What Should Be In Your Photography Portfolio

What Should Be In Your Photography Portfolio?

Your portfolio is the largest defining factor whether you get hired or not. Other factors are your price, your ability to be found, and competence vibes to name a few. If your portfolio has these mistakes in them, you’ll send potential clients running.

niche gallery

If I’m looking for a headshot photographer, I want to see headshots. I don’t want to see headshots mixed with wedding and maternity. Organization and attention to detail can go a long way in the eyes of a potential client. There are arguments out there whether or not a photographer should niche down to one type of photography. I’m on the side of niching down… eventually. When you start, photograph the types of photography that interests you: maternity, headshots, newborn, weddings, and/or portraits. The type of photography that you consistently book and make the most off of, is the type of photography you should niche down to.

Ditch the Trash

Your work will be scrutinized to make sure you can consistently photograph in the style a potential client wants. Post quality over quantity. Instead of posting 15 pictures that 8 are great images and 7 are mid, just post 8 great images. It’s better to have a client want more saying “That’s it?” rather than that client saying, “Ew, what is that picture?”

Contact!

Don’t lose them! Make sure it is easy for that potential client to contact you. Make a button with clear directions.

Think of how many other photographers there are in your area. Ease of use can make or break you. If they have to search for more than 10 seconds for your contact form, you’re going to lose them. Don’t give them a reason to search the next photographer. Once they fill out a contact form, you can begin an email campaign to seal the deal.

Classes for Photography

Must see classes for learning

Creative Live has tons of videos for the creative in you. Here are my must see classes.

  • Adobe Lightroom Classic CC: The Complete Guide

  • Posing 101 - Lindsay Adler

  • Men’s Portrait Photography- Jeff Rojas

  • Shooting for Brands- Andrew Kearns

  • Business of Commercial Food Photography- Andrew Scrivani

  • Adobe Photoshop CC: The Complete Guide

  • Newborn Photography Boot Camp- Kelly Brown

  • Portrait Photography Boot Camp- Lindsay Adler

  • Your Social Media Boot Camp- Jasmine Star

You will come out the other end a much better photographer. Give it a chance. Click the button find out.

Websites that Level Up Your Photography (pt3)

Websites that Level Up Your Photography (pt3)

If you missed pt 1 & 2, I stated that Creative Live , Fstoppers , and Behind the Shutter were great informative sites. If you are more focused on building networks, take a look at Alignable . Alignable is a business platform, similar to Linkd In, where businesses can network. It is less like social media and more like a networking event where you can get/ give referrals to/ from other local businesses. Alignable also has groups stuffed with information and webinars.

This site will benefit you if you are a headshot, product, or branding photographer. I don’t recommend it if you are a family, newborn, or wedding photographer. Let me know if any of these sites helped you out.

I Want to Quit My Job (again)

I Want to Quit My Job (again)

Every time I get a corporate headshot gig, I fall in love with entrepreneurship all over again. It’s large amount of work that goes with photographing an entire business’s employees. Most importantly, the financial compensation. Businesses don’t haggle price (you shouldn’t be haggling your price anyway). I would love to quit my job and pursue gigs like this full time but I can’t. Here are the tips I’ve noticed worked for me and maybe you can use them and go full time yourself.

SEO: Consistently blogging about your expertise is great for SEO. SEO, or search engine optimization, is what gets you found in a Google search. Make a Google My Business account, blog weekly on your site, and post images to GMB. 0% of my new clients have come from social media.

Cold Call: Stop being so timid. Converse with humans. Call 20 businesses a day. If you land 2 businesses a month willing to spend $5k that would be $100k a year. Have a few scripts and find out what works. Get the info of people on the fence and foster a relationship. SEO brings clients to you. Cold calling brings you to the client.

Under Promise & Over Deliver: Always sneak a little more in whatever service you provide. Go a little more out of your way. No matter the business, this is always the best practice.

This is the latest corporate session that made me want to quit again. It was multiple headshot sessions for AdVANtage Outfitters.

Websites that Level Up Your Photography (pt2)

Websites that Level Up Your Photography (pt2)

In my first part of Websites that Level Up Your Photography, I stated Creative Live was a great place to start. My next recommendations are F Stoppers and Behind the Shutter. Both are loaded with tips, tricks and education.

FStoppers is a photography site with articles about anything photography. From news on the latest camera body to videos on what lens to use for portraits, FStoppers in super informative. FStpppers also has educational videos similar to Creative Live.

I was introduced to Behind the Shutter in Barnes & Nobles. It’s a photographer’s dream magazine. I later found out you can read the articles online for free. It is ran by Sal Cincotta who can also be seen in some videos in Creative Live. There are also free learning videos on the Behind the Shutter website.

