Some people are easy on the eyes; no matter what I do, many potential clients will never see me as compared to some of my competitors. No amount of plastic surgery will make me Brad Pitt or Adam Levine.
In 1993, John Gray wrote the trendy book Men Are from Mars, Women Are from Venus. One great quote from the book is, “Men are motivated when they feel needed, while women are motivated when they feel cherished.” Sometimes, you are not the right person based on your gender. So yes, some people break this rule for anything you can mention. The point is, if someone is looking for a woman because of their comfort level for this particular job and I try to get it, I will have a difficult road ahead to get them to see me as capable of doing the job. I could go on and on, giving many examples of things that are just out of your control. So, what is a better use of our time? What can you do that you can control?
If we listened to our doctors and cared for ourselves, we would all look healthy. We may need to lose some weight or gain a few pounds instead. Everyone can also control their grooming. The hairstyle [if you have hair] can significantly affect your appearance.
How you look
Your wardrobe can speak volumes about you. If you are doing business for yourself, you must know that people are watching you. Business attire is expected in many industries; you must fit into those situations if you manage your appearance.
Just be aware of the unofficial uniform of the industry