Reps

Q:

Can a photographer be represented by more than one rep, in different locations?

A:

Yes, some photographers have east coast/west coast/midwest reps. I don’t agree with this for myself because I’ve worked hard to get to know clients everywhere. 

With the internet I am able to be in NY, Chicago, Portland and Europe as easily as I’m in Los Angeles. 

Just today I have been on calls with people in New York, Kansas City and Los Angeles. I emailed with the UK, Germany and a variety of clients across the US… The only reason to have different reps is if they cover different types of clients.

Q:

What are you looking for in a new photographer?

A:

Guest Post, Jorge Perez: I want a photographer who has a business sense. There are a lot of artists out there who create beautiful art, but if they do not have a mind for business they will not make it. 

I am looking for a partner in crime when it comes to their business. 

You have to be your own agent first, get yourself work. It’s a red flag to me if someone has been shooting for 25 years and has never had a rep. 

Guest Post: Jorge Perez, JP Reps

Q:

What’s the best way for a photographer seeking representation to reach you?

A:

Guest Post, Jorge Perez: I prefer emails. But with that said, you need to be innovative.

You have to “cut through the clutter” . We get a million emails a day. If it’s a new photographer seeking representation – make the email short, personalize it, put the one best image that represents your work. 

Keep it short and quick. Even direct message me on Instagram. Think outside the box. 

Guest Post: Jorge Perez, JP Reps

Q:

Does a rep match a photographer to a project? I.e., does a rep evaluate whether a certain project is actually RIGHT for that photographer; their aesthetic, their vision, their desired projects?

A:

No. Reps don’t have that much power. We are the negotiation voices for our photographers so we are asked to bid someone that they choose. I am sometimes asked to send them a photographer who would be good for their project, but they ultimately decide who they want to bid and then hire.

The key to getting more out of your rep is to supply them with fun new work. We are human! Excite us and we will run to the streets to show it off.

Q:

What are reps looking for?

A:

Reps are looking for a photographer who will fit into their company and the clients they work with. 

We also look for people who will reinforce the branding of our companies and the photographers we already rep. Personally, I look to rep people I believe in, who I will enjoy collaborating with and that I can share in their vision.

Q:

What is considered a standard “book” for somebody seeking representation… is it a website? A physical book? Something else?

A:

The standard book question does not have one absolute answer but it is good to have a website, an active Instagram presence, and a printed book. An iPad can be your portfolio although right now printed books are the hot item.

Q:

What kind of percentage do reps typically take?

A:

25% of the photographer’s day rate or creative fee

Q:

What kind of marketing strategies have you found to be successful as a photo agent?

A:

This is a broad question. Strategies really depend on who the person is and what they are good at. I enjoy connecting with people so that is my strategy. If you are shy perhaps send out some work once you know which images your target audience likes. Or get really good at social media and networking online. Basically, the strategy needs to incorporate your best skills and then get your best work out there. How that is done depends on your skill set. What are you good at? Use that.

Q:

How can I become represented? It’s always been a dream to stand out and have reps on my side.

A:

Get your book as strong as you can, find your specialty and build a cohesive portfolio. Find the reps that work in your industry and approach them with a personal and quick email. The quality of your work will speak for itself and doors will open. Just get your work out there once it’s ready!