The photography industry has been going through some big changes in the last few decades. We’ve gone from mainstream to extremes.
Let me explain.
Everyone is a photographer nowadays. We all can agree on that. This erodes the perception that the masses have on what photography is.
To them, it’s something that’s super easy, fast, cheap and accessible.
Grab your phone, point and shoot. Done! The results are no different than what a seasoned photographic artist created.
Or, at least, that’s what the mindset it. It’s all perception. And it’s all nonsense.
We all know that. We know there is a difference in quality. But do they know? Do they care? Does it matter if they care?
My take: It is what it is and there is not much we can do about perception at the levels of the masses. It’s my responsibility to grow my business, keep growing my business and earning profits.
But knowing that doesn’t change anything. Cultural norms and perceptions are impossible to affect or change. It’s like paddling against a tsunami slamming the shores. Good luck.
The opportunities exist at the extremes. At one end is the low cost, high volume photographer.
At the other end is the high end, exclusive and expensive photographer who is seen as, respected as and treated like the artist that he or she truly is.
(I should point out that this excludes hobbyists and everyday shooters. Which means the masses, and their perceptions. We’re talking about those who making money selling their skills as a photographer.)
Is there a middle ground? The do-it-all studio. The Swiss army knife of studios?
Not really. Those days are done.
UNLESS…..
Yes, unless. There is an exception. I know, I am living it.
We run our studio in a limited market. Yes, we can push for high volume work.
Instead, we’re pushing hard into fairies, ice fairies, medieval, family promotions and affiliations that rise above the norm.
Our marketing allows us to rise above the noise. Marketing is everything.
Maggie Habieda markets a high end studio in a market that supports her. Danny Rabalais does high volume sports and is crushing it.
Both are prime examples and what I speak. And then there’s yours truly.
Maggie is always sharing her expertise and marketing strategies.
This, and many others, are gems in the industry. There is a way to grow and prosper as a photographer. Worth mentioning again.
It’s a business and marketing is the key.
Robert N. Provencher – Your Master Coach Marketer
“If you want to be a profitable and successful photographer, then study profitable and successful photographers.”
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