Networking is said to be one of the most powerful tools for growing your business. The more people you know, the more the word can be spread about the service you offer, and as a referral is always better than an advertisement, networking cannot be ignored.
There are numerous networking groups around the county, and having tried a few I've decided to join INC and Business Friends. Both groups meet fortnightly in local hotels, and the meeting consists of each member giving a one or two minute summary of their business and the services it provides. A more in depth 10 minute presentation is then given by one member per meeting, and the rest of the time is spent "Networking" - talking to other businesses about what they can offer you and vice versa. The meeting last no more than 90 minutes and are usually held at breakfast time in order not to interfere too much with the working day.
NO SMILING ALLOWED!
Passport Photos may not seem to be a particularly lucrative or attractive area for a professional photographer to be involved in, but this is often not the case. The technical requirements for passport photos are now more demanding than ever before - there are strict guidelines covering facial expressions, size of image, background colour etc. Most people get by with the kiosks you see dotted around the town, but for young children and senior citizens these are not always an option. Youngsters are often unable to sit on their own for a photo (sitting on Mom's lap is NOT allowed!) and the elderly or infirm may not be able to make it to the local kiosk. On a number of occasions recently I have attended peoples homes, taken passport photos and delivered them a day or so later - all within specification, and no need to leave the house! Let me know if this service is of interest.
NEWPORT ROUND TABLE CHARITY BALL
Saturday night took me to the Holiday Inn Telford, where Newport Round Table held a Charity Ball. I was kept busy for most of the evening and met some great people. There was a marvellous atmosphere at the event, everybody clearly having a good time, and importantly for me, buying their photos. Once I've taken and printed photos at these events there's no obligation for the guests to buy them, so quality control, both in photography, printing and mounting is paramount, otherwise I'd be in trouble. Saturday was fine - sold more than I'd anticipated, and I've posted a few examples on my website (click on "Events") for those that didn't have time to buy on the night.
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