Whenever you are out there with your camera you should pay attention to how people perceive you.
If you look professional they will immediately get the idea that you know what you’re doing. This will help you land more jobs and also, help spread the word that you’re the one to turn to when they need a photographer. It’s not all about your outfit, this is more about the unconscious messages you are sending out.
Keep a positive attitude. You may have been expecting appearances to be the first thing on this list. How you look is certainly important and we’ll touch on that in these tips. Your demeanor is even more important, though, because attitude is contagious. You need to prepare for every meeting, shoot, proofing session and phone call with a conscious commitment to being a pleasant person to deal with. Your contacts will follow suit.
Know your equipment like it’s part of you. Whether you’re in the studio or covering an event, struggling with equipment is one of the first things a prospect or client will notice. You should be intimately familiar with the operation of everything from your cameras and lenses to your fax machine. Awkward pauses are not conducive to a pleasant working experience.
Learn this phrase: “Semper Paratus.” In case you’re not up to speed on Latin, that’s the motto of a few organizations, including the US Coast Guard and it means, “Always Prepared.” What it should mean to you as a professional photographer is that potential clients and subjects are everywhere. No matter where you are, maintaining that professional appearance and having your equipment ready is just good business sense.
Look the part.Most clients aren’t going to expect you to wear one until you’re actually shooting in a formal environment. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be well-dressed and well-groomed. Opt for the button up shirt rather than the t-shirt and casual slacks rather than jeans when you meet with clients. When you’re shooting, wear the appropriate attire for the venue.
Read the full article with even more tips over at Photography Talk.
Source: Photography Talk
