7 Things Photographers Can Do To Navigate The Economy’s Rough Waters

Navigating the waters of the new economy

Still reeling from the recession? You’re not alone. Most photographers were put through the wringer by the recent economic downturn, and for many, the rough ride isn’t over. Photographers of all types have taken a hit, whether it is from downsized newsrooms, shrinking ad pages or a skittish art market.

In addition, revolutions in digital technology and revised business models have transformed the photography industry. Combine the two and you have the doomsday scenario that the New York Times wrote about last week.

While I don’t subscribe entirely to that dismal outlook (call it stubborn denial) the fact remains that photographers need to approach the new economy with fresh, creative ideas and new methods of finding and keeping clients if they’re going to succeed.

Here are a few essential tips to help you navigate the waters of the new economy.

Increase your advertising. Don’t cut your marketing when times are though, that’s exactly the time to ramp it up and keep getting your name out there. Remind clients who you are. That way, when the money starts flowing again, you’ll be out there front and center, ready to get the call.

Use social networking media. Make it a regular part of your overall marketing plan. Every update and tweet that you post on Facebook and Twitter creates another opportunity for someone new to see your work. By joining the discussion online, you expose yourself to a world of new ideas and potential clients.

Increasing your local marketing efforts. There are photo buyers everywhere and building relationships in your own backyard is a great way to create buzz about your work.

Think globally. With digital technology and the internet, clients can be found in all corners of the world. Make sure you have a strong web presence.

Remain competitive. Be prepared to accept less than you used to, but don’t give your work away.  Bid competitively and remind clients that you are a professional who requires appropriate compensation.

Streamline your business. Now is the time to create new marketing pieces, redesign your website, get comfortable with that new software or learn new techniques. When things turn around, you’ll be that much further ahead.

Do something proactive toward your business each and every day. Visit a client face-to-face. Take some new photographs. Mail your promo card to a new client. Make a phone call. You never know what opportunities might present themselves when you make an effort.

The economy is already starting to show an upward trend, and photographers who remain both positive and flexible to new ideas will be the ones to stay afloat and forge ahead in the coming years.

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Dan Bailey is a professional adventure, outdoor and travel photographer based in Anchorage, Alaska. Follow his own blog at danbaileyphoto.com/blog and see his daily updates at facebook.com/danbaileyphoto.

Tagged as: business, marketing, Photographer, Photography