K.I.S.S.
Keep It Simple Stupid
Sorry, I’m not calling you stupid. It was a phrase my art professors used in college. K.I.S.S. This couldn’t be more important when organizing your website, social media, and exclusive content. There are so many things a business can offer and talk about that potential clients can get lost in the sauce.
The K.I.S.S. version of this blog
Stick to posting about one niche. Make sure your site is super user friendly and there is always a way clients can contact you.
the long-winded,hyper EXPLAINED version
Consistent Voice
Lets use Nike for this point. They have a consistent voice. Everything is about sports. When you make a website, know your voice and be consistent. Nike doesn’t dip into politics or comedy. They stick to sports. Say the same thing on your website that you say on your social media. Say the same thing on Twitter that you say on Threads. Have the same voice you have on TikTok that you have on Instagram. You never know where your next client will come from.
Ease of use
Your website is where potential clients will be directed when they run a Google Search. This is where implementing K.I.S.S. will help the most. Keep your website as simple as possible. Treat your website visitors like a teenager with ADHD. Keep they’re attention by getting to the point immediately. Who are you? What do you do? This is how you can be contacted. Try to go with a minimalist layout. Less is more.
Put it all together
Having a clear voice means the client knows exactly what you’re offering. An easy to use website will keep the client engaged. The minute you lose the client’s attention by posting about something that has nothing to do with what you’re selling or there is too much text, bells, and whistles; the client moves on to the next site or post.
See the difference?
Save Money, Get Digitals
Save Money, Get Digitals
Investing in digital backgrounds for newborn photography can offer several benefits:
1. Versatility: Digital backgrounds allow for easy customization and flexibility in creating unique and personalized images for your clients. With a wide range of backgrounds available, you can quickly and easily switch between different themes and styles, without the need for physical props or location changes.
2. Time-saving: Using digital backgrounds can save you valuable time during photo shoots, as you won't need to spend time setting up and adjusting physical backdrops. This efficiency can enable you to focus more on capturing great images and interacting with your clients.
3. Cost-effective: Digital backgrounds are often more affordable than physical backdrops, especially in the long run. Once purchased, a digital background can be used repeatedly without incurring additional costs, unlike physical backdrops which may require maintenance, storage, or replacement.
4. Easy to use: With basic knowledge of photo editing software, incorporating digital backgrounds into your images is relatively simple. Many digital backgrounds come with tutorials or instructions, making the learning curve accessible for photographers at all skill levels.
With the correct light source and knowledge of layers and masks in Photoshop, digital backdrops can add variety to your newborn photo sessions.
When is the Best Time to Promote Christmas Sessions?
When is the Best Time to Promote Christmas Sessions?
To maximize interest and ensure a steady stream of clients, it's generally a good idea to start promoting Christmas photo sessions several months in advance, usually around September or early October. This allows potential clients enough time to learn about your services and plan their holiday photo shoots accordingly.
Early promotion (September - early October): Announce that you'll be offering Christmas photo sessions and encourage clients to book early to secure their preferred dates. Offer early-bird discounts or special incentives for clients who book during this period.
Mid-season promotion (mid-October - November): Continue promoting your Christmas photo sessions through social media, email campaigns, and other marketing channels. Share photos from previous holiday shoots to showcase your work and create a sense of urgency by reminding clients that spots are filling up fast.
Last-minute promotion (December): Target last-minute shoppers and clients who may have missed your earlier promotions. Offer limited-time discounts or special offers to attract clients who still want to capture memorable holiday moments.
Keep in mind that it's essential to communicate deadlines for clients to receive their photos in time for holiday cards or gifts. By promoting your Christmas photo sessions well in advance and maintaining a strong marketing presence throughout the season, you'll increase your chances of attracting a steady stream of clients and ensuring a successful holiday photography season.
Moral of this story… Start promoting NOW!
Wedding, Portrait, or Product: Which Photography Makes the Most?
WHO…
BANKS…
THE MOST?
Which type of photography banks the most? If we assume the three types of photographers have the same level of skill, customer relationships, and marketing knowledge, we can examine some general trends in these three photography fields.
