Friends in photography,
One of the problems with selling, besides the many flawed perceptions so many of us have
about selling, and how we define it.
It is the idea that selling is something we do to people, something against their will.
The ultimate form of manipulation, so to speak.
Sounds evil, don’t it.
Well, that’s because it is. That definition is evil.
The solution? Simple. Redefine it. Sell people stuff they want.
Why sell ice to people living in the Artic when what they might really want
is a space heater.
The same goes for photographers who run a photography business.
Whether you’re selling family portraits, baby portraits, wedding photography or scenic art
photography….The big question is:
“Do people want it?”
And if not, why? (this is the hard part, where our flaws and failures reveal themselves)…
You need to ask compelling questions, such as:
- is it me?
- is it my work?
- can it be repackaged into a more attractive deal?
- maybe people simply don’t want it?
By the way, you can’t really ask them what they want most times. Since they
don’t really know most times. Steve Jobs knew this.
The real innovation and the core marketing mojo is in the creative energy
and innovation that goes into creating offers and pitches to a target market.
Yup. We’re talking marketing. Again.
Marketing IS everything. I keep saying that. ‘Cuz it’s true.
And most of the best marketing comes from the bold, the creative brave ones
willing to get out there and fail.
Not the ones looking for a safe, sound, tried and true strategy. Not least of which is something
they read about and are simply copying from another.
I have no problem with “swiping” ideas and being inspired by other photographers.
I dare say, this is essential.
But outright wholesale copying reeks of bland, empty and shallow.
This my friend is a journey. All businesses are journeys. Journeys where we
learn, grow, slay dragons and hopefully prosper on many levels.
It’s why I’m here. Living the dream.
Join me….we’ll slay some dragons…..
Yours in photography and success,
Robert Provencher
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