HOW TO BE YOUR OWN BEST REP
October 26, 2012 2:50 pmTomorrow, as part of the PDN PhotoPlus Conference and Expo, I’ll be speaking on Debra Weiss’ panel about how to be your own best rep. I’ll be appearing alongside my first boss right out of photo school, McCann Erickson Art Buyer Andrea Kaye, whom I learned a ton from.
Like many young photographers, for a long time I thought securing a rep was the key to a successful career. What I didn’t realize was that even with representation, every photographer must still take an active part in shaping and maintaining their careers. Plus, with today’s easy access to social media and the abundance of DIY websites, being your own rep is easier than ever. Ten years ago I never could have survived without one; now I don’t think I could survive with one.
For the seminar I was asked to pull together some of my promotional materials, as well as my printed portfolio (see below). I strongly believe that printed mailers are still the best way to attract prospective clients; countless clients have discovered my work this way. While working at McCann I learned that many Art Buyers receive between 25–35 printed promos each day, so it’s best to keep them simple and strong.
Please stop by the panel tomorrow if you have time. It’s from 1:30–3:30 p.m. at the Javits Convention Center:
655 West 34th Street (on 11th Avenue)
New York, NY 10001
Some of the promo cards I've sent over the last two years.
A single image postcard.
A bi-fold card. One image on the front and two inside.
A tri-fold card: more images can be shown this way but it's a bit more expensive for postage and some people don't take the time to open anything.
The outside of my portfolio.
Page 1.
Somewhere in the middle.
The end. I often have leave behind promos in the pocket and it's always a good feeling to get my portfolio back with this pocket empty.
1 Comment
Reed Young.. I have so much to learn from you. Always inspiring to see your promos..