Portrait Photographer
Portrait photographers typically work with individuals or families to capture special moments, create professional headshots, or document milestones like graduations, engagements, or maternity shoots. Their income can vary widely, but according to data from Salary.com, the average annual salary for a portrait photographer in the United States is around $45,000 to $65,000. Keep in mind that earnings can be higher for experienced photographers who have established a strong reputation or specialized in a particular niche like high-end, luxury portraits.
Wedding Photographer
Wedding photographers capture one of the most significant moments in a couple's life, and their services are often in high demand. According to a survey by WeddingWire, the average cost of a wedding photographer in the United States is around $2,000 to $5,000 per event, with experienced photographers in high demand locations earning even more. On average, a successful wedding photographer can earn between $50,000 to $100,000 annually, but this largely depends on the number of weddings they book, the packages they offer, and their reputation in the industry.
Product Photographer
Product photographers work with businesses and brands to create compelling images for advertising, marketing, and e-commerce purposes. The income range for product photographers can vary widely, with factors such as experience, location, and the specific industry they serve playing a role. According to ZipRecruiter, the average annual salary for product photographers in the United States is around $60,000, with some top earners making over $100,000 annually.
In summary, all three types of photographers have the potential to earn a comfortable income, with wedding photographers possibly having the highest earning potential on average due to the demand for their services and the high value placed on capturing such a significant event. However, individual results may vary, and it's essential for photographers in any field to continually hone their skills, build their portfolios, and market themselves effectively to maximize their earning potential.
Alignable vs. LinkedIn
Alignable vs. LinkedIn
In today's digital age, networking platforms have become essential tools for professionals seeking to expand their connections and explore new opportunities. Two popular platforms used for business networking are Alignable and LinkedIn. Let's delve into a comparison of these platforms, examining their key features, user bases, and overall focus.
Alignable
Alignable is a small business-focused networking platform that aims to connect local businesses and facilitate referrals and collaboration. Some key features include:
Local focus: Alignable emphasizes connecting with nearby businesses, making it ideal for entrepreneurs and professionals seeking to engage in local networking.
Business advice: The platform allows members to share knowledge, tips, and resources with their peers.
Referral network: Alignable helps businesses build and maintain relationships with other local businesses, leading to mutually beneficial referrals.
LinkedIn is a global networking platform catering to professionals across all industries, job levels, and company sizes. Key features include:
Global reach: With over 700 million users worldwide, LinkedIn offers vast networking potential and the ability to connect with professionals from various industries and locations.
Professional branding: Users can showcase their skills, experience, and accomplishments through detailed profiles, allowing them to build their personal brand.
Job search and recruiting: LinkedIn is a popular destination for job seekers and recruiters, offering job listings, applicant tracking, and networking opportunities.
Comparison
When comparing Alignable and LinkedIn, consider your networking goals and needs. Alignable is an excellent choice for small business owners and professionals seeking to establish local connections, collaborate with nearby businesses, and exchange referrals. LinkedIn, on the other hand, is a more comprehensive platform suited to professionals looking to expand their global network, explore job opportunities, and develop their personal brand.
Ultimately, both platforms serve unique purposes and can be valuable tools in your professional networking strategy. By utilizing both Alignable and LinkedIn, you can tap into the distinct benefits of each platform and broaden your networking potential.
Headshots in Action
Elevate Your Personal Brand with Custom Headshot Business Cards
In today's competitive business landscape, making a strong first impression is crucial. One way to stand out from the crowd and showcase your professionalism is by investing in custom headshot business cards. Here are some key benefits of using headshot business cards to elevate your personal brand:
Memorable First Impression
A well-designed business card with a high-quality, professional headshot makes a lasting impression on potential clients, partners, and colleagues. Your headshot showcases your personality and professionalism, while the card itself demonstrates your attention to detail and commitment to quality.
Establish Credibility and Trust
Investing in custom headshot business cards communicates your dedication to your personal brand and your field of work. This attention to detail helps establish credibility and trust with potential clients and partners, who will feel confident in your ability to deliver exceptional results.
