Architecture photography is a specialized and competitive field that requires not only technical skills and creativity, but also business savvy and marketing acumen. In this article, you will learn some tips and strategies to showcase your work, attract clients, and stand out from the crowd.
Architecture photography can cover a wide range of subjects, from historical buildings and monuments, to modern skyscrapers and bridges, to interior design and landscaping. To market yourself effectively, you need to identify your niche and target audience. What kind of architecture are you passionate about? What kind of clients are you looking for? What kind of projects are you interested in? By narrowing down your focus, you can create a portfolio and a brand that reflects your style and vision.
Get down low, use wide angle, fish eye, or till and shift lenses to emphesize the size and power of a building. Don't be scared to use a fisheye lens to bend the straight lines. I have the nick name fisheye Fred.
As an architecture photographer, your portfolio is a powerful marketing tool that showcases your skills, creativity, and personality. To build a portfolio that stands out, you need to consider factors such as quality, variety, and format. Quality is essential; make sure to include your best and most recent work that demonstrates your technical proficiency and artistic flair. Variety is also important; show your versatility and adaptability by including different types of architecture, perspectives, lighting, and compositions. However, ensure coherence and consistency with a clear theme and message. Lastly, consider the format of your portfolio; depending on your niche and audience you may need to present it online, in print, or on social media. Use a professional and user-friendly platform or service to host your portfolio online.
As an architecture photographer, networking and connecting with potential clients, collaborators, and peers is essential for gaining exposure, referrals, and opportunities. Attending events and workshops related to architecture, photography, or design is a great way to meet other professionals and enthusiasts in your field. Joining online communities and forums related to architecture photography can help you share your work, feedback, and insights with other members. Additionally, reaching out to potential clients or collaborators directly can help you identify the people or organizations that match your niche and goals. Personalize your messages to them and explain how you can add value to their projects or needs. Building a reputation as an expert and a leader in your field is also important for networking and connecting.
In my experience, networking and maintaining long term relationships are essential. It’s a little like sourdough “starter”: You use a little of those “starter” relationships to flavor each new contact you make, and the network builds with each new contact but it’s strength is in the network “base.” I had companies that were clients for more than 20 years, but the life of most clients was three years because that’s how long it takes for the art or marketing department to turn over. New people often bring their own suppliers that they prefer to work with, but often art directors who I had relationships with took me with them when they moved to other agencies, because I had become their preferred supplier. It balances out.
If you’re looking to market yourself as an architecture photographer, promoting and advertising your work and services is essential. This will help you gain visibility, attract new clients, and generate income. To do this, create a website or blog for your photography business that includes information about yourself, your services, rates, and testimonials. Additionally, use social media platforms to showcase your work and engage with your audience. Investing in paid advertising or sponsorship opportunities is also a great way to increase reach and exposure. Make sure to track and measure the results of these ads to ensure they’re effective.