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artisans got their work on display. I picked up the phone, made a cold call and asked him how I could go about getting my work on the wall. He told me to bring in my portfolio; he'd take a look and see if they could get me in. I did so, a few days later, and was immediately offered a month to display my work. The only cost I would incur was the cost of the prints and frames for the exhibit, but well worth it since I knew everyone who came in would see my photographs. As an added bonus, I am also able to leave calling cards on the table at all times, and often have to return to leave more.

And sometimes opportunities simply fall into your lap. One of the biggest opportunities I was ever presented with involved a local tanning salon, the owner, a few aspiring models and an assortment of photographers. The owner wanted to create a calendar that would benefit a local charity. He was calling local photographers to see who might want to participate in the project. He would provide the models and the creativity and ideas were up to the photographers. There would be no pay involved but each photographer/studio who participated would have their logo placed on the photo in the calendar, so those who saw the calendar would know who to contact if they wanted that photographer for a session.

Sounded great to me! Of course I signed on right away. I was given the month of February, photographed two models wearing feather wings (one red and one white) on a pink background. The photos turned out wonderful and the owner exclaimed how impressed he was and shared that he believed I had a good eye. He then offered me the opportunity to print a few of the prints from the session and hang them on the wall, one in each of his three salons, with my contact information on them. I had previously shared my desire to have my own place and once he saw my work, and was impressed, he wanted to help me out. It was a great gesture, a great surprise and did wonders to bring more attention to my work. Sure, there was small cost involved to have the prints made and framed, but who could possibly turn down such an offer? Any chance to display work in another business should never be passed up for any reason! A permanent exhibit! Another win-win situation! What was more is the fact that much of my target market go to tanning salons.

What hurts photographers many times, though, is their lack of design sense, ads put together in haste, and campaigns not well thought out. Presentation of work is very important and it is critical professionalism is maintained at all time. Artistic focus, traditional focus, or even shocking focus is fine, it's your style, but always maintain professionalism in the presentation unless your work is to simply show for shock value and you could care less about bringing in money or business.

The bottom line is, be creative, get involved stay active, and don't forget to have a big mouth about what you do.

Learn more about this author, Michelle Westley.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

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