put a photo on the card. For me, it is a photo of me doing the kind of photography that I do.

So, for you, if you had a shot with this... the back of your head, with some bits of cameras and flashes and lights visible, then the subjects sitting for their photo. That carries a message.

Don't be afraid to make up two or three different kinds of cards, each with the same text, but with a different photo to carry a slightly different message.

---Bob Gross---

[tim]

I saw a nice simple card earlier today, image the card in portrait orientation, my name written accross the top, and "photography" written sideways down the long side of the card. Under my name i'd have small writing saying "weddings, events" on seperate lines. Contact details are small, and on the bottom left of the card. I'll post a sample later once I get home to my photoshop PC.

[mgbeach]

I have been in a very similar position recently. This is what I've come up with..

[tim]

Thanks Michael, very nice :)

[Wazza]

.. And I bet it's cheaper to get it printed in USA, and sent back. Locally, 1000 cards cost about US$200.

My uncle is a printer, but as it's not his company, he can't exactly knock 90% off the price. ;)

Something simple, clear, and uncluttered is the way to go. And I like the photo idea. I just won't share my ideas. We could be competing one day. :p

[mgbeach]

1000 cards cost me 35.00USD

[tim]

I just won't share my ideas. We could be competing one day. :p

Nah, there's no way I want to live up in Auckland :p

I don't want photos on the card, and i'm actually happy with black and white for now. Might go color if I can think of a good reason. B&W printing's cheap too.

[cmM]

Personally I like simple, professional cards, without photos, just an elegant design probably with a few colors and a nice layout.
I agree. Simple is great. This is my current business card:

http://www.cmuntean.net/files/bcard_small.jpg

... I don't think it gets any simpler than that :-P

[tim]

... I don't think it gets any simpler than that :-P

Sure it gets simpler than that - remove that background picture!

[cmM]

Sure it gets simpler than that - remove that background picture!
As a matter of fact, my previous design was about the same minus the background picture. It looks better like this though. It's a little more catchy while still simple. That picture is rather abstract, doesn't attract too much attention IMO.

[tim]

Here are two cards i'm considering, any thoughts?

http://mrwild.co.nz/unprotected/potn/temp/potn1.gif http://mrwild.co.nz/unprotected/potn/temp/potn2.jpg

[Carzee]

Here's the thing...
The right handside card; Tim, has anyone ever told you you're very pretty!

[Digital Prophet]

Tim, has anyone ever told you you're very pretty!

LOL.

I love the vertical layout. When you do have your design down you should consider OverNightPrints.com (http://www.overnightprints.com/main.php?A=pricing). I wanted to have several designs, so I was attracted by the low minimum. But thier prices are really fair and they do outstanding work! I just could not have been happier with thier work.

- Digital Prophet -

[theflyingkiwi]

Here are two cards i'm considering, any thoughts?

http://mrwild.co.nz/unprotected/potn/temp/potn1.gif

This one is the best one of two. It is plan and simple. Your web site can show people what kinda of work you can do. The card just needs to point them in the right direction.

[tim]

Here's the thing...
The right handside card; Tim, has anyone ever told you you're very pretty!

lol, but yes, it's been said many times ;) That's my half sister, you can see photos of her here (http://www.mrwild.co.nz/Featured/Models/index.html).

I love the vertical layout. When you do have your design down you should consider OverNightPrints.com (http://www.overnightprints.com/main.php?A=pricing). I wanted to have several designs, so I was attracted by the low minimum. But thier prices are really fair and they do outstanding work! I just could not have been happier with thier work.

If they can overnight business cards to me in New Zealand i'd be impressed ;)

This one is the best one of two [simple one]. It is plan and simple. Your web site can show people what kinda of work you can do. The card just needs to point them in the right direction.

I kindof agree - the picture one has a lot more impact, so it could drive more people to the website. On the other hand the other one's simple and classy. Maybe I can get some of both.

[CappuccinoDavid]

My audience is people who want photos taken... ;) Photos of people are about all most people are willing to pay for, so that's where i'm aiming.

I don't want to specialise, so the things I have in mind are weddings, baby photos (just asked to do some of these), family portraits (one of them this weekend), and pretty much anything else people want photos of. So it needs to be general.

My new website is http://www.wildphotography.co.nz , but the business cards will say Tim Wild Photography, as "wild photography" could give the wrong impression.

I like your site, what did you use for the portfolio part? I like to see about using something like it.

[tim]

I like your site, what did you use for the portfolio part? I like to see about using something like it.

Photoshop CS2 web gallery generator.

[CappuccinoDavid]

I just got CS2 and I haven't played with it yet, thanks for the info...

