Advertising - Where to start?

[murdog]

So I've just made the big step of organizing my business model and putting myself out there for part-time work. I have a clean website (granted I need to get a lot more photos on there) and pretty good availability, now I'm stuck with how to get myself promoted.

I'm on a real tight budget (more like no budget) so I started with Craigslist and a couple other free online classified boards. My next thought was finding bulleting boards around town to stick some fliers on. Unfortunately I don't have a great word-of-mouth network to utilize.

Any ideas from someone who's been there of what I need to do next?

[dcnctx]

Pocket full of business cards is a good start.

(Here I am; here's my card... How can I help?)

[toverman]

You might look for an organization or charity in your area that will hold a fundraiser this year that includes a silent auction where you can offer your services to a high bidder. The money goes to the charity, you boost your portfolio and get your name before people who support charities (and often have disposable income). However, you'd most likely need to offer them some high-quality prints as part of your item, which will end up costing you money. It might even out with the "free" exposure you'd get at the event, and afterward if your pics are good.

If there are small newspapers in your area, ad rates are cheaper and (in my experience) they can be used to target a specific audience because by nature their circulation areas are smaller and more targeted.

Even before that, though, make sure you are ready for prime time with equipment, contract forms ready to go, tax forms filed, biz cards and a good place to have prints made (and the many other details that go into any biz).

Good luck!

[HDKat]

Most communities have websites. Do a google and search yours and surrounding communities. You can post your services and then you website. Free Free Free!

[Outlaw]

Congrats on hanging your shingle, Murray!

Marketing is my favorite part of running a photography business, just behind the art itself.

Your most effective combo will always be your business card + your web site. This is your cheap, easy, fast ticket to professional appearance and respect.

Beyond that, a plethora of marketing opportunities exist. I would suggest picking up a good beginner's marketing book, such as Duct Tape Marketing by John Jantsch, and/or check out his web site at http://www.ducttapemarketing.com/. All sound, solid advice for any small business, especially within the blog (http://www.ducttapemarketing.com/blog/). Follow good foundational and advanced advice like you will read there and you will rise head and shoulders above the majority of your competition.

[murdog]

Great, thanks for the reference. I'll be sure to check it out.