What in particular from a photographer’s portfolios are key? What are reps looking for specifically in the work or how it’s presented?
We are looking for images that pop, feel strong, and ooze with production value. We know we have seconds to impress a client so your images have to speak for themselves and make a fast impact. The best images are ones that can flow on an overview and sell each other. Images that relate to each other, not always in category but cohesively in style and vibe.
How do you even start going about the hunt for a rep?
You want a rep who also wants you! Do your research on Workbook.com to find where your images would fit best within the rep’s specific genres. Email us something short + sweet with your website link and a referral if we know someone in common. It really should be that simple because reps are looking for you as well. Talk to other photographers about their reps to get their feedback. Make sure you are ready for a rep, but that is a whole other topic we will be discussing on my Webinar this week, “All About Reps.”
If there is a pent up demand at the end of this, how can we be ready for what comes next?
This one is easy and has been true for the 24 years I’ve been repping photographers – it’s all about your portfolio. Get your branding and portfolio vision clear and on it’s path. Do your research and educate yourself by looking at photographers who you respect. Use this time with the main purpose of finessing where your portfolio needs nips and tucks. Storyboard your upcoming tests now, be ready for when you can get back out there, and know the exact direction in which you will be headed.
What are your thoughts on bidding on a big job for a client when your portfolio does not reflect the same exact category of work?
It’s not black or white because I’ve had experiences where a photographer’s style and the client’s confidence in that style landed them the job. In that instance, it was Toby Pederson booking an Apple campaign that included people in the images, even though he had no people in his portfolio. Then there are instances when I can sense the photographer’s bid is in 3rd place because their work isn’t exactly reflective of the job’s requirements. I would advise you to get in the mix. Your work will be on their radar and use it as an opportunity to show what you can do.
I’m finalizing my portfolio and wondering if I should have separate books for different categories, or one larger book with more variety? I mainly shoot portraits and fitness. There are many through lines to my work but also some vast differences.
Ah, the million dollar question. The answer can change depending on what is timely, so keep that in mind. I know photographers who present their work on printed 8x10s inside a beautifully made box, as a way to stand out. The client can always see your website or social media feeds to get a fuller picture of your work. Create a package that feels like you and understand that the presentation might change in a year or two to reflect current trends. Keep it fresh and the bottom line is you want the client to see your style but at the same time, have your images speak louder than the actual portfolio.
Should you create two instagram profiles? One for portraits and the other for products? Or combine both into one profile?
If you have two separate businesses and websites this would make sense. But assuming you don’t, the best way to sell yourself is to have one strong cohesive style that is evident in everything you shoot. Two separate profiles will lower the quality of your work and create the appearance of two separate brands.
I once heard the very wise rep Rhoni Epstein of Photo Therapists say, “Build your brand on a T shape. Build a strong style and then expand once it is sturdy.”
Follow her advice.
www.phototherapists.com
Is it better to find a rep who has photographers with a similar style to mine? Or should I find a company where I could potentially fill a void and stand out?
Don’t focus only on their roster of photographers. You should primarily be looking to find a rep who works with your dream client base. You also need to factor in if your work is of a similar standard to their photographers. If it isn’t up to that standard yet, focus on bringing up the quality of your work first so you’re better positioned to find a top tier rep.
How do you figure out your style? I am working towards making my work cohesive and really struggling with this…
The answer to this question can make or break your career. Familiarize yourself with photographers doing the kind of work you want to be doing, and doing it on a high level. Study them. Understand the difference between a cohesive portfolio, with a clear through line and those who have many different styles. Identify your own visual instincts and apply them every time you shoot. Learn to become objective so you can be the best judge of your own work.
What would it take to get you to rep me?
It would take a powerful and compelling body of work that displays a unique, but marketable, style that brands would be willing to pay for. It also comes down to personality for me, I need to trust and enjoy the daily interactions of working with a photographer and have a compatible style of communication.
