Architectural Photography

by Mike
(Cincinnati, Ohio USA)

I've been trying to build a business as an Architectural Photographer and the biggest hurdle I've come up against is reputation (or lack there of). I think it's important to build a portfolio and the web site is a big help in that regard. I imagine most clients expect a professional to have a professional looking web site.

I also carry a portfolio with about 30 images that attempt to show a broad range of conditions & project types. It also makes browsing in front of the client a lot easier.

I designed my business cards with the same logo as my web site for continuity / identity.

I've only been marketing myself for about 4 months now and have yet to earn a penny but I have about 3-4 strong leads that might turn into projects in the Spring.

I've tried photographing first and selling afterwards but I think that's the hard way to go. Usually I'm doing it with the idea it will build the portfolio and if I can sell the shot later that's gravy. But to sell the shots I have to get a property release from the owner. Currently, I have two projects in that category.

...that's my two cents.

www.mjhansonphotography.com