The problem with being a photographer is that I rarely get any normal pictures of me. Most of them are overly dramatic or completely ridiculous:
But I really can't complain. Being a photographer is a lot of fun when you have good clients. That's actually why I sent this to you. I worked with a BID in Washington DC for a few years, and it became one of my best partnerships. Let me back up and explain...
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Ten years ago I started my own production company fresh out of high school. Back then I was primarily doing wedding videos but soon found much more fulfillment and opportunities with photography.
I shot nearly everything that came my way —weddings, portraits, conferences, architecture, corporate events, headshots, sports, food, products, and even a catheter but I don’t like to talk about that one…
Weddings
Places
Cinema
Editorial
Posters
Campaigns
Portraits
Food
Fine Art
Fashion
This continued for several years, and my business continued to grow through word of mouth alone. In 2009 I met the folks behind the Crystal City BID and quickly became their preferred photographer. Their goals as an organization proved to be a perfect complement to my experience as a photographer. Whether they were hosting an event, breaking ground on a new development, creating an advertising campaign, or showcasing a local business I was able to rely on my past experience to deliver what they needed.
Over the years we developed a simple yet effective system to make life easier for all of us. Here are some of the best practices we discovered along the way:
- I would select and deliver a few of the best photos immediately after each shoot. This was especially helpful for anything that might pick up some press. It also relieved the burden [for me] of having to stay up editing all night long.
- All of the photos were stored in a single online gallery where they could be viewed and downloaded at any time. This meant no more shuffling through folders and discs to find the images they needed.
- Recurring events would get a fancy landing page. This proved to be helpful in keeping related events and audiences together while making it easy for visitors to find the photos.
- For events with lots of press we would update social media platforms in real-time with my professional photos. It's a great way to stand out in a sea of iPhone pics.
- I had custom made business cards with the BID branding to hand out to guests who were wondering "Where are we going to see these photos?"
So there you go. Even if you're not interested in working with me at least you've got some ideas to take to the bank.
"In 2009 Stephen Elliot shot photos for the Crystal City Business Improvement District and quickly became our favorite photographer. He is the first one we call, and he repeatedly delivers excellent work. He's shot over 40 assignments for us, and we are thrilled with the results. Not only are his photos terrific, but his attitude is always positive and optimistic. He looks for creative solutions rather than pointing out useless criticisms. We couldn't be happier to have him work with us, and I'm sure you will feel the same. Whether you are considering him as a collaborator or a neighbor I'm sure you'll be glad to get to know him."
-Angela Fox
President/CEO
Crystal City Business Improvement District
Hear what others have said about my work.
The whole point in my telling you all of this is simply because I want to work with more BID's. Not only do I enjoy the work, but it seems I’ve made a positive impression on my clients as well. I encourage you to let me know next time you're looking for a photographer so you can see the difference for yourself.
But enough about me. I want to hear from you! What’s your BID all about? What events are coming up next? How can I help?
I’d love to meet you for coffee and hear more about you. Hopefully our stories can share a few pages together.
-Stephen Elliot
703.303.3131
[email protected]