If you haven’t cleaned up various aspects of your business as we go into the busy season, you’ll never get around to it. While some of the things on my list are clean-up projects, others are necessary to help your business run smoother.
As a kid, I remember being told I couldn’t play with friends until I cleaned up my room. Later, as an adult, one of my dive buddies was told by his wife he couldn’t go on a scuba trip until he cleaned his home office! Somebody reminding us to clean something up seems to follow us throughout life!
It’s my turn to remind you that it’s time to clean up different aspects your business. Or maybe it’s outside your office or studio, and it’s time to make sure your reservations for an upcoming conference are all set.
The list goes on and on, but here are some things to think about:
- How’s your “About” page? Unless it was a Pulitzer, your clients don’t care what awards you’ve won. Talk about why you love being a photographer, how your clients trust you to capture the very best images, or how you’re able to capture memories and stop time. Even better, product a video that shows your work and your passion for the craft.
- Do you need a new headshot? Most of you have terrible headshots and need something that is in line with your role as a professional photographer! Let your headshot speak for the quality you put into working with each client.
- How’s your “Contact” page? Give people a phone number and a way to contact you besides a template email form! And if you insist on using a template, then make sure you’re set up to respond quickly. A slow response only creates doubt in the mind of the consumer that you’re interested in their business.
- When was the last time you updated your galleries? Show only “Wow” images—photographs so good that you’d just have to show one to get hired. Let’s eliminate images that anybody’s Uncle Harry could have shot.
- Is your price list right? By “right,” I mean, will you make money this year or live on macaroni and cheese until you see your accountant in 2025?
- Are you doing any mailing campaigns this year? It costs nothing to call Marathon (800-228-0629) and ask about their “Power of 3” programs for direct mail. Yes, I know I’m sharing this on Marathon’s blog, but so many of you are missing some great opportunities to market to seniors and familys.
- Are you cross-promoting with other photographers or vendors? For wedding photographers, there are so many potential partners: bridal salons, spas, travel agencies, caterers, wedding planners, florists, limo services, bands, etc. For portrait photographers, there are children’s stores, restaurants, venues, etc. Don’t forget to promote with other photographers – you’ve only got so many days a year you’re available!
- Got all the gear you need for the new year? From memory cards to camera bags, camera bodies, lenses, and lighting gear the list is endless. And don’t forget to check your backup gear.
- Who’s your backup? If something goes wrong and you can’t cover an event on your schedule, what’s your plan? For example, when you were a kid, you were used to doing fire drills in school. Well, you need to do a fire drill in your business to see if you’ve got coverage.
No single post can include everything, but without any hesitation, ALL of you have something you’ve put off doing to strengthen your business in 2024. Don’t let the year start out with a flat tire! In the same way you’d check everything on your car if you were making a long road trip, do the same with your business.
