Handing Out Business Cards at Events....

[NeoSoulPhoto]

I just started getting into event photography and was wondering if you guys thought that handing out your cards to guests was unprofessional? I was thinking of handing a few out to guest as they were leaving, but decided not to.

On my first gig I just handed one to a GWC who started a conversation with me, and to the DJ, then gave the clients a few cards to give to their friends, which they have already referred me to one other person.

Anyways, I would just like to hear your opinions, or ideas about getting more business though your cards and networking.

Thanks

[zagiace]

I hand them out to other vendors but I choose not to use my clients event as a marketing venture.If I am approached I am happy to give them a card.

[theextremist04]

It depends...if you expect clients to buy pictures, I don't think it's unreasonable as long as you let them know why you're doing it (aka they can see photos from the event there.) But check with the director of the event. I usually do at sporting events; people wouldn't know where to see pictures otherwise.

[scombridae]

How about passing over during trade exhibition to trade exhibitors....???

[tfd888]

Always check with event directors/coordinators first before passing out cards or selling photos from any event.

I have been passing out cards to people I take photos of at events I have permission to with my website and contact info so that they can see the pics and possibly order them if they so chose. Usually before I can even get a card out, they are asking me where the pics will be posted and how they can see them :D.

[scombridae]

Always check with event directors/coordinators first before passing out cards or selling photos from any event.

I have been passing out cards to people I take photos of at events I have permission to with my website and contact info so that they can see the pics and possibly order them if they so chose. Usually before I can even get a card out, they are asking me where the pics will be posted and how they can see them :D.

Thanks for the input

[digitalphotocandy]

I always make cards with the couple (for a wedding) on them with my website and directions to the online gallery. That way since they know the couple they will be less likely to throw it away.

[tfd888]

I always make cards with the couple (for a wedding) on them with my website and directions to the online gallery. That way since they know the couple they will be less likely to throw it away.

Now that is just flat-out smart :lol:.

[Lens Lenders]

I just started getting into event photography and was wondering if you guys thought that handing out your cards to guests was unprofessional? I was thinking of handing a few out to guest as they were leaving, but decided not to.

On my first gig I just handed one to a GWC who started a conversation with me, and to the DJ, then gave the clients a few cards to give to their friends, which they have already referred me to one other person.

Anyways, I would just like to hear your opinions, or ideas about getting more business though your cards and networking.

Thanks
While working a paid event, you're there to do a job for the people paying you. Not to do marketing or selling for yourself.

Some people would say that a professional photographer should be nearly invisible at an event except to the people he / she wants looking at the camera.

However, it's perfectly acceptable to carry cards with you for people who approach you and ask for one.

[Lens Lenders]

I always make cards with the couple (for a wedding) on them with my website and directions to the online gallery. That way since they know the couple they will be less likely to throw it away.
If you have any concern that your business card is going to be thrown away, you shouldn't give it out in the first place. This is the equivalent to e-mail spam; just blasting your business card out into space, hoping one of them results in a phone call.

Business cards should be used at the conclusion of a meeting or a conversation and only if you're confident that you have a warm lead or the other person asks for it. (Which might be a sign they're a warm lead or just trying to jump to the end of the conversation so they can leave you.)

[NeoSoulPhoto]

Thank you for all of your comments!