With the upcoming wedding, prom and graduation seasons, have you considered becoming an event photographer? If you’re thinking about getting started, there are a few things you should know before you get into this field of photography.
Capturing someone’s special day is an important job that can’t be taken lightly. You’ll need to be able to answer questions that potential clients will have before the event and when you’re onsite shooting photos. Communication is key to ensure a positive experience for all.
Read on to discover the top 5 tips for getting hired as an expert event photographer.
- Provide Competitive Pricing
If you’re just starting out, consider offering a number of introductory pricing packages instead of simply a flat fee. Keep in mind you still need to establish yourself in this area, so providing choices for customers is important.
Be upfront when discussing event packages with each potential customer. Ask about the customer’s and/or the event’s budget and be honest if you can work with them. Don’t be surprised if you’re in the running among several other photographers competing for their business. Look for ways to stand out from the pack.
Encourage potential clients to write down their needs and incorporate that information into the contract for the event. This helps to ensure there are less chances of errors being made on the busy day of the event. Include the major points of interest on this binding contract, including things like the required specific photo style or the use of a specific color palette when editing, ensures both parties are completely satisfied.
- Create an Online Portfolio
Before spending thousands of dollars for photos, customers want to be certain the event photographer can deliver exactly the vision they have in mind for their event. For example, if a couple is getting married on the beach, they’ll undoubtedly want some beautiful photos with the sunset as a backdrop.
Talk with your clients about the types of photos they’re interested in and provide examples with an online portfolio of your best work.
Additionally, it’s definitely a good idea to create an Instagram page to promote your work and the areas that you specialize in.
- Share Positive Reviews
Post reviews that other clients have left for you on your website or Facebook page.
Get in the habit of asking for testimonials after you’ve finished an event. This is well worth your time and can be quite beneficial in persuading future clients to hire you for similar events. You’ll find most people are more than happy to provide a review of your services for a job well done.
People love to express their opinions so be sure to gather plenty of positive reviews and share them on all of your marketing materials. Also, encourage potential clients to reach out to former clients to ask them questions directly about what it’s like to work with you.
- Discuss What Equipment You’ll Use
There are so many camera options on the market these days. It’s hard to choose between Canon or Nikon as both brands deliver breathtaking photos with high-quality resolution.
Clients are becoming savvier when it comes to photography equipment. Being able to answer any upfront questions may be a key selling point for some people.
For their ultimate satisfaction, consider showing your customers what equipment you’ll be using at the event and telling them why. Advise them if there are going to be multiple cameras shooting away. Also advise them if you’ll be bringing ring lights to add extra brightness to the final images.
Don’t be afraid to get technical with your customers prior to the day of the event even though they’re paying you to handle the photography details. This assures them that you know what you are talking about and can put any fears to rest before they are even expressed.
- Invest in a Professional Photography Website
Once you have thousands of beautiful images from your event, upload photos from the day into your professional photography website so that your clients can easily view and share them with their family and friends. They’ll be able to order photos conveniently on the spot off of your customized site.
At MorePhotos, we offer website design templates to create professional photography websites in a snap for as little as $19/month. Contact us today for details.
MorePhotos offers online solutions that include professional websites and a powerful e-commerce shopping cart. With our friendly and knowledgeable staff, we can assist you in creating an online presence that will attract traffic to your photography website.
To learn more, participate in our live webinar on April 12 to see first-hand our all-in-one platform that gives you everything you need to run a photography business.
