Preparation = Profitability

October 20th, 2009 by Kris

Ok, so I’ve got this client that is a start up business and they came to me with a large three phase project. We negotiated a price and I sent them over the paperwork. Now here’s where it get’s sticky. The owners /operational managers of  business presented themselves with all the product to be photographed and we decided on a look, based on some test shots from the week before. Problem was the investor /new owner was the real decision maker. So, at noon of day one of the shoot we had a conference call to get everyone on the same page. I was not on that call. Guess what, we effectually sat on our hands over the last 24 hour instead of shooting.

I know, woe is me, right? No, no, in this instance it’s probably all for the best. They really need to consider all the moving parts before they go forward with anything. I am simply sharing this story to show how not being prepared is killing the profitability for both of us.

Here is a short check list to consider before your next shoot:

  1. Have a look in mind, go on the net, grab a page or two out of a magazine, you want to walk in with a place to start.
  2. Know what your budget is and don’t be scared of it, if you’ve only have a certain amount of cash earmarked, then let that be known up front.
  3. Be prepared to talk openly about ideas. Know your strengths and know where you might need help.
  4. Be willing to trust those people you hire to do their job.

Now I’m off my soap box. Good luck on the next shoot!!

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