Choose what ever site you find value in. Next thing you absolutely need to do after teaching yourself something… DO IT! Use it right away. If you learned a marketing trick, use it. Learned a new Photoshop technique, practice it. Use it or lose it, also certain things like marketing have short shelf lives.

Networking as a Photographer

Networking as a Photographer

Networking plays a crucial role in establishing and growing a successful photography career. By building relationships and connections within the industry, photographers can not only expand their client base but also gain valuable insights and opportunities. If you're a photographer looking to enhance your networking skills, here are some effective strategies to get you started:

1. Attend Industry Events and Workshops

Participating in photography events, workshops, and conferences is an excellent way to meet fellow photographers, industry professionals, and potential clients. These gatherings often offer opportunities for collaboration, learning, and sharing experiences. Engage in conversations, exchange business cards, and make lasting connections with people who share your passion for photography.

2. Utilize Social Media Platforms

In today's digital age, social media platforms have become powerful tools for networking. Establish a strong online presence by creating a professional photography portfolio website and maintaining active profiles on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Share your work regularly, interact with other photographers, engage with potential clients, and join relevant photography communities or groups.

3. Collaborate with Others

Collaboration with fellow photographers, models, makeup artists, and stylists not only provides creative opportunities but also expands your network. Join forces on projects, organize styled shoots, and leverage the skills and connections of those you collaborate with. Not only can this lead to stunning work, but it also opens up avenues for referrals and recommendations.

4. Attend Local Meetups and Photography Clubs

Explore local photography meetups or join photography clubs in your area. These events and clubs often offer networking opportunities, portfolio reviews, and organized photo walks. Engaging with other local photographers allows you to forge relationships within your community, exchange advice, learn from one another, and potentially receive referrals for clients.

5. Reach Out to Potential Clients

Build your network by proactively reaching out to potential clients. Research and compile a list of businesses, organizations, and individuals in your target market. Approach them professionally and showcase your portfolio, highlighting how your skills can benefit their specific needs. Attend industry trade shows and consider exhibiting your work to attract potential clients and build connections face-to-face.

6. Keep in Touch

Maintaining relationships is key to successful networking. Regularly check in with your contacts, whether through social media interactions, emails, or occasional meetups. Share your recent work, congratulate them on their achievements, and offer any assistance or support when appropriate. By staying engaged and interested in other professionals' endeavors, you cultivate meaningful connections that can lead to future collaborations or referrals.
Remember, networking is not just about expanding your professional circle; it's about building genuine relationships, fostering trust, and supporting one another in the photography industry. As you invest time and effort into networking, be patient, persistent, and stay true to your unique style and vision. With dedication and a well-established network, you'll be well on your way to thriving as a photographer.

Websites that Level Up Your Photography

Websites that Level Up Your Photography

Other than my super informative blogs, there are sites that can definitely level you up. The first website I highly recommend is Creative Live.

Creative Live has hundreds of videos geared towards education in photography, graphic design, business, and so much more. You can either pay per video or pay for a yearly creator pass.

A while back I made multiple videos on TikTok going into specific videos to watch. For example software videos that I recommended were Adobe Lightroom, Photoshop, Illustrator, and Premiere Pro bootcamp videos. Other videos were Posing, Shooting for Brands, and Social Media.

Creative Live

3 Reasons for Not Relying On Photoshop's AI

Adobe took all the data they needed and if you thought Photoshop Beta would last… it won’t. It’s days are coming to an end and they figured out how to monetize their AI. Here are 3 reasons to not rely on Adobe’s AI.

Save a few bucks

Like I just stated, Adobe is monetizing the use of their AI. As of now Adobe wants to charge $4.99 for 100 credits. What will 100 credits gets you, I don’t know. If it is anything like Adobe Stock, it wont be much.

You still need to be connected

AI doesn’t work without an internet connection. If you want to work during a 5 hour flight or have a power outage and a deadline, AI won’t be there to save you.

sometimes you’re just faster and better

AI still isn’t “there” yet. I’ve typed in some simple commands in PS Beta and have gotten back some wild results: a man planking when I typed in sunset, a veiny bug looking object when I typed in remove stray hairs. You know what you want to achieve for your image and sometimes doing it manually is faster.

Now I don’t want you to think I am anti AI. I’m not. AI is very convenient. Just don’t become too dependent on it.

3 Reasons You Should Use a Branding Photographer and/or Graphic Designer

Good branding creates a strong, positive perception of your business. What perception comes to mind when you think of Nike? Now think of Old Navy. What about Gucci? All these companies started somewhere and developed their branding. They designed and redesigned their logo. They had copious amounts of photo shoots to portray the feeling of their brand. A great logo and well lit photography goes a long way. Here are 3 reasons you should hire a professional for your branding needs.

