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  4. Is Craigslist a bad way to market your photography business?

Is Craigslist a bad way to market your photography business?


12 years 2 months ago #199424 by MYoung
I'm getting such a mix amount of answers on this question. Some say it's a good place to advertise others say it's all bargain shoppers there and you should avoid at all cost.

What's the real deal?
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12 years 2 months ago #199443 by Jim Photo
I guess that is really up the the photographer. Some will consider Craigslist as a venue for discounting your services. Other ways you can market yourself is with flyers, partnerships with bridal gown stores, tux shops, flower shops, etc. Give specials to customers of these shops. Hope that helps.
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12 years 2 months ago #199519 by No Show
If your just getting started then it might not be a bad idea to get some experience
D300| Nikkor 24-70mm 2.8 | Nikkor 70-200mm VR 2.8 | Nikkor 50mm 1.8 | Nikon 2x Teleconverter | Sigma 105mm 2.8 | Tokina 12-24
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12 years 2 months ago #199522 by Darrell
I think it is a great way to start, you need experience and exposure. Do a few weddings at low prices and have fun and learn.
You will not be judged as a photographer by the pictures you take, but by the pictures you show.
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12 years 2 months ago #199539 by Scotty
From someone who is heavy in the industry, its a huge no no. Not only will it pigeon hole you into lower end work, it'll severely piss off other pro photographers. This is a business of connections. Do not burn bridges over a quick buck.
When the last candle has been blown out
and the last glass of champagne has been drunk
All that you are left with are the memories and the images-David Cooke.
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12 years 2 months ago #199543 by Darrell

Scotty wrote: From someone who is heavy in the industry, its a huge no no. Not only will it pigeon hole you into lower end work, it'll severely piss off other pro photographers. This is a business of connections. Do not burn bridges over a quick buck.


What do you suggest for a wedding photographer starting out?
You will not be judged as a photographer by the pictures you take, but by the pictures you show.
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12 years 2 months ago #199546 by Scotty

Darrell wrote:

Scotty wrote: From someone who is heavy in the industry, its a huge no no. Not only will it pigeon hole you into lower end work, it'll severely piss off other pro photographers. This is a business of connections. Do not burn bridges over a quick buck.


What do you suggest for a wedding photographer starting out?


Be a second shooter and learn on the job.
When the last candle has been blown out
and the last glass of champagne has been drunk
All that you are left with are the memories and the images-David Cooke.
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12 years 2 months ago #199614 by icepics
Maybe Craigslist varies depending on where you live, but since it's come up on the board few times I've looked at the one in my area. Even under Arts or Community Events etc. there are a few legitimate posts amongst an awful lot that seem questionable at best and sound more like they want a date than something in the particular category. I would think you'd have to be careful what kind of offers you'd get there from prospective clients.

I thought Scotty's post meant that the info. he posted came from someone in the industry, but I think it's probably right that not too many professional photographers (if any) list in Craigslist. Darrell had some good suggestions that might be worth considering too.
Sharon
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12 years 2 months ago #199744 by Soccer Mom

Scotty wrote:

Darrell wrote:

Scotty wrote: From someone who is heavy in the industry, its a huge no no. Not only will it pigeon hole you into lower end work, it'll severely piss off other pro photographers. This is a business of connections. Do not burn bridges over a quick buck.


What do you suggest for a wedding photographer starting out?


Be a second shooter and learn on the job.


That's what I did back in day
Canon 7D, 18-55mm, 55-250mm, 70-200mm L f/2.8, 100mm and 17-55mm f/2.8
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12 years 2 months ago #199769 by Joves
Well here we have both pros and newbies posting their services on Craigslist. The I just got a camera ones stick out and the bargain hunters go for them. The pros advertise higher prices and show higher quality examples as well. I would still do as Scotty suggested and be a second to learn the business end because that is where the majority of people fail in the industry.That and you get to see what a true PITA weddings are without risking having a bad day and screwing up your reputation.
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12 years 2 months ago #200043 by crystal
On craigslist for my area, the only people who post are those who you can tell are starting out (due to their photos) but scream I am a pro who is charging $25 all photos on CD. (I'm not kidding about that price either)
www.crystalwightman.com
My Facebook.. www.facebook.com/cwightmanphotography
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12 years 2 months ago #200084 by Simon Says
I wouldn't go saying it's a "bad" place to advertise. It has a purpose, however expect to be among other photographers doing the same, some might be advertising less than what you are. It's a great place to start when you are getting started.
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12 years 2 months ago #200133 by lawson fhoto
Honestly I think it's a great way to advertise, but I also think it all depends on where you are at your photography level. I think it's good for photographers just starting out or been in the field but need to gain more clients.
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12 years 2 months ago #200324 by Wild Mitch

crystal wrote: On craigslist for my area, the only people who post are those who you can tell are starting out (due to their photos) but scream I am a pro who is charging $25 all photos on CD. (I'm not kidding about that price either)


Seriously? $25?? :blink:
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12 years 2 months ago #200527 by MYoung
You guys are so helpful, I think I'm going to give it a try till I get in full swing of things.
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