I've had a few people ask recently how the photography business is going.
Truthfully it isn't going anywhere. I'm not really sure how to go about
advertising. I work at the newspaper where I could advertise, but I
don't want to advertise in it because I don't want my boss to think I'm
seriously looking for a new job. I like my job and it has benefits.
I
want the photography to be a side gig.
Also, I'm shying away from weddings because of some negative experiences
I've had Unfortunately, that is where the money is.
So, I'm relying on word of mouth, my web page and promoting my page on
Facebook. I've gotten a couple of nibbles, but nothing major.
Last week I wanted to give up and said so on Facebook. A couple of
encouraging words from some friends boosted my self esteem a bit and I'm
hanging in there for now.
Plus, I've decided to just have fun with the
photography and if something comes from it, then great, if not, well,
I'm still having fun.
The best comment I received was from a man whose work I've admired for
years now, mainly from afar because he no longer works at our paper, but
did years before I was employed there.
What has always drawn me to his work is how he worked in exclusively
black and white. The newspaper didn't print color up until 10 or so
years ago and all of his photographs had to focus on content and
composition versus relying on color to make it interesting.
This photographer could make a boring municipal meeting look interesting
simply by taking an amazing photograph.
His comment to me was simple, but meant the world to me because it came
from him.
"hi Lisa, don't think of quitting the work of yours is fantastic,
wonderful, you have the eye to see in depth what is waiting, (begging)
to be one of your photos. Enjoy it, do not force it, it will happen,
after all it has already!!!!!"
It brought tears to my eyes because it was like receiving a
compliment from a mentor, a celebrity, a photography hero, of sorts.
"
Thanks, Carl. You're an inspiration.
This is part of Jen's Spin Cycle at Sprite's Keeper.
I also have a post up for Photo Story Friday, hosted by Cecily at My Chaos My Bliss.
And somehow I managed to get a post up for Project 3.6.5 on my photo blog. Believe me, I really didn't have a lot of time this week, but had put the Project 3.6.6 post together over a period of a week and had actually started the above post even before Ms. Jen suggested her theme for this week. Now I'm going to go collapse!
I love this post! i’ve had some of the same struggles with my biz. i did a lot (a LOT) of free sittings for friends and acquaintances, just to get the word of mouth going. it did, and now it is quiet again. each season (like christmas and senior pic season) i feel like i am learning more about what i will do differently next year. this year is my training wheels time. you have my number – call me and we’ll chat. or text me. either way, tell me its you so i don’t ignore your unfamiliar area code.
your pics are amazing. carl was right – you have a very talented eye. don’t give up – just give in!
…. FIRST!
Is there a local mom’s club in your area? I would contact them. Also, you could go to daycares/preschools and ask them to give out your cards. Give out cards at the playground, the mall, wherever. Most small businesses don’t have the money for advertising, so they have to generate their own buzz by being creative. Once you get the ball rolling, word of mouth will kick in and people will like what you do for them and refer you to friends. It will happen! Don’t get discouraged!
Lisa, my sister was in the same boat last year. Her photo biz link is on my blog. If you ever wanted to pick her brain about how she got going, I’m sure she’d help you! Please dont’ give up!
She did a lot of free work in the beginning for practice and to get the word out. She also went to a few events, school plays, political events, etc. etc. Things that she found interesting and liked. Then afterwards she would showcase some of her stuff on her blog and on her FB. FB has been an excellent tool for her. The comment in your post about not forcing it……..it is so right on. Embrace the passion you have for photography, for yourself. It will happen
I agree! Keep doing it! ANd yes, you’re linked!
Hang in there girl, just hang in there. You are really good.
I think your photos are fantastic, too! You definitely have a good eye. Plus, you love photography, so keep that love going! You don’t want a business to take away your enjoyment of photography! (Although I would dare to say that’s impossible!)
I am so glad you aren’t going to quit
One thing I did is that I don’t even try to make it a business. I just do it for fun. I think that has taken a lot of pressure off. You had bad experiences with weddings? That makes me nervous. I am doing one for someone soon and I am very worried. There is so much to think about and do… Good luck!
Wow, how nice to get a compliment like that from someone you admire so much. Definitely stick with it. If it is something that you love, it’s worth it.
LOVE the pictures. Absolutely stick with it. Forget weddings, you should be taking pictures of kids. Here in LA people will pay big $ for great shots of their families.
I may very well do that. I have many questions!
That’s a great idea about the mom’s club!
THank you. I’ll check that out!
Thanks!
Thank you!
Thank you!
I have had, but that doesn’t mean you will! Mine was a bridezilla or two!
Thank you!
Maybe I’ll come to LA!
Or not… 
Well you ARE a great photographer so don’t quit. How about advertising on Craigslist?
I definitely think it’s too soon to throw in the towel. You’re talented, just be patient. It’ll happen. And that compliment from someone who knows photography and who’s opinion you respect…that’s invaluable. Listen.
Thank you!
WOW! What wisdom! You are gifted, don’t forget it! Just move closer already so you can take some family photos for me! ;0)