Effective Networking Tool
Having a stack of custom headshot business cards on hand makes it easy to exchange contact information and connect with others at events, conferences, and meetings. Your professional headshot will help new connections remember you and your brand, making it more likely they'll reach out when they need your services.
If you're ready to take your personal brand to the next level, consider investing in custom headshot business cards. I will work closely with you to capture the perfect headshot and design a card that reflects your unique style and brand. Contact me today to get started!
Boost Your Business with Professional Headshots & Product Photography
Boost Your Business with Professional Headshots & Product Photography
In today’s highly competitive market, making a great first impression is crucial to the success of your business. One effective way to achieve this is by investing in professional headshots and product photography. In this blog post, we’ll explore the numerous benefits of using high-quality images to showcase your brand and products.
Professional Headshots: Putting a Face to Your Brand
Professional headshots are an excellent way to introduce yourself and your team to potential clients and partners. These images reflect the personality and professionalism of your business, and here are some of the key benefits:
Build trust and credibility: A polished and well-presented headshot conveys the message that you’re an expert in your field, making it easier for clients to trust and invest in your products or services.
Enhance your brand image: Consistent, high-quality headshots across your team create a cohesive and visually appealing brand image that sets you apart from the competition.
Boost engagement on social media: Adding a professional headshot to your social media profiles humanizes your brand and encourages people to engage with your content, fostering valuable connections with your audience.
Product Photography: Showcasing Your Offerings
In the age of online shopping, high-quality product photography is a powerful tool to attract customers and boost sales. Here’s how professional product photos can make a difference:
Boost your conversion rate: High-quality images that accurately represent your products can influence purchasing decisions and increase your conversion rate.
Reduce product returns: Detailed and accurate images help customers make informed decisions, reducing the likelihood of returns and improving customer satisfaction.
Strengthen your brand identity: Consistent and visually appealing product photography reinforces your brand’s style and aesthetic, creating a memorable impression on potential customers.
Investing in Professional Photography: A Smart Business Move
Professional headshots and product photography are essential components of a successful branding strategy. By investing in high-quality images, you can showcase your business in the best possible light, build trust with potential clients, and ultimately increase your bottom line.
To take your business to the next level, consider partnering with GR Design & Photography for professional headshots and product photography services. Our experienced team specializes in creating stunning images that highlight the unique strengths of your brand. Contact us today to get started!
Branding FAQ
Branding FAQs
Branding photography is the images used to represent your business. It showcases your product’s quality, your team’s approachability, and your professionalism through elements such as headshots and well-designed logos. This is made with product photography, headshot photography, lifestyle photography, and graphic design. Here are a few frequently asked questions when it comes to branding.
What makes a GR Design & Photography branding session different?
Branding photographers will get your business amazing photography to put on your website. A graphic designer can make a great logo, brochures, and set up advertisements for your marketing. I can do both. There is no need to search for multiple vendors when one will suffice.
Where do I start?
So you’re a new business but aren’t sure where to get started, or you’re an established business but don’t know how to revamp your look. I can guide you through multiple options the average business needs. From something as small as a business card to something as big as setting up ads for billboards, magazines, and websites.
What are some of the things included in branding sessions?
Some things include in branding sessions are as follows: Headshot, corporate half/full day sessions, product photography, bts or lifestyle photography, and graphic design. Graphic design elements include: logos, advertising design, brochures with pricing or business info, and more.
In conclusion…
Branding photography and design can raise the value of your business. If you have a great service based business but no images of you in action, you’re missing opportunities to connect with clients. If you have a remarkable product, but have cellphone images poorly displayed on your website then potential customers will click back on Google search and find something that does look professional. Quality photography and well executed graphic design can lead to more leads. More leads can snowball into more sales and that is everyone’s goal in business.
Click for a branding consult. We can discuss your business needs.
Maternity Photo FAQ
Your pregnancy is a very important, emotional part of your life. You’re only pregnant with this baby once. If you want to cherish those memories with a maternity photographer here are some FAQ so you can get the best time during your session and images from that session possible.
