Being a school photographer is a rewarding experience. Not only will you get to know the society’s future leaders, but you also contribute to the students’ memories that they will constantly look back in life.
As a photographer, it is common to see professionals flock in common niches such as events, travel, or even photojournalism. However, being a school photographer is sometimes underrated, but it can bring in a lot of potential in terms of career growth and income.
According to Daniel Doyle Pleasantville, a photography expert, it is possible to be a successful school photographer with the right strategies and networking. In this post, he will be sharing his insights on how to get started on a school photography business.
Daniel Doyle Pleasantville Shares How to Get Started as a School Photographer
Learn the basic to advanced techniques of school photography.
School photography has different facets. Whether you choose to focus on yearbook photos and class pictures, or you want to be an all-around events photographer within the school, you need to learn the basics and the advanced techniques of photography within the academe.
Some helpful tips in doing yearbook photos is using flattering light. Lighting is key when it comes to making your images sharp for yearbook pictures, so it is best to invest in a high-powered camera lighting along with a reflector to block any shadows.
For events photography within the school, you may be asked to take pictures of students in action during sports competitions. Dan Doyle Pleasantville suggests that you learn some techniques on live action photography to capture crisp images even in fast motion. Placing your camera on high-speed setting can help you achieve better results for sporting events.
Research on nearby schools within your scope of business.
The first step is preparation in your planned expertise. The second step is searching for prospects within your local area. At this point, you should list down schools that you think may be interested in photography services.
You may use Google Maps to search for schools within your area. List down the school’s address, contact number, and other pertinent details. You will need it later on once you start pitching your services in-person or online.
Make flyers and brochures about your services.
Once you’re done listing the schools who may be potential clients, you can call for a meeting to introduce your services. Present a brochure of your services along with a clear explanation of what you do. Here are some of the important details you should include in your brochures or flyers:
- The types of services you offer
- The prices for each or a contact number for quotation
- Packages and promotions available
- Finished product for previous clients
- Testimonials and recommendations if there’s any
- Contact details and other important business information
Even if you don’t get to meet an administrative staff within the school, the flyers and brochures will serve as your “representative” in case they are interested in your services.
Market yourself as a school photography expert.
There are many ways to make yourself an authoritative figure in school photography. You can either create a blog, produce video content, or provide advice for other photographers within your niche.
If you position yourself as an expert in school photography, you will less likely beg for clients–rather, they would come to you. Digital marketing is a great way to get started on positioning yourself as a figure of authority.
It may be a challenge to get the word out about your business, but don’t be discouraged. Dan Doyle Pleasantville recommends sticking to these steps to see great results in growing your school photography business