From family photoshoots to large-scale campaigns with brands like Lululemon and Fjallraven, to weddings…I’ve done it all. With 10 years of content creation under my belt, here are three things I’d keep in mind when you’re starting out as a photographer.
#1: Have Clear Content Packages
When starting out in photography, it’s crucial to offer clear content packages that outline exactly what clients can expect from you. That way, you’re driving the conversation and laying out precisely what they (and you) can expect from the shoot.
Another critical thing to keep in mind when it comes to content packages is staying relevant. Stay current on the trends and know what content people need and want. For example, you should always include multiple aspect ratios so that your content can be repurposed on various platforms for your client. This also shows you know where their content is going and are well-versed in the marketing and advertising landscape.
#2: Create a Production Workflow
A solid production workflow is essential for efficiency and consistency in your photography business. From when someone reaches out to you to when you send them the final files, they should know, and you should know every step of the production process. At Hale, we have 13 steps:
Discovery Call
Proposal
Content Agreement + Invoicing
Shotlist From Client
Internal Creative Deck
Shoot Logistics - casting, locations, crew, dates
Client Approval On Creative
Wireframe + Production Schedule
Internal/External Production Walkthrough
Shoot Day!
Edits + Revisions
Final Deliverables
Client Referral Request
We follow the same process every time, no matter the project size. We also use a project management tool to keep track of this process so that at any point, we can share with the client where we are in the process, where we’re heading, and what they can expect.
#3: Do Not Specialize...yet(!)
If you’re at the beginning of your career and you still haven’t quite figured out your niche or where you really excel, say yes to all projects, say yes to all budgets, and keep yourself busy. Use this as an opportunity to understand what you like; that’s the only way you’ll be able to form an educated opinion on what type of content you want to create moving forward. Plus, you’ll get direct and honest feedback on what kind of content you’re good at creating because that’s what your clients and referral brands will continue to ask you for.
It takes some time to sort through the weeds to find where the market truly wants you, but once you do, you’ll be able to hone in on your packages and production process and double down on ad spend so potential clients can clearly see what you’re best at.
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