The most common question people ask about Twitter is, “Why?” and it’s a good question. The benefits and reasons for using Twitter aren’t self-evident. However, Twitter can definitely be understood.  Here are a few ideas:

Build Hype:

1. Tweet about cool shoots.  Ex:  “I’m shooting Becky’s bridals and getting some awesome stuff!”
2. Tweet about new blog posts.  Ex: “I just posted a killer engagement session on my blog, take a peek!”
3. Tweet about cool places you’re going.
4. Tweet about new products you’re psyched about carrying.
5. Tweet about interesting jobs you’ve recently booked.
6. Tweet to let clients know you have a fun idea for a shoot.
7. Tweet about awards you’ve won or press coverage you’ve gotten.

Networking:

1. Find and follow vendors you’re interested in working with or that you already work with.
2. Tag vendors in your tweets when you mention them.
3. Tweet a pic showcasing a vendor’s work with a note about how great they are.
4. Reply and comment when other vendors do something interesting.
5. Use Twitter to stay in front of them.

There is no doubt that Twitter is a toy, but it’s a great one.  You can have an excellent time keeping in touch with your friends and connecting with new people.  A word of caution, avoid getting too spammy and know who your audience is.  If your following is made up of mostly friends and other photographers, tweeting about a print sale might not make sense.  If you have split audiences, you might consider getting two twitter accounts.

Twitter can be VERY cumbersome without the proper apps for using it.  Check back for another lesson tomorrow on some recommended apps that will make tweeting fast and easy.  Also coming up–tips and ideas for quickly building a following.