Where do you start?
Shop around. Look at photographers’ websites. Their gallery should have many examples of maternity. The more different examples of pregnant bellies, the more experience. The more experience a photographer has, the better your session will be. Talk to your potential photog. The vibe you get over the phone (YES TALK ON THE PHONE) is an indication of the vibe you will get in person. Do they know your questions before you ask? Do they have locations at the ready? Are they confident with the price they give you?
What to Wear?
Some photographers provide maternity dresses. If you need to provide your own, you can find the dress you want from $30 up to $200 for a moderately priced dress. Extravagant dresses can go from $300- thousands. My recommendation as a photographer is to get something that hugs the belly. We want it to be painfully obvious that this portrait session is about the belly. When the dress doesn’t hug the belly, you tend to look like you’re in a pretty dress that is loose.
When to photograph?
When should you photograph your maternity session? Two things determine when you should photograph your session: how big your belly is and how mobile you still are. Every pregnancy is different. You might be 6 months and look like you’re having twins. In my experience, the end of 7m- the beginning of 8m is where you show the most and are still comfortable getting around. I do not recommend booking close to 9m. There is always a chance you deliver early.
Does a Photographer NEED a Studio?
Does a Photographer NEED a Studio?
The short answer is NO! You don’t need a college degree either. The truth is you really can just pick up a camera, charge x amount for x type of photography, and be very lucrative. Social media and educational videos have made this easier than ever to achieve but the question is do you need a studio? There are drawbacks and benefits to having a studio.
big Expense
Prior to writing this blog, I did a quick retail space search for Northern New Jersey. A studio space in this area can run you anywhere from $16 - $90 a square foot. That is $24,000 - $135,000 per year for a 1,500 sq ft depending on the location. If you can still make a profit from your photography then get the studio. If that isn’t a route you want to take, you can stick to outdoor portraits, events, on location sessions, or you can rent a studio for the amount of time needed.
Convenience
I went the way of not having a studio. Photographing a newborn session was a task: getting props out of storage, packing the car, going to the client, unpacking and setting up the props, photographing the baby, breaking down, pack the car, and putting props back in storage. Not only is this a pain but it also limits how many sessions I was able to take in a day. With a studio I would hypothetically be able to book a newborn every 3 hours. If I was able to book from 9-5, I could photograph 4 sessions in a day. At $1,000 for my base newborn package, that would be $4,000 in one day (not including editing time). I can leave my props. I can edit with no interruptions.
opportunities for extra income
Depending on your leasing agreement, you more than likely will be able to rent out your studio space when you are not booked, editing, or answering emails. I’ve seen studios charge hourly, half day, and full day rates. You can choose to charge for equipment and props as well. Another opportunity I would throw out there is hosting a Meetup. Meetup gets a percentage of what you charge so make it worth it. Teach a lighting or posing class. Photographers would line up for a pricing class.
Clearly, there are risks that go with a studio. The rewards can outweigh the risks if you have the proper plan, customer service, and photographic skill. Only you know if you are able to put in the work to make your studio a successful one. There are certain corners you can cut. Instead of a retail space, have an in-home studio. When it comes to the business of photography, one can get very creative. So… do you need a studio?
What is Branding Photography?
What is Branding Photography?
Branding photography is the practice of creating and using images to establish and reinforce a business's brand identity. It involves capturing visuals that showcase the values, personality, and uniqueness of a brand. These images are used across various marketing materials, such as websites, social media, advertisements, and brochures, to communicate the essence of the brand to the target audience.
Sure, that’s the book definition, but what does that mean? Think of Nike. It’s a sneaker and sportswear company. The branding photography for Nike, 9 times out of 10, is fit people exercising. Carhartt has blue collar men (and women) working hard at their blue collar job. Apple is sleek. The images focus on the sleek lines of their “high end” products.
