Initial promotional campaign advice

Kenneth Hamlett · #1 (**permalink**) 07-14-2009, 04:05 PM

Hi fellow members,

I'm one of the newest members (very glad to be a part) and I'm embarking on my initial promotional campaign. With all the years of experience represented here, I'm trying to get some guidance on what you've found works (email, mailers, gifts, etc). Of course everyone has limited budgets, so I'm looking for the best ROI (which for me translates into new business).

Any thoughts or ideas would be greatly appreciated!

MossPhotography · #2 (**permalink**) 07-16-2009, 09:36 AM

Welcome Kenneth-

Although doing it sucks (IMO), nothing beats cold calling the companies you'd like to work for. Once you have a contact, I use mailers and email newsletters.

Good luck.

~V~

Kenneth Hamlett · #3 (**permalink**) 07-17-2009, 06:08 PM

Thanks Vic. That sounds like the path I want to take.

MossPhotography · #4 (**permalink**) 07-17-2009, 06:24 PM

If you decide to go with email newsletters, try out "Constant Contact". I use it and like it, and I think Thomas uses it too.

~V~

ccarothers · #5 (**permalink**) 07-17-2009, 09:51 PM

Amen to Vic's comment. I also would get in the habit of asking for testimonials when your client is gushing over the job you just delivered -which they'll do of course

THen you can put them on your web site. Next idea is to ask for recommendations - always better to make a warm call. Last, I am trying mail chimp. Like Constant Contact, but claims to be less expensive with all the same bells and whistles. Besides, I like the name.

Best,

Cameron

Pbartf64 · #6 (**permalink**) 07-21-2009, 05:37 PM

I tend to use emails and postcards. I think any consistent effort will pay off if done well. The hard part is targeting the right people.

Best,

Paul S. Bartholomew, ABIPP
Architectural & Interior Design Photography

Kenneth Hamlett · #7 (**permalink**) 07-23-2009, 09:20 AM

Thanks guys for the input. I will definitely follow your advice.

Dale Lang · #8 (**permalink**) 08-02-2009, 04:21 PM

I agree with several others' advice about initial and continuing marketing methodology. When I first opened my independent studio I created a nice flyer and personally handed them to firms that I would like to work with within a certain radius of my office. Understandably, I did not often get past the receptionist... but when I did meet with a partner or marketing director, I had my portfolio of prints with me (some now use a laptop with a slide show). I made sure to get their card so I could follow up with an e-mail newsletter that I send out every quarter that has links to my website that I update just prior to sending the e-newsletter.

I now send my e-newletter to both existing clients and potential ones who may say they are working with another photographer but will consider me if the occasion arises. I tell them I value good relationships and if they are happy with whom they are working I respect that.

I like to personally deliver another flyer about this time of year so that those with whom I am not working put a face to the e-mails I send. At the holiday season I also give a personal gift (like a Starbuck's gift card) to my existing clients along with a small image of their work on a holiday card.

Ultimately, as many of us realize, you will either retain or lose a client based on your quality of service to them and rarely on the cost of the work. Building that valued relationship is all important and you should charge a fair fee for your professional services.

My 2 cents... DALE

Dale Christopher Lang PhD AIAP IAAP
Northwest Architectural Photography
www.nwphoto.net
206 293 6075