Photographic Marketing

I was talking with a car salesman at a networking event.  He asked me what type of work I was looking for and if I photographed for auto (used) dealerships. 

I said, no, honestly sometimes snap shots are the best avenue. It really would be too expensive to hire a professional photographer to create higher quality images.  Inventory changes on a regular basis, the cars usually need to be shot at higher volume rate and anything more then basic photography would really eat into the profits of a dealership.

There are photographers that do specialize in photography for dealerships, real estate and grocery stores.  But, they work on a high volume platform ensuring their customers that they will receive properly exposed and composed images. All that is needed in most cases.

But, I did explain, when it comes to photographing the building, special promotions and the employees it would be a good idea to upgrade.  Especially for the employees. The dealership has to remember the images they place in public view represents the dealership and mug-shots against a wall don’t represent the people nor the dealership very well. 

Sometimes snapshots are ok.  But, the key is to understand when to call in a professional before hurting business opportunities with bad imagery. 

I must concede I’ve seen worse photos on the back of local trucks, but I still wonder what business owners are thinking using a point and shoot snap-shot in their important advertising.

I snapped this photo on my way to a shoot the other day.  I think I’m going to have my camera ready for a few others that have caught my eye.

Photography can be an important part of advertising campaigns.  Unfortunately, many advertisers spend a ton of money on the media and go cheap on the photography. The actual item potential customers will see first.   

I guess my point is that it’s not the media, it’s the message.  What does a poor photograph say about the company?

Rosh