Why do people choose you?

[cogliostro]

I'm a newbie, in photography, in paid work, and also in this forum. Recently, I've done a paid job because my friend is a party and event organizer, so she also offered photography in the package which is done by me.

In this case, I don't do direct communication and contact, which is done by my friend, because apparently the photography part is not that important and it's 'just' a documentation of the event.
Then, I realize, if I did it by myself I don't know what is my selling point.(apart from images of course, because for me the result is still medicore. acceptable, but not that great). Clearly I can't do such big thing such as advertising or involve in expo etc because I'm not a full time photographer.

So, other than your images and word of mouth, how do you differentiate yourself from other photographers? And why do your client chose you as the photographer?\

Sorry for my broken english, it's my second language.;)

[Goldchips]

So the question is: how do you, as a photographer, differentiate yourself from your competition and in doing so generate business?


Offer a quality service - this means you have to elevate your capabilities to the level at which people are willing to pay. this is difficult but not impossible for a "weekend" photographer to achieve. you'll have to work at it.
Offer a unique style, or at least a style that a wide variety of people enjoy - photography is part art and part science. learning the techniques, etc is the science and once you've mastered that, your unique output reflects your artistic sensibilities. when you're trying to sell your services, you must always be aware that the type and style of photograph that the customer enjoys is more important than the type and style of photograph that you enjoy. a lot of people struggle with this, but it is a critical point if you want to generate an ongoing business.
Exceed all expectations - you must be thoroughly professional in all of your dealings and be 110% reliable.


So those are just a few quick thoughts. Hope they give you some things to think about.

[Mike30D]

Do something different than the other photographers are doing.

Market yourself outside of your area - one of the first things that Joe Buissink did when he first started was get himself a 1-800 number and marketed himself in NY even though he was in LA. Anything to get his foot in the door.

It's all in the pitch, you need to make them believe they want you instead of the other guy.

[jhcanon]

Firstly you need to have confidence in your own ability. Without that you're on a loser. Once you have that confidence don't be afraid to blow your own trumpet. I've read some great blurb on some photographers web sites only to be completely let down when I saw their images.

Get some great shots and let them do the talking for you. Develop a style and make that your USP. Tell people how well you can cover their special event and explain how you will achieve it. That will indicate that you know what you are doing and work to a plan.

[Picture North Carolina]

Offer excellent customer service and go the extra mile, even when not asked to. (Technical proficiency is assumed here).