Branding photography is important for businesses because it helps to create a strong and memorable brand presence. Visuals are often the first thing that potential customers notice about a brand, and high-quality, cohesive images can make a significant impact on how the brand is perceived. Consistent branding photography helps to build brand recognition, establish credibility, and differentiate a business from its competitors. It also helps to evoke emotions, tell a story, and create a connection with customers, ultimately leading to increased brand loyalty and sales.
In conclusion, hire a professional. Give them your ideas. Someone with experience will know how to turn your ideas to reality. AI isn’t there yet so I would stay away. Once your branding is established it is up to you to give the costumer experience to match your branding. Good luck out there.
is your brand blue collar?
is your brand sheek?
Is your brand collaborative?
Buy Used Camera Gear
Buy Used
I know you see your favorite photographers online with the latest lenses and most expensive camera body and you begin to think that is what you need to be a successful photographer. It’s not! You don’t NEED a Canon R1, 3, or 5 with any L series lens. You NEED to know how to market so you book consistently. You NEED to know you CRM and editing programs front and back. You NEED to know how to pose. If you are starting out, I recommend you buy used. Once you book consistently, the new equipment will pay for itself.
Used
Used Camera Body: Canon 5D Mark IV:
$1,447
Used Camera Lens: Canon 24-70 F/4 L:
$699
Used Strobe: Godox H2400P Flash Head:
$558
Total: $2,704
New
Camera Body: Canon R5 Mirrorless:
$3,399
Camera Lens: Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8 L:
$2399
Strobe: Godox AD400:
$649
Total: $6447
True beginners, don’t spend your money on either columns. Get a base prosumer (pro consumer) camera like a Canon Rebel and learn your camera for under $500. With the money you are saving, go to CREATIVE LIVE and learn posing, Photoshop, Lightroom, and marketing. Then go to SproutStudio so you can start taking clients. It’s a lot at first, but the more you do it, the better you will get. Happy shooting.
Post Session Etiquette
Post Session Etiquette
I went over what to do when you are hunting for a photographer and what to do during your session. Now your session is done and you want you pictures. Here are some dos and don’ts while you wait for them.
Be Patient
Please don’t text your photographer an hour after the session asking if your pictures are done yet. Photographers will tell you ahead of time what their turn around time is. I say two weeks and deliver in a few days. My process is you get a gallery and pick your favorites. I edit them in Photoshop and deliver them to you. Workflow varies photographer to photographers. Ask if they don’t tell you ahead of time.
You’re Not Getting the Raws
Click here to see a film negative. You wouldn’t ask a photographer for their film negative. The RAW file is the equivalent. It is also what comes straight out of the camera. It has all the blemishes and eyesores in the picture that was taken. The photographer edits all that out. This is the simple answer. The intricate answer has to do with copyright, owning the image, and a bunch of legal jargon.
Filters are a Slap In the Face
I thought this went without saying but I have heard horror stories so now I’m saying it. Don’t put filters on your final images. You paid a lot of money for that photographer’s creativity and editing style. No filter looks good and it makes the photographer’s work look bad. It has gotten so bad, we put it in our contracts. No filter and logo must be visible. It’s like going to Ruth Chris Steakhouse and throwing ranch on a porterhouse steak.
The benefits of doing the things I said in Photographer Hunting Etiquette, Photography Session Etiquette, and this blog will foster a great relationship with your photographer. Don’t be surprised if you start receiving emails with deals and appreciation gifts in the mail. Don’t do these things and you might not have your emails or phone calls answered.
Photography Session Etiquette
Photo Session Etiquette
(2/3)
In Photographer Hunting Etiquette I went over what to do when picking a photographer. This blog will go over once you have decided on a photographer. It doesn’t take much to have a successful session. Here are my three suggestions:
Lock It In
Any decent photographer is going to have a contract and a booking fee. Read it, ask questions, and pay the fee. This ensures the date in question is yours. If anyone else is inquiring about that day it will be first come, first serve. Nothing personal to you the client, but photographers have been stood up or ghosted by potential clients. A booking fee ensures you are serious about the session.
