The Season

At the start to the Christmas season, we are excited, giddy for the things that lead up to Christmas. Our minds are full of happy Christmas music, wrapping beautiful gifts with bright bows, watching the snowflakes fall from the windows of our warm, cozy homes, and sitting, laughing with family while sipping hot chocolate. Eeeeeerrrrkkk.  That's how Christmas starts, but about mid way through the season we find ourselves rushing around town like wild turkey's trying to find last minute gifts for Grandma Mable or lil nephew Jacob all while trying to do the regular day to day living things. This season is especially fun for photographers. If you are a professional or aspiring photographer you know exactly what I am talking about. What I am beginning to understand is that when you have a plan, your business will run so much smoother during these insanely busy days, leaving more time for you to focus on your personal life and your family. So, where do you start? Well, I am about to give you all of the juicy details so that next Christmas you will be like Mary Poppins flying around on your umbrella, feeling like you are on top of the world, all while making your clients beaming with joy because of your outstanding work.

1. Create a deadline for sessions. My last session this season was December 3rd. It is best to choose toward the end of November, assuring you have time to give your session images the adequate time they need in editing, sharing/blogging and print in order to arrive by Christmas. Many clients want me to create Christmas cards for them or order our unique frames as gifts. In order to give them enough time to get their cards and send to their family, the session should be no later than mid November.
-Share your session details by FB, Blogs, or a mass email to your client email list-hopefully, you have this already in a group in your email.

2. Create several Christmas card options for your clients, preferable 5x7 in size, 5x5 cards can require more postage. Start early by creating several different formats of cards. Creating psd templates can be extremely time consuming. By creating layers in photoshop, you can save yourself a lot of time when it comes to creating cards. Also, create layers for colors, giving yourself options when it comes to color choices on your cards. Not good in photoshop? Simply Couture has some great psd templates. http://www.simplycouturedesigns.com/shop/

3. Have packaging for your images ahead of time. This is VERY important. How will you present your clients with their images this Christmas? In professional packaging, that's how. Tissue paper, bows, portfolio holders or Christmas boxes are all great ways to make a lasting impression. I like to go the extra mile and have my logo printed on my packaging. Check with your local packaging store or Rice Studio is a personal favorite of mine. Don't forget about the extra large images some of your customers are going to be wanting.

4. Think about the New Year special you will run. Whether you offer a beginner class for new moms on how to work their fancy camera or run a January family session special, have an idea on marketing at the beginning of the new year. I will be offering a special on our unique frames.

5. Enjoy the holiday with your family!