First impressions

The internet is over saturated. Whatever your idea is, it’s probably been done. Do it better! You have 3 seconds to grab a client’s attention. Can your cellphone camera match what is already out there?

knowledge

Photographers and graphic designers know what works. We know what works on screen vs what works in print. We have many vendors at our disposal that can get you what you need for your business whether digital or print. We know if that logo works on a large billboard vs a watermark in the corner of an image on social media.

you get what you pay for

This doesn’t mean I want to charge you an arm and leg for my services. I want to let you know if you have a great product, show it the best way possible. A cellphone image with a messy background and terrible lighting will not grab anyone’s attention. The images below are not my work but they are great examples of the difference between DIY and hiring a pro.

Photos at the Beach

Photos at the Beach

June is the perfect time to plan a photo session on the beach. The crowds haven’t swarmed the beaches yet so we can have the beach all to ourselves. With a beach session you get the usual:

  • 30 min session

  • 5 digitals picked from a gallery of the entire session

If you REALLY want to have fun and go big, we can make it an extended session:

  • 1 hour

  • 12 digitals picked from a gallery of the entire session.

There are also add-ons like canvas prints and albums to make this day one to remember.

To book or ask more questions about a session click the learn more button below.

P.S. This makes a great Father’s Day gift

Photographers, Photoshop, & AI

Photographers, Photoshop, & AI

For those worried about AI taking over their photography jobs please stop worrying. My previous blog explains why we don’t need to worry. In this blog I’ll show you the benefits of using AI to make your editing faster. I did a short review of Adobe Photoshop’s Beta AI and it’s quite impressive.

Should Photographers Worry About AI

Should photographers worry about AI?

From the mind of Gonzalo Rodriguez

Should photographers worry about AI? I, without hesitation, say NO. Photographers can welcome it with open arms and an open mind. AI won’t steal your gigs. AI will help you streamline your editing, blogging, and assist with your marketing.

Until artificial intelligence can program a drone and attach a camera to it, I won’t be scared. AI also would need to program poses to flatter body types and gender. Imagine conversing with a drone trying to make you feel comfortable. AI won’t be able to photograph your wedding or pose your newborn baby.

What artificial intelligence is very helpful with is the behind the scenes business stuff. I’ve seen AI make Photoshop a literal cheat code. Closed eyes can be replaced with opened eyes with a lasso tool and typing a few words. Squarespace added AI to blogs. The 2nd half of this blog was AI generated. It did pretty well.

Should photographers worry about AI?

From the mind of AI

As an experienced writer at GR Design & Photography, I believe that photographers should pay attention to the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the industry.

On one hand, AI offers a wide array of opportunities to photographers. The technology can enhance and improve image quality, streamline editing processes, and even generate creative concepts. However, photographers must consider the potential implications that AI could have on their profession.

One major concern is the possibility of automated cameras and editing software replacing human photographers. As AI advances, it becomes increasingly capable of capturing high-quality images and completing complex editing tasks that were once exclusive to human photographers. This could potentially lead to a decrease in demand for professional photographers.

Furthermore, there is a risk that AI-powered tools and software could diminish the artistry and creativity that are intrinsic to photography. As AI technology becomes more prevalent, there is a risk that it may standardize and mass-produce images, rather than showcasing unique visions and perspectives.

In conclusion, while AI may provide a range of advantages to photographers, they must also be aware of the potential negative consequences that could accompany its rise. It is essential that photographers continue to learn and evolve their craft, embracing and utilizing AI where appropriate, while also finding ways to preserve the uniqueness and creativity that

Graphic Design & Photography

Benefits of a Jack of All Trades Artist.

The quote most of us have heard is, “A Jack of all trades is a master of none.” I am guilty of thinking this was the entire quote just like you probably did. The full quote is, “A Jack of all trades is a master of none, but often times better than a master of one.”

Learning the full quote set me at ease. Society tells you niche down and pick one thing to focus your business on. I graduated college with a major in graphic design and a minor in photography. I felt, deep in my soul, I needed to do both in my business. If you pay attention to what clients want, it is easy to merge graphic design in a photography business.

As a portrait photographer I started integrating graphic design into my photography by designing custom holiday cards for my clients. As I have shifted into branding for businesses, my skill set has shown to be invaluable. Clients are delighted when they realize I am all they need for logo design, menu design, headshots, product photography, and bts photography.

This is the benefit of a jack of all trades artist. Stop letting the masses say an artist cannot be great at multiple things. I understand wanting a niche photographer for a wedding but branding is a much more creative area to work with. It is much more beneficial to work with one person good enough to make your logo, photography your product, and extract the most confident version of you for your business.

