Reps

So many factors that lead to a rep signing a photographer. Portfolio of course, are you marketable to my client base, communication style–ultimately for me it comes down to my guy. For example, Jeff Stockwell had an Instagram spread that really grabbed my attention and if you look, I think you’ll understand what I mean. That spoke to me!

Q:

How do you even start going about the hunt for a rep?

A:

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.”

Is now the time to look for a rep?

Yes!

Reps are looking for what clients are looking for. Bring your solutions to today’s issues and you will find more open rep doors than before.

We are all dealing with current issues like diversity, social distancing, and maintaining safety. Addressing these issues can be crucial, and right now is a good time to do so because the opportunities might be more open. However, it’s important to research the right reps for you. Look for reps who have clients and a style that aligns with your work and branding. Not every rep will be a good fit. I recommend reaching out via email or Instagram rather than making phone calls. Find a rep who is genuinely interested in representing you, as their response will indicate if it’s the right time to move forward.

Q:

I’ve heard from several people in the business that you don’t need representation unless you are too busy to book and manage the business yourself. How true is this?

A:

Most photographers would do better having a rep’s overall support. Some types of photographers may do well on their own if they handle their own social media marketing. If you have the skills that a full-time rep would bring to your business, then you can always do it on your own, but if you aren’t the best negotiator then the bottom-line question is, would a rep protect and negotiate higher fees for you?

Q:

How does an unrepresented photographer stay in the game through this?

A:

I do think unrepresented photographers need to up their game right now to match the problem solving communication reps are offering to clients. Reps tend to be in touch with clients even when it’s not about specific jobs. Photographers are usually in touch with clients when it’s about a job. So proactively engage more, reach out, and contact more on a personal level. I always say, know your audience and what they are experiencing. Well, right now people are needing people and true connection. Go out there (online) and get to know each other.

Q:

How do you feel the agent/photographer relationship will change?

A:

I felt the agent/photographer relationship shifting a bit in the last couple years where more photographers weren’t requiring representation the way they used to because of all the open public channels of social media. Although right now that seems to be swaying back as I’m hearing from clients who are searching for options from larger groups (reps) to figure out who can even shoot right now. This seems like a real person-to-person time right now, under these conditions the old school relationships are what people are leaning on. It’s hard for me to say how this will affect the future but it’s what I’m noticing right now.

Q:

If a rep’s roster is full, would they ever recommend a photographer to another rep that might be a good fit?

A:

I highly doubt one rep would pass along the name of a good photographer to another rep. We are competitive beings and that goes against our grain. I can’t speak for other reps but I don’t see that happening. I usually get photographer recommendations through art producers at ad agencies.

Q:

What is the best way for a photographer seeking representation to get the attention of potential reps?

A:

I’ve been asked this question in many ways over the years but the simple answer is a rep will see your work and make a decision about whether or not they can find you work. Emailing a rep directly and showing your website is still the most effective way to get a rep’s attention.

Q:

Should I try to get a rep so I can start bidding on bigger jobs, or do I need the bigger jobs before I find a rep?

A:

Typically, you need to be bidding on jobs and have existing relationships in order for a rep to do their job. A rep can use their own relationships to get your work in front of new eyes, but your portfolio is where your career lives and dies. If you’re not bidding on jobs yet, that means your portfolio isn’t ready. Work on your portfolio.

Q:

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?

A:

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.