In this digital age brides go to the internet to find a photographer. Be it through google or asking their 500 friends on Facebook for recommendations. Even if their best friend had a killer photographer they still want to make sure they’ve looked through everyone and that killer photographer is still the best. They spend hours looking at websites trying to pick the best. And it’s safe to assume they find 3-5 that they love their images. What’s next? They email you. And they ask for your prices. It’s the next logical thing to look at and a safe question for them. Now they can compare the photos of photographers, and what they offer and how much it costs.

But what if you stood out before this and through the inquiry process? You can. Here are my 3 steps to rise above the crowd and stand out in their eyes.

1. Share YOU!

What does your About Me section on your website really say about YOU?  Really. As humans there is this natural pull to connect with people. We’re glued to Instagram and Facebook and hashtagging, why? To connect. And you can guarantee when a bride is reading your About Me she’s looking where you two can connect with one another. They don’t give a rip about how long you’ve been taking photos, where you want to photography school, etc. And the VERY VERY VERY few who do will ask you, I promise you.  And saying how much you love love and love photography they’re thinking “well, damn, I sure hope so cause if you’re photographing my wedding you better enjoy it.”  Yet these points have somehow found their way into 80% or more of photographers About Me’s. I challenge you to share things more specific to you, who you are as a person. For example, brand recognition. Before I became very specific on my About Me I had a statement that said “I have no doubt Burton & Roxy make every thing specifically with me in mind.” I’ve had more than a handful of brides say “OH MY GOSH I love Burton gear. I only ride Burton snowboards!” To which I would reply “ME TOO!” Our simple loyalty to a snowboard company made me stand out in a crowd because we connected. Give brides something to connect to!

2. Personalize your emails!

A bride inquires asking if you have a date available and for your pricing. What’s your response? “Hi Bride!! I do have June 21st available. I’ve attached my pricing for you. Please let me know if you have any questions. Thanks, Me.” That’s the basic response given. But, if that bride emailed 2-4 other photographers they probably are responding the same way. Your response is the perfect opportunity to stand out once again! There is nothing wrong with spicing up the emails to show some personality. My brand is built around me, who I am. And I’m a little crazy obnoxious and loud. My responses always start with “CONGRATULATIONS on your engagement” followed by a zillion exclamations points!!!!!!!!!!!!! For some of you that may be ridiculous but for some it might not. Also ask in your contact form for their venue. That way in your reply you can comment on their venue. Show them a wedding you’ve done there. If you’ve never been there, look it up. Writing out the 2 extra sentences to tell them their venue is killer and your favorite part shows them that you care a little more about them than the standard here’s my prices. And you should care about them enough to take the few extra minutes 🙂

3. Follow up!

Planning a wedding is a bit overwhelming. Especially in the beginning, which is most likely when they’re contacting you. A couple days after they inquire take a few minutes to check in on them. They get busy and like getting a message saying you were thinking of them. Sometimes they even have some questions, but are afraid to ask. Just send over a quick email –

Hey Sarah!

Hope you’re having a great week, and that your enjoying planning your wedding. I was just thinking about you and Matt and thought I’d reach out to see how you’re doing. If you have any questions let me know. I’m here for you if you need any help!

Happy Friday!

I have booked so many weddings because I took 4 minutes to let a bride know I was thinking about her. It also opens the door for them to ask any of their lingering questions. Which always turns into great conversation between us.

And there ya have it! 3 ways to stand out to those newly engaged brides. And just the right time to start implementing them as all those gorgeous girls who said YES over the holidays are starting to look for the perfect photographer!

Let’s all start 2014 with a bang! 🙂

 

 

 

Photo by Justine Russo Photography

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