Paddling the same boat
Hi there. I'm in Eastern Canada and at almost the same stage as you. I haven't yet set up the actual printing - just the shooting and the on-line album of proofs with on-site order taking. I have a banner (2' x 10') that I use - just has my business name and big, bright logo. I had a 2' space left at the end and, depending on the event I'm attending, I insert a 20 x 30 print using doublesided tape. Catches the eye and draws people over to see what it's about.
I'm also considering a trailer for several reasons - control the dust and dirt around my gear; a place to crash if I'm exhausted (also have health issues), lockable if I need to be away and there's no one to look after it for me - and more comfortable than just a table in a hallway.
The sandwich boards are a great idea. Strategically placed they're great attention getters. Again - focus (sorry, bad pun) on your name and location - don't try to get too 'cute' with the advertising. Same with flyers. Name, location, quick description - no prices. You want people to come and talk to you, right? (Or your young salesman).
Love the idea of the vest. At Spruce Meadows (show jumping mecca in Alberta, Canada) all accredited photographers have to wear one - it lets people know they are allowed to be on the field - AND identifies them to both the athletes and the public.
"I was thinking more along the lines of promoting the instant and take home aspect rather than the name. As a friend said, they won't care whom they are buying the shots off as long as they like them and the instant aspect is what will sell it." - good point. Hadn't really thought of that because I'm not set up for on-site printing - just proofing and ordering.
Keep your message really simple (not a lot of room on those sandwich boards) - something like 'photos available same day' or something similar. You can mention your prices too if that seems appropriate.
The best idea is to 'test' your messages. At event #1 just promote fast same-day printing. at event #2 try promoting some prices and see if that makes a difference. After a few events you'll have narrowed down your message to the one or two that really work for you. Let us know how you make out!
Comments
Hi there. I'm in Eastern Canada and at almost the same stage as you. I haven't yet set up the actual printing - just the shooting and the on-line album of proofs with on-site order taking. I have a banner (2' x 10') that I use - just has my business name and big, bright logo. I had a 2' space left at the end and, depending on the event I'm attending, I insert a 20 x 30 print using doublesided tape. Catches the eye and draws people over to see what it's about.
I'm also considering a trailer for several reasons - control the dust and dirt around my gear; a place to crash if I'm exhausted (also have health issues), lockable if I need to be away and there's no one to look after it for me - and more comfortable than just a table in a hallway.
The sandwich boards are a great idea. Strategically placed they're great attention getters. Again - focus (sorry, bad pun) on your name and location - don't try to get too 'cute' with the advertising. Same with flyers. Name, location, quick description - no prices. You want people to come and talk to you, right? (Or your young salesman).
http://www.imagesbyceci.com
http://www.facebook.com/ImagesByCeci
Picadilly, NB, Canada
"I was thinking more along the lines of promoting the instant and take home aspect rather than the name. As a friend said, they won't care whom they are buying the shots off as long as they like them and the instant aspect is what will sell it." - good point. Hadn't really thought of that because I'm not set up for on-site printing - just proofing and ordering.
Keep your message really simple (not a lot of room on those sandwich boards) - something like 'photos available same day' or something similar. You can mention your prices too if that seems appropriate.
The best idea is to 'test' your messages. At event #1 just promote fast same-day printing. at event #2 try promoting some prices and see if that makes a difference. After a few events you'll have narrowed down your message to the one or two that really work for you. Let us know how you make out!
http://www.imagesbyceci.com
http://www.facebook.com/ImagesByCeci
Picadilly, NB, Canada
http://www.imagesbyceci.com
http://www.facebook.com/ImagesByCeci
Picadilly, NB, Canada