There are numerous techniques you can employ when needing to
source out a local commercial photographer. Below I've listed five of the main
search methods that I would recommend to try.
1. Local Printed Business
Directories. Under the category of 'Commercial and Industrial
Photographers' you are almost certain to find a few suitable and local
photographers. Unless of course you live in a particularly rural region where
you might need to search a bit further afield. Many commercial photographers
opt out of paid printed directories since the proliferation of online
directories that often prove to be a far more fruitful investment; therefore I
highly recommend that you conduct an internet search as well so not to overlook
these photographers.
2. Online
Directories. Online you'll find a wealth of both specialist photography
directories and more generic business directories. The good ones will have a
handy link to the photographers own home page which is a major advantage over
the printed directories. As with the printed versions always try to narrow your
search to only include 'commercial photographers' else the bulk of these
results will be wedding and family portrait photographers. A great convenient
search method if carried out well.
3. Search Engines.
Google, Yahoo, Ask, MSN, Bing or whatever you favour will sure to present you
with a comprehensive list of local photographers. As with all searches in order
to try and narrow down your search to mainly include commercial photography I
would recommend that you try typing in 'commercial photographer your location'.
Failing that, try replacing your location with a nearby city
or large town. Don't make the mistake of just clicking on the paid listings, or
for that matter only browsing the listings on the first page. Just because the
photographer invests a fortune to be listed number one, either to Google Ad
words or to a smart SEO (Search Engine Optimiser), doesn't necessarily make
them the right person for your project.
4. Professional
Photographic Bodies. AOP (Association Of Photographers), MPA (The Master
Photographers Association) and the BIPP (British Institute of professional
Photography) to name a few here in the UK. Most web sites of these professional
bodies will list commercial photographers working in your local region and
might provide you with some useful information on all aspects of finding and
commissioning photography.
Be aware that although lots of photographers understandably
like to be a part of these clubs and associations, many don't. Not because they
aren't professional or acclaimed in their field but simply because they don't
like or feel comfortable with such memberships. Also being a member of such
bodies does not guarantee quality, reliability or any professional code of
conduct; it just suggests that those photographers listed subscribe to it in
principal. So don't ignore or be unconvinced by non-members!
5. Personal
Testimonials. 'Word of Mouth' is a still a powerful marketing tool for any business
and one that I would certainly employ if searching for any local trade. A
personal recommendation is like gold dust. Ask them as many questions as you
can and then witness the photographers imagery first hand by flipping through
the portfolio section of their web site.
This will give you a good idea as to whether or not you
really like the style of the photographer, as you won't want to just book a
photographer because there are reliable; you've got to love their work too!
Working on a personal recommendation is always a great starting point and is a
good way of trying to side step as much risk as possible. Do still check out
their web site and don't just simply dismiss other less known photographers in
your area, as you may just be missing out on a real gem.
To conclude I would thoroughly recommend employing a healthy
mix of the above search techniques, draw up a shortlist and then carefully
compare and ultimately select the one that is right for your specific project.
Contact Us:
Abran Rubiner Photography
Add: Los Angeles,
California, 90001
Call 310-227-1853
Email: abran@rubinerphoto.com
Visit at: http://rubinerphoto.com/gallery/hotels/
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