Getting an Agent - pt 2
Ask the tough questions - Why would an agent want you?
Let me tell you, as agents, we work hard for the money! And it is a risk to take on a new photographer. We look for portfolios that obviously show talent that fits our brand, and marketing profiles. As a small boutique agency every book counts. Agents like to see that you are working, what clients do you have, what magazines have you shot for, how does your personal work compare to your commercial vision. Showing personal work, is always key, it lets us know your passion.
It may sound like a catch 22 but we prefer a working photographer; someone with business savvy, who is obviously professional, and who has integrity. A person who has obviously invested in their business, and who knows the TIME and EFFORT it takes to make something successful.
However, sometimes, we take on the extremely talented with little experience, it really depends on the fit the agency is looking for at the time, and what niche or visual aesthetic is needed to round out the agency.
My Magic Wand
As agents when we take you on board we take a risk too – promotion is not free! We cannot wave magic wands and suddenly make it all happen for you! ( I so wish…. )
We promote you for free, we invest time and effort in your talent, knowing that eventually it will pay off. We don’t want you to disappear because it has happened fast enough, or your expectations are unrealistic.
It doesn’t mean that you will be credible overnight. I know shocking right – even if we have clients – perfect for you, it doesn’t mean they will switch to you just because we say so. NOPE we have to show professionalism, new work, editorial, and chide them into giving you the booking. Trusting their brand to you, the new unknown is scary. And you better believe credibility is the thing! (more on this later)
Keep Marketing For Yourself
Yep, you still have to shake hands, network, blog, tweet, etc, all for yourself. It’s not my career – its yours!
When you get an agent – forget you got one!
I recently invested some time in a new photographer. We agreed he wasn’t the right fit, but his talent inspired free consultation. I was so amazed that he completed every bit of marketing advice I gave him, that he has significantly raised his own profile! Good for him.
MAGIC DOES HAPPEN
Really it does, trust in your work, your talent and your agent, even though its your career, they have experience in marketing and they want to guide you – because lets face it, that’s how we make our magic and our money!
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Reader Comments (1)
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