Approaching a local photography business - how to go about it?

[Anton17]

I live in a relatively small town and much to my surprise there are quite a few independent photography services on hand and a couple of them look quite attractive. At the moment I'm working in a warehouse through a placement agency and for anyone who has ever done that you'd probably agree it isn't a great job. Right now it's the only way I'm bringing the cash in and I've constantly been on the look out for something else to go into but had nothing of interest. :shake:

I wanted to ask on here since there are plenty of professionals who could give me the low down in a down to earth way. I consider myself a keen amateur and although I don't have boundless experience I do like to progress, improve and challenge myself. I am fully aware there are plenty of amateurs, most of them on this very site, that wipe the floor with me but that has been something that has really made photography attractive to me.

I was thinking about contacting one of these local business in the prospect of getting some work in something that I could enjoy and be fully committed to - though I understand this is a massive long shot and would like to know your thoughts on these:

1. How would you contact the business? The large thing I feel is if they are established then they do not need ample requirements (myself) though they may be in a position where another togger would come in handy. Would you take the bull by the horns and mention the prospect of joining their team or is that a bit too presumptuous?
2. If you received this kind of a contact mail in your own photography business, how would you be likely to respond? I understand the job climate as of late, so in turn would that incline you to politely throw it in the bin?
3. Is it poor etiquette? Since I'm not a professional as I am, would it be taken as an insult to have the cheek to contact someone like this and is it likely to be laughed at?
4. Is it a fair idea but I'm just not good enough? I have no experience in portraits and weddings and I understand this is a large chunk of commission work. What I was hoping was that it could be a great way to get into that field, diving in at the deep end, if you will. I may just be living in cloud cookoo land, so the quite obvious thing here is would I simply be wasting your time?

I suppose a severe lack of satisfaction from my current job role may be affecting my rationality. This was a bit of an impulse thought but I'd be looking for anything to improve my current situation and you can't do that much better than photography. I'd also be interested to hear if any of you have had similar letters of interest as of late since the job market dried up and whether anyone is thinking "Not this again...".

Again, I understand if revokes any respect for me from more established members/toggers but was this a passing moment in wonderland or a seriously plausible opportunity?

Thanks to anyone who takes the time to respond in advance.

 

[cowasaki]

There is nothing to lose by sending a letter explaining your position and asking if you could do some work for/with them. Explain that you are a keen amateur and want the experience. You might need to work for free as a way of getting the experience but it can build up from there. You could gain the knowledge of the industry you want and they get a free assistant for a while.

 

[ka$h]

In addition to cowasaki's notes, maybe put together a portfolio of your best work? Inclde some samples maybe?

you say you have little/no experience of weddings/portraits. Get cracking on the portrait side of things and round up family or friends for some practice or even try to get a model to pose for you to help you out?

 

[nomorem6]

There's no harm in asking. It shows a bit of initiative and drive. Something that I look for in anyone I am taking on. We mentor quite a few volunteers (through the Vinvolved scheme and other initiatives) each year, plus other people to train-up. I NEVER look for photography knowledge in potential candidates. I never look at qualifications. (A double-first in photography counts for absolutely nothing). I look for people skills, interest, drive and what it is that is motivating them.

If you approach local photography businesses be clear in your mind what it is you want achieve through any 'relationship', what you can offer and be absolutely honest. You'll be given a lot more respect for it. However, be aware that many companies will see you as 'future competition' and may be a bit jaded with the 'Jessops-shopper' who thinks being a photographer is a nice little job to have 'cos they've had enough of the 9 to 5. (I am not saying you fall into that set) It hard work, high competition and widely under-appreciated - just like any other job.

Good luck.

 

[Headless Lois]

The first photographer we recruited happened to send a cv and a 'begging letter' at the right time, so it's worth a shot

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