What are the essential elements of a successful film photography branding strategy?

Your brand identity is not just about what prospective clients see, it is also about what they feel and how they perceive you. At the core, you are telling a story that makes them want to come back for more.

Be specific to attract your ideal clients. Develop a unique logo, color scheme, and fonts that reflect your style. Highlight your best work with high-quality images and compelling storytelling. Create a website and social media profiles showcasing your work and engaging with your audience. Connect with other photographers, industry professionals, and potential clients in person and online.

SO important. I can't tell you how many businesses don't know the difference between their logo, their brand and their visual identity. Your visual identity is a combination of colors, themes, ideas, message, brand and style. It's the all encompassing holy grail and if you aren't clear on what that visual identity is then no one else will be either.

Before you delve into your portfolio, I recommend considering keeping it simple. People aren't staying on portfolios or website long. Have your best work in a format that shows a transition and flow. For example, have your pictures in a gallery above the testimonials. This flow shows the work quality then transitions to what clients have to say about working with you. The simplicity helps them move through your portfolio seamlessly.

Please do not try to be on every social platform or forum or group and so forth. That is a full time job and you have more important things to do. I recommend first creating a workflow that works for you. This may include taking a few pictures to optimize for social posting, keeping simple SEO optimized copy templates, or graphic templates. Then determine which one or two social platforms you plan to invest in. Try to pick the one or two you want to interact with the most.

You never know who you'll meet. Don't just interact with fellow photographers and industry folks. Yes you want to so you can learn, connect, and get gigs, but more than likely that is not your audience. Get out there and meet your potential clients where they are. Learn what they are looking for. Discover what their photography and content needs are. I've talked to many photographer, and including myself, a lot of consistent work came from meeting random people or being the right space at the right time.

Before you can begin, you really need to have a good understanding of your audience: who are they (corporate markets? B2B clients? agencies? etc.), what do they care about, and what problems are they facing that only you solve for them?

Take a look at your local area and see what the need is. Are people looking for a consistent photography professional? Are they looking for a quick gig for a big project? What type of industries is your city or town known for? Some of these questions and more will help you understand where you can assist.