[tim]

removed

[cole31818]

1000 cards cost me 35.00USD

May I ask where you got such a great deal?
What kind of card stock do they use?

[mgbeach]

May I ask where you got such a great deal?
What kind of card stock do they use?
It's a local printshop here in Charleston. I posted before I got the cards in though. The stock was flimsy and the print job altogether piss-poor. You certainly get what you pay for. I returned them and got my money back.

[EricKonieczny]

Business Cards Printing places, really cheap, double sided, color, UV coated,

quick devilvery. 5000 cards for under $100 and other great deals.

I have used both for flyers and such

http://flyergiant.com/specials.html
http://www.sobeflyers.com/

[Croasdail]

I know you weren't asking for this.. but the website you refer to should be simple, clean, and only your best work. The one you referenced is nice, but I would have a simpler version reference on your cards. You don't want to give people anything to not like... sounds stupid.... but you need to give your target audience as little to dislike and as much to like... these should be only your "A" list images. Unfortunately I am better at marketing then I am at photography.

[tim]

Thanks for the suggestion Croasdail. I need to display proofs on the website, perhaps i'll seperate out the "gallery" and "proofs" areas. I could password protect the proofs areas, but I don't really want to do that. I do mean to redo my website in the next week or two, once my CSS book arrives...

I've still no business cards, and ideas are still welcome.

[tim]

Is this any better? It's very much a draft, i've not spent any time lining things up, and the text on the bottom right is something I threw in for ballance.

http://mrwild.co.nz/unprotected/potn/temp/potn3.gif

[tim]

Yeah I know I can't design by committe, but that cards I quite liked that I posted earlier got a so-so response, so I like to get opinions before I spend money on putting ink on paper. I think I like the two I posted last time, i'm tempted to refine them a bit and get them printed. The suggestions you made about refining the earlier card don't work so well in my opinion. I've spent a few hours and can't come up with anything any better, all I could really do to improve might be to get a graphic designer to have a go, but that could get expensive. Thanks for your advice, useful as usual :)

[BrandonSi]

Check out http://www.professorprint.com

They've got online design templates, 4/0, 4/1, and 4/4 printing for decent prices. qty starts at 500.

[d'homme]

<nice font> Photography </nice font> by Tim Wild
Satisfying All Your Portrait Needs

[Jon Arno]

Another place to consider is TemplateMonster.com. Their stuff is awesome!

[tim]

Thanks guys, i'll check out those template sites, and if I don't find anything amazing i'll probably go with the one Bloo likes. I might get a small run of the picture ones too, I like 'em.

[CyberPet]

Tim, you have all the ingredients on your own website... you just need to use it. ;)

Here's my take on your business card:

http://www.bazazz.com/pics/TimWildCard.jpg

[tim]

Petra, thanks so much, that's cool! :)

[CyberPet]

Tim, glad you liked it!

If you want it "full size" and with your address/phone #, email me the info and the photo of the girl (at least double the size of the one on the front page of your website), and I'll make the card in "real size" (90 x 55 mm @ 300 dpi).

If not, you can use the idea and make one for yourself... I made it especially for you anyway. :D

[tim]

Just sent you an email, thanks :)

[BrandonSi]

FYI, most printers require 1/8" bleed, and a 1/8" "safety" zone.

[Wazza]

That's a nice one Petra. I know where to look when I want one myself.

:D

[CyberPet]

Hehehe... see why photography is not my profession. :D

[berrylish]

Tim, you have all the ingredients on your own website... you just need to use it. ;)

Here's my take on your business card:

http://www.bazazz.com/pics/TimWildCard.jpg
:eek: i like it! the others were kind of plain.

[tim]

Tim,

I have to say that the card is difficult to resist and that it's brilliantly conceived and executed.

I think that at this point there's no dissuading you, but maybe I can give you advice that will enhance your business:

In addition to wedding photography, take up glamour modeling!

Thanks :D I assume you're referring to the lovely card Petra made? I'll probably get a few of the other kinds made too, using cheaper card, the minimum for the nice linen card is something like 500 cards, and it kinda expensive here in NZ. Maybe i'll wait, and get more printed in the US where it seems printing of just about every kind is cheaper.

FYI, most printers require 1/8" bleed, and a 1/8" "safety" zone.

Would you mind explaining this just a little more for me? Or do I just need to leave 2/8 of an inch of white around the outside?

[CyberPet]

You can use 3 mm around the card to "bleed" so when the printer cuts the cards to size, you get a perfect trim and no white edges if the cutting machine misses by half a mm.

