The World of Marketing

Starting a photography business, I knew I was bound for the world of marketing. I know that marketing is changing in our rapidly expanding cyber world. I love Facebook; I know I should sign up for Twitter… but what else?

I have been honored to take photos for my family and friends, and I hope I always have the opportunity to continue doing that. However, I feel like I am rapidly reaching a point where I need to go find clients… clients that reside in Oklahoma. Don’t get me wrong, I love to travel, and plan to always be willing to travel the globe for my clients, but I need to start getting my name out to my local market. This is where I seem to be getting stuck.

Maybe I’m just scared… but I keep wondering, do I tell my coworkers I have this business? I would love to take some holiday photos for them, but is that un-professional to bring up my “other career” at my current job? Do I just leave a bunch of business cards at a local coffee shop? Give some to my hairdresser and ask her to spread the word? Honestly I think the answer is: Yes, all of the above. I think these are all things I should be doing and it just feels weird to take this first step. Surreal in a way…

Ultimately once I start to get my name out there I hope that people will begin to recommend me and spread the word to their friends and families. This is the ultimate complement for any photographer. If people are willing to recommend you, you know you are making them happy and meeting expectations! This is also, the ultimate marketing tool. I believe that a reputation spread by word-of-mouth is priceless in this industry. Now, I just have to go out there and be worthy of that honor!

Wish me luck!