I’m a big fan of playing offense versus defense and right now, even if you haven’t done anything yet, you’ve still got time for some great offensive marketing plays, especially if your skill set is in portraiture.

1) Mother’s Day:  There isn’t a mother on the planet that doesn’t want new portraits of her family.  Even more important there isn’t a grandmother who doesn’t complain about not having up to date images of her grandchildren!   So, when was the last time you did a Mother’s Day promotion?  When was the last time you planted a seed to get people thinking about how outdated their family portraits are?

2) Father’s Day:  Dad’s got the same needs and complaints.  That photograph of his family is so old the one that came with his wallet is better looking!  He needs a new portrait of his wife and kids, but unless you plant the idea, Mom isn’t going to think of it herself.  It’s the perfect Father’s Day gift and nothing could be more unique.

3) It’s Prom Time:  I’m always amazed how few photographers go after this segment of the business.  I know it’s not big bucks, but it isn’t always about the direct revenue – some times you have to focus on the publicity you can create to build brand awareness.  Here’s where it would be great to team up with a couple of partners like the local limo company and a florist.  Put together a Prom-Pack with the limo, corsage and two 5×7’s.  The three companies can share the cost of the mailing as well as the revenue.

4) Graduation:  It’s family time again and while many schools already have a photographer doing the traditional cap and gown diploma grab shot, I’m suggesting something more.   Grandparents sit through every event they can, especially graduation.  Here’s an opportunity to promote the idea of a Cap ‘n Gown Family Portrait at a time when everyone is celebrating.

Creating awareness for concepts like these, especially if you’ve never done them before takes time.  You might not hit one out of the park your first time at bat, but remember to get a few shots of you working with clients for your own press releases.  Build your stash of images of you being involved in projects like these so you can create awareness in the community with more press releases in the future.

It’s too late to catch the Easter Bunny, now only a week away, but that shouldn’t stop you from going after these other important events.  And don’t forget to look for partners!  This is consumer bundling at its best and you’ve got limo companies, florists, venues and even other photographers to help you absorb the costs and create the excitement!

And in the words of Robin Williams:

Spring is nature’s way of saying, “Let’s party!”

Well, it’s Spring, and the opportunity to throw your own marketing party is right on your doorstep.   (Okay, so it’s a stretch for a great closer to this morning’s blog, but you get the idea!)