[BrandonSi]

You can use 3 mm around the card to "bleed" so when the printer cuts the cards to size, you get a perfect trim and no white edges if the cutting machine misses by half a mm.

yeah.. if you're still confused just use this photoshop template here.. it's a standard layout and explains it in better detail.

http://www.andreoni.com/template.zip

[CyberPet]

I'm sure Tim's confused... but I'm not. Been in the business for 25 years. (worked very early hours at a printing house).

[tim]

Well since Petra knows what she's doing, and she's designing the cards (thanks again!), I think it'll be ok :)

[Claire]

Very nice card Petra!

[blue_max]

I am a graphic designer, but more on the production side for far too long! I have worked with many talented people and a true creative will come up with an idea that seems to come from nowhere (I work with my wife who is a true creative).

It is rather like a talented photographer will bring something to an image that is more than just a snapshot of what is there.

The hardest thing to do is come up with something yourself – somehow, you just seem too close to it. Your image is something that should ideally follow through to every aspect of your business, from website to invoices. Working with a good designer will help you achieve this and get you just what you want. The initial work will cost a reasonable amount of money, but it should be acceptable if you spread it over many items. You can agree a price before any commission takes place.

If you have access to a digital press, digital printing can be very cost effective for small runs and perfectly acceptable quality. If not, printing in one or two colours will keep the cost down and can look just as effective. Full colour can look a little cheap if not done well.

Petra's design is very attractive and works very well (and proves the value of a professional). Whether it will translate into an identity is more difficult – you may want to consider whether the use of the picture may get a little too associated with you if you move into other areas.

All this may be for the future though, if you just need a card quick.

Good luck with it, whatever you decide to do.

Graham

[Mike Panic]

below is the current card that i'm using, the vertical one is the next that i will be having printed.

http://www.mikepanic.com/photos/albums/randomsingles/abb.jpg

http://www.mikepanic.com/photos/albums/randomsingles/abd.jpg

i just skimmed this thread, not sure if this was brought up... but i always get plain white back w/ no uv or aquaus coating on it so i can write notes or dates or other info w/ a pen or sharpie... 2 sided cards can be very informative but it leaves no place for personalization

[KevC]

Tim. Your first one looks veerrrryy familiar. :)

//edit: http://www.fredmiranda.com/forum/topic/221995/2
I could've swore I posted it here too. If so, and it's a coincidence, that's *scary*.

[CyberPet]

I like the vertical format. Not many uses is, which is sad. Because you can have so much fun with it. I think you did a great convertion from horisontal to vertical card. :)

[CappuccinoDavid]

Hey Mike what program did you use??? I like both of them

[tim]

Tim. Your first one looks veerrrryy familiar. :)

//edit: http://www.fredmiranda.com/forum/topic/221995/2
I could've swore I posted it here too. If so, and it's a coincidence, that's *scary*.

I liked it so much I made my own version! I hope you don't mind, it's a really nice card :)

[KevC]

I liked it so much I made my own version! I hope you don't mind, it's a really nice card :)

Haha, not at all! I'm actually really flattered, just surprised. I guess it doesn't matter much since we live so far away from each other ;)

[tim]

Thanks :)

[tim]

Ok, I have my card designed thanks to Petra, who did a brilliant job, now it's time for printing. I love the linen card, but I wonder how well the photo will print on it. Can anyone tell me if photos come out well on linen card, or should I go for standard card?

btw here's the card.

http://www.bazazz.com/pics/TimWildCard.jpg

I'm also going to print some of these cards, probably locally, on some nice paper i'll get from an art store.

http://mrwild.co.nz/unprotected/potn/temp/potn1.gif

[CyberPet]

Yes, linen is no good... get a glossy card for the card with the photo. Regular structure on the regular card.

[jukas]

I can't open the file. I tried to open it in photoshop 6.0 and i get a message telling me that it's the wrong kind of file. What's the deal?

I can open it fine in PS 7, CS and CS2. Perhaps it was created in 7 and saved without backwards compatability enabled to save file space?

I can send you the version I have here that opens fine in 7 if you want to try it. Just PM me a way to get it to you.

[debbiejp]

I am beginning photography and need ideas for a business card, help.

[tim]

If you're a beginner you don't need a business card, you need to develop your skills.

[sevillafox]

I am beginning photography and need ideas for a business card, help.

You would be better to search out the "show me your business card" thread than resurrecting a thread that's almost 3 years old. Use that thread for inspiration...come up with some ideas, and start your own thread for feedback.

Welcome to POTN!

If you're a beginner you don't need a business card, you need to develop your skills.

Good advice as well.