COVID-19 has had a stark impact on the camera industry. In the early stages of the pandemic, with some of the major trade events on the calendar cancelled, it was difficult to see where the next great hope for an already struggling market would emerge from. The latest report from the Camera & Imaging Products Association (CIPA) suggests that the industry is beginning a process of recovery, but with the virus still very much present it may be too early to make concrete projections.
And what of the photographers who have supported the industry through its darkest days? In the current time photography is largely considered a luxury by most in society, with tightening belts and budget constraints bringing forth new concerns as to how many clients will be available in the immediate future.
And then of course you must consider the practical ramifications of the virus on the day to day activities of the photographer. The events photographer for example will see the impact of wedding postponements or constraints over attendee numbers. While top level sports photographers can still expect to see employment, little opportunities are available to those who operate at the amateur sports level. Studio photographers, such as those who shoot portraits, may see issues attracting clients due to expense and a desire to stay at home.
When put like this, the outlook seems rather grim. However, the wise photographer will take this opportunity to look at what they really offer a client. There has never been a better time to concentrate focus away from the ‘on the job’ activities, and instead consider investing time and effort into improving their own business. By being smart and planning for a future post COVID-19, the savvy photographer can position themselves at the forefront of this competitive market.
A photographer may see value in pursuing the following activities during this down period in order to ensure they are best placed to move back into the industry operating as efficiently as possible.
Social Media Ads
Social Media advertising provides a surefire way of getting your work noticed. While it is expected that you have social media profiles on platforms such as Facebook and Instagram to showcase work, you may not be using the inbuilt advertising features that allow you to promote yourself for a small fee. You may choose to promote your portfolio on social media, picking the best images that have an instant impact. By simply getting the work you have produced seen by a targeted, engaged audience you will stand a good chance of attracting new clients.
Website SEO
In a this highly competitive space, it is vital that you are in the eyes of potential clients at all times. Similarly to social media, it is likely that you already have a website to showcase work to clients and encourage people to hire you. However, you may be able to increase traffic to the website simply by paying attention to Search Engine Optimisation (SEO). Improving SEO can seem complex, but most web packages provide plugins that can aid the process. By publishing regular engaging, relevant content, analysing keywords, introducing analytics and optimising the UI you could see great improvements in page views which could lead to more hires.
Online Courses
The current situation provides a wonderful opportunity to learn more about the photography craft. There are a multitude of online courses that can teach you about some of the intricacies of the discipline whether this be things like lighting, editing or shooting more effective portraits. By taking the time to improve now, it will surely pay off in the long run when you begin to use the skills gained to attract new clients. A highly recommended starting place for online photography courses is the acclaimed “school of photography” linked below.
https://www.theschoolofphotography.com/online-photography-courses
Portfolio Design
A portfolio provides the ultimate insight into the abilities you have as a photographer, and the artistic approach you have. While it is likely you already have a portfolio, you may also have thousands of photographs that have been festering on SD cards . By taking the time to consider the shots you have, necessary updates can be carried out that you have been neglecting in the past.
In terms of design, you could chose to invest in software packages to help develop this. While it is expected you will have some form of photoshop, Adobe also offer a ‘portfolio’ web builder that can give portfolios an attractive professional finish.