Ask Questions
There is nothing wrong with asking your photographers all the questions. A good photographer will already have ways to prep you for the session. If they don’t, here are some questions you may want to ask: what to wear, where can we photograph, what can I bribe my children with for a good session? It is better to be fully prepared than to go into your session wondering, “did I pick the right dress?”
Stick to the Schedule
If you are photographing in a studio or on location for a holiday session, be on time. Photographers often book more than one session a day. For holiday sessions on a Christmas tree farm or a park that requires a permit, there is a time limit. If a photographer books 8 sessions at 20 minute increments, your session is either going to be pushed to the back of the line or you won’t get the full 20 minutes.
If you are wondering why certain photographers are a higher price points, it is because they inform you of these types of issues. They let you know everything to expect so there are no surprises during or after your session. If you do end up with an inexperienced photographers, don’t be shy, ask the tough questions. If you liked these 2 etiquette blogs, check back for part three. I’ll go over post session etiquette.
Photographer Hunting Etiquette
Photographer Hunting Etiquette
(1/3)
If you are in need of a photographer here are some tips on etiquette to get the most enjoyable experience out of the photographer you end up choosing.
Don’t leave us hanging
Don’t leave us hanging. It’s fine to shop around. I recommend it. When you decide on a photographer after talking with multiple photographers, let the rest know you won’t be working with them. Put the others out of their misery so they don’t have to hold that date you inquired about. This is important for wedding date and portraits where the photographer has fifteen, twenty, or thirty minute time slots.
Not a Bazaar
We are not in a bazaar in Belarus. Please do not haggle over the pricing a photographer offers. I’ll let you behind the curtain for a minute. Photographers have expenses, especially if they have a studio they work out of. The only thing, in my opinion, you should ask is if paying cash drops the tax. No photographer wants to drop their price but the less experienced photogs will out of fear of losing the client.
Pick One
If you are having a wedding or an event at a large venue and feel you need more than one photographer, don’t hire two separate photographers. Pick a photographer you like and tell them you would like a second shooter. Nine times out of ten, that photographer has a pool of photographer friends who get along and photograph similarly. It will be more cost effective also since all 2nd shooters give their images to the main shooter to edit. Two separate photographers not working together are charging you full price since they are handling the session as if they were by themselves.
If you found this beneficial, click here for PART 2 During the Session
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.
What Makes an Effective Logo?
What Makes an Effective Logo?
A well-designed logo not only visually represents a brand but also communicates its essence to the viewers. An effective logo is a powerful tool that can instantly grab attention, create a memorable impression, and establish a strong identity for a business or organization. So, what are the key elements that make a logo truly effective?
Simplicity & Memorability
The first and foremost characteristic of a successful logo is simplicity. A clean and uncluttered design allows for easy recognition and makes a logo memorable. A simple logo is versatile and can be easily reproduced across different mediums and sizes without losing its impact. Think of iconic logos like Nike's swoosh or Apple's bitten apple logo; their simplicity is what makes them instantly recognizable worldwide.
Reflecting the Brand's Identity
An effective logo should capture the essence of the brand it represents. It should visually communicate the organization's mission, values, and characteristics. The color palette, typography, and visual elements used in the logo should align with the brand's personality. For example, a fast-food chain might choose bold and vibrant colors with a playful font to convey a sense of energy and fun. The logo should create an emotional connection with the audience and leave a lasting impression of what the brand stands for.
Versatility & Timelessness
An effective logo should be versatile and adaptable to various applications. Whether it's being used on a website, a billboard, or a business card, a logo should remain impactful in different sizes and formats. Additionally, a logo should strive for timelessness. While trends come and go, a logo should aim to be relevant and visually appealing for years to come. A logo that stands the test of time helps to build brand recognition and instills trust and loyalty among consumers.
In conclusion, simplicity, memorability, reflectiveness of the brand's identity, versatility, and timelessness are the key factors that make a logo truly effective. A successful logo represents a brand at a glance, leaving a lasting impression while telling a coherent story. By carefully considering these elements, businesses and organizations can create logos that captivate audiences and build strong brand identities.
Need a Logo?
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.