FAQ

FAQ

Answer It Before They Ask

Potential clients who don’t know you aren’t just going to book you. The have they’re own sets of needs they are worried about. It is a good idea to have frequently asked questions posted somewhere on your website to ease potential clients’ worries. When you ease a client’s worries, you raise their client experience. The more questions you answer before they contact you, the more of an expert you appear.

Click MY FAQ PAGE to see my examples

Telling a Story with Photography

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Photography for most is just taking out a cell phone, capturing a cute image, and leaving it on your phone until you get a new phone and never see that image ever again. I’m guessing you’re clicking on my page because you want something more. I can definitely help you with that.

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Lets start with the easiest, most beautiful journey you will ever take, CHILDBIRTH. This is my favorite story to tell. I know how beautiful this story is because the next group of photos are of my family. Freezing these moments and mounting them on a wall will take you back to the way you felt when you were taking that journey. Lets do it the right way.

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For my corporate followers, you can tell a story too. Professionalism! It’s a simple story to tell, but it is also a very important one. Headshots are your clients’ first impression of you. Professional, uniform, and charismatic makes for a great first impression.

Whether you would like more information or you are ready to book, click on the button below.

Last Minute Event I Didn't Regret

Last Minute Event I Didn’t Regret

There was a man who went on Facebook looking for a photographer to photograph an event. A friend recommended me and since my friend and this man worked in the same circles and were well acquainted, the man took the recommendation seriously. I get booked. I show up to this last minute gig and immediately love the location, Alto in Montclair, NJ. I always touch base and ask who the VIPs might be so make my clients happy. To my surprise he says, “Make sure you get a bunch of shots of Frankie Fasion and Chad Coleman.”

If you don’t know, they are both from The Wire. Fasion was also the landlord in Coming To America. Chad Coleman played Tyresse in The Walking Dead seasons 3-5. I loved all three so I’ll admit, I was a little star struck when I was on an elevator with both of them.

Newborns: Behind the Curtain

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For those that are expecting or those thinking about photographing newborns, there is a lot that goes on to get “the shot.” Trust me. I get enough of “those shots” to fill an album. I have to. Its part of my newborn package.

I’ll skip what I bring to my shoots since I covered that already but if you’re new CLICK HERE TO SEE WHAT I BRING

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Invest in photoshop

I’ve invested lots of time into mastering Photoshop so what looks like a dangerous actually isn’t. SAFETY FIRST. The amount of time it takes to stitch these images together and the time to pose the baby.

inevitable

It is inevitable

Babies go where babies want to go. And yes, the diaper was on (not closed but covering). Consider it a right of passage. If you’re a photographer, this is what christens you as a newborn photographer. If you’re a parent, it means your baby approves of me.

Yes thats a bottle opener on my phone. No judging.

Blessings

I have it in my contract that I am allowed to use the images however I want (marketing & posting). Regardless of this, I make sure it’s ok with the parent if I post to social media. There are some weirdos out there. Out in the world, not parents… well sometimes parents.

Get in There

Parents trust me with their newborns so I can trust them with my camera. I know how to get the look I need in the shot so I set everything, tell the parent where to stand, and what button to press. ” Poof” beautiful shot and safe baby.

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A great graduation gift.

A great graduation gift.

If you have a question you can ask in the comment section.

My Friend Has a Camera

Please let me save you from yourself!

There have quite a few times through the years that I had to hear those dreaded words no photographer likes to hear, “I have a friend with a camera.” I simultaneously want to laugh and scream. I understand saving a few dollars, I really do. Talk to a photographer. There are some that will work with you.

There are times where people don’t see the value in spending the money and go with the friend with the camera. 9 times out of 10, this is what I end up seeing: Awkward posing, extra chins, bad effects added, red eyes, and all around creepy photos that hurt your business.

Would you trust your 401K or investment portfolio with the people on the left or right (top or bottom if you’re on your phone)? Today’s website experience is over saturated and 1st impressions are everything. The average person doesn’t stay on a website for more than 5 seconds. The photos on your page represent your product or service.

Can you trust something that important to a friend with a camera?

Don’t go with the friend with the camera

  • They don’t know how to pose, light, or flatter you. Photographers know how to relax you for a genuine smile. We know feminine, masculine, and power poses. Did you know that the way you feel will come through in your photos?

  • I doubt your friend is proficient in Photoshop. Most photographers know how to edit. The wrinkles, pimples, and stains will be gone from you image.

  • A photographer is putting their client first. You are paying for great service and amazing images while your friend is doing you a favor. If your friend is doing you a favor, they will get to the pictures when they get to the pictures.