New here

[CMP]

I couldn't find an intro thread so I am posting here.
My name is Sara. I have a newer photography studio in Bonner Springs, Kansas.
I just opened it up in April. It's hard being in the photography business, mostly due to finding ways to let customers know you exist! Anyone else finding this same problem.

[walterick]

Welcome Sara! You found the right forum. You can also check out our Welcome thread where you can peruse the functions of our site.

I hear you about starting a new business. Of course word of mouth seems to work the best but there are also lots of advertising venues. I'm sure some of our other members will chime in with advice.

Enjoy your time here. And if you can, please take the time to review your photo gear as that is what keeps our site running.

Thanks!
Rick

[WesternGuy]

Hi Sara and welcome. I don't know much about the commercial photography business, but I do know that one of the necessities is a web page with your portfolio on display. All of the commercial photographers that I know of, have one. A lot of them don't have studios because they shoot landscapes and nature for stock, but they do have a lot of their work on it and usually a little bit about themselves. For example, take a look at this one...

http://www.keaywildlife.com

Hope this helps.

Cheers,

WesternGuy

[Frog]

Welcome, Sara!

[Lori11]

Hi Sara, Welcome! Don't forget to post some photo's some time too!

[megan]

An online presence is important.
Is there a local Chamber of Commerce that will put your link on their site?
What about the businesses around you (if you're a storefront.) Get linked with them.
Carry business cards with you at all times, and hand one to anyone you meet... on line at the grocery store, chatting at the park, at the gym... It's not weird or creepy, it's business. The more you hand out, the more likely someone will look at it someday and call you.
How about a local florist? Ask them for referrals. Do the same for them.
Ask your favorite restaurant/takeout place that you frequent if you can put a few cards there. They may say no, but they may say yes... you don't know if you don't ask. If they say no, be gracious and keep going there.

Good luck!