the use of social networking
Posted by Dave on 11th November , 2009When I first took an interest in photography there was not really such a thing as social networking the extent of it was Faceparty. At that time finding new and interesting models was limited to modeling websites which was not ideal I like to shoot new faces.
Social networking has dramatically increased the number of models that are available for my work both new faces and established models. The creation of Facebook, Bebo, Twitter and MySpace has made networking a very quick and efficient process. This blog is also a source of networking used to expand my contacts.
I have looked into quite extensively the most effective ways to use such a medium of communication and the benefit comes from good integration of Social media sites and your own website. You need to give your contact new and interesting information. As a photographer I find that new photographs are the best medium. This in turn increases your followers and your network.
Social Networking is all about contacts and moving people from online screen name to the studio. This is done via the communication methods available on each social site such as private message. During these private message conversations don’t be afraid to drive your contacts to your website or your twitter as this will increase your visibility to the world and in turn your business.
Once you have the contacts and have a following it does not stop there. You need to give them something to keep the attention and engagement. This could be as simple as a weekly blog update or a post on Twitter directing to an interesting article. The more touch points you have with potential clients the better. When that wedding comes around or they need a portrait they will remember that they have seen 10 or 20 of your images over the last year and a few blogs. That could turn into a booking for you.
As always I will end with a few images.
Dave
