Becca over at Offbeat Bride has posted an open letter to you, dear photographer. And it’s kinda critical of your website. She doesn’t like it very much. And considering the discussion that follows, there’s a lot of people who agree with her.
All in all it’s a must read for every photographer with a website.
Here’s point one:
First of all, turn the freaking music off. Seriously. I’m probably looking at your site at work and it’s hard to find the off button and I probably don’t like the music you picked nor do I care since I didn’t come to you for music. Don’t do it — it’s downright annoying!
Go read for yourself. And read the comments, too. Arial has closed comments (after four pages!), so if you really feel like ranting, do so below.
The Pros on the DWF are discussing this one already. Be sure to stop by the Pro Photography Marketing and Sales forum when you get a chance. (remember trials are FREE)
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4 Comments at "Dear Photographer:"
I agree with pretty much everything she states. Music is a pet hate for me, but if you do insist.. make the “mute” or “stop” button blatantly obvious.
Interesting also that she notices the increasing trend of having an extra big header. I too have noticed this… its OK on my 27″ screen.. but most people don’t hav bog screens. In fact, many brides research their wedding photographer at work – where they typically have smaller screens with smaller resolutions.
That’s very interesting! I wonder if the reason there are so many complaints about “not posting pricing” is because weddings are perceived as a one-size-fits all event (i.e. “How much do you charge to shoot a wedding?”), as opposed to something more in line with a service (Maybe more like an interior decorator – before they could quote you for a new house-full of furniture, they need to know a little about you, your tastes and your house etc.)?
I agree with OBB’s comments. Music is sooooooooooo horrific on web sites. And general pricing information needs to be posted. You don’t need to price everything, but you could put something like “packages start at $1999.” As much as we don’t want to undervalue ourselves, the reality is that brides are on a budget sometimes, it doesn’t matter how fabulous you are, if a bride has a strict wedding budget, she may not be able to afford you.
One size, one website doesn’t fit all. Including Becca. Small potatoes.
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