How can you build relationships with local event planners as a corporate event photographer?

1 Create a portfolio

The first step to impress event planners is to have a professional and relevant portfolio that showcases your skills and style. You want to highlight your ability to capture the mood, the details, and the key moments of different types of events, such as conferences, seminars, product launches, awards ceremonies, and so on. You can create a website, a blog, or a social media page to display your work and make it easy for potential clients to find you online.

2 Research your target market

The next step is to identify and research the local event planners who work in your niche or area of interest. You can use online directories, social media groups, or industry associations to find out who they are, what kind of events they organize, and what their clients expect. You can also attend some of their events as a guest or a vendor to observe their style and approach. This will help you tailor your pitch and offer to suit their needs and preferences.

3 Reach out and follow up

The third step is to reach out to the event planners you want to work with and introduce yourself and your services. You can use email, phone, or social media to contact them, but make sure you are polite, professional, and respectful of their time. You can also send them a sample of your work or a link to your portfolio, along with a testimonial or a referral from a previous client. The key is to show them how you can add value to their events and make their job easier. After you contact them, don't forget to follow up and keep in touch until you get a response or an opportunity.

4 Build trust and rapport

The fourth step is to build trust and rapport with the event planners you work with or want to work with. You can do this by being reliable, responsive, and flexible. You can also show interest in their work and their goals, and offer feedback or suggestions when appropriate. You can also send them thank you notes, referrals, or gifts after working with them, or congratulate them on their achievements or milestones. The idea is to make them feel appreciated and valued, and to establish yourself as a trusted partner and a go-to photographer for their events.

5 Ask for referrals and testimonials

The fifth step is to ask for referrals and testimonials from the event planners you work with. This is one of the best ways to get more exposure and credibility in your market, and to attract new clients. You can ask them to recommend you to their colleagues, friends, or clients who need a corporate event photographer, or to write a review or a testimonial for your website or social media page. You can also offer them an incentive or a discount for their next event if they refer you to someone else. Make sure you thank them for their support and follow up with their referrals promptly.

6 Keep learning and improving

The sixth step is to keep learning and improving your skills and services as a corporate event photographer. You can do this by staying updated on the latest trends, techniques, and tools in your field, and by investing in your education and equipment. You can also seek feedback from your clients and peers, and learn from your mistakes and successes. You can also experiment with different styles, formats, and genres of event photography, and showcase your versatility and creativity. By doing this, you will not only enhance your reputation and value, but also keep yourself motivated and inspired.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?