A great idea for those turning pro

kevinhelton

Hi All,

Well, it's still strange to call myself "pro" but if I'm getting paid, people like my work, and I'm getting referrals, I must not be doing too bad. What else can "pro" mean? :wink

I read the thread about not doing work for free and it got me thinking about an idea my wife gave me when starting a few months ago. If anything, friends, family, fellow church members should want to pay budding photo pros as a favor to them. It shouldn't be a "What can I get from my family member" but "What can I do to help my family member", no?

To nip this in the bud, my wife gave me the idea (and actually did all the work for me :scratch) of sending a letter to all of our family, friends and church family. I have appending the letter below for your reading enjoyment. The letter basically states that I'm starting a side photo business and can use your help to get started. So far, I've received no "What deal can you give me" responses. I've done six sessions in the last few weeks, and business is growing for this side work of mine. Of course, I did a few real sessions for a good discount to build a portfolio and prove myself (to myself and others). But after that, its just about full-price for all (maybe a small discount here and there). I would recommend this method for all starting to make money with their photography. It helps to start with those you know, hone skills a bit, then take it to the masses!

Thoughts and comments hoped for!

Letter:

Dear Family and Friends,

The last year has been full of excitement for our family. We had our first child…and two minutes later our second child! Being parents to twins has proven to be an indescribable blessing. It has also caused some drastic changes within our family structure.

Jen stopped working a few months before the girls were born. Kevin spent last school year working as the digital photography teacher at Vista Murrieta High School. Since his lack of credentials prevented him from returning this year, we have decided that it is time for him to focus on the photography side of his career while he finishes up his Masters and credentialing program in school. Kevin has spent the last several years studying the many aspects of photography. Additionally, he has used many types of cameras, working on his technique, and style. He has photographed many events, including school athletics, parties, weddings, families, infants, etc.

We are very excited to introduce Kevin Helton Photography. We offer a wide range of photography services including weddings, engagement photos, family portraits, child and infant portraits, senior portraits, staff portraits, sports, and events. We hope that when you need a photographer you will consider using Kevin Helton Photography. Additionally, we appreciate referrals as we work to get this business off the ground. We have enclosed business cards for you or anyone who may be in need of a photographer. Our family and friends have always been an amazingly supportive part of our lives and there are no words to describe how much we appreciate you!

You can visit Kevin’s website for more information as well as samples of his work at:

www.kevinhelton.com

Sincerely,

Kevin and Jen

I also plan on sending another letter our in a few months as an update (and reminder :wink). I printed this on my letterhead, on nice cotton paper. The response has been great!

Kevin Helton
www.kevinhelton.com

nipprdog

kevinhelton wrote:

What else can "pro" mean?

The general consensus is the term 'pro' reffers to those shooters whose primary source of income is photography.

Some of us use the term semi-pro.

Good luck on your new venture!

JBurt

Pro or semi Pro. It is the Pro part that matters. Great idea.

Oh... and... Congrats on the twins.

RustingInPeace

Best Advertising You Can Have
The letter is a nice start. I also recommend you put a follow up system in place. I send out a monthly newsletter, in addition to my client follow up plan. I try to gather as much information on my clients when they come in (a questionnaire), and put that information in ACT. I send my past clients a monthly newsletter, birthday card, anniversary card, Christmas card, and 4 premium cards (free pumpkin, free scoop of ice cream, etc) per year. I also make at least one personal phone call per client per year, just to say hi (and gather more information). My key is always asking for referrals and letting them know how much I rely on them. I also send clients a thank you card and $5 Starbucks card for every referral the send me.

dogwood

Yeah, this letter seems like a very good idea. You're introducing yourself as a photographer with a valuable service to offer. One suggestion though-- perhaps declare a specialty or type of photography that you particularily are good at and give them a reason to hire you. Also, a "call to action" is always good (ie "friends and family 5-percent discount if you book before Dec. 1").

urbanaries

dogwood wrote:

Yeah, this letter seems like a very good idea. You're introducing yourself as a photographer with a valuable service to offer. One suggestion though-- perhaps declare a specialty or type of photography that you particularily are good at and give them a reason to hire you. Also, a "call to action" is always good (ie "friends and family 5-percent discount if you book before Dec. 1").

+1....GREAT advice.

Stella Bella

I think this is a great idea! I 'm hoping to do something similar very soon. I have talked to many people about what I'm "starting", but need a way to let them know its finally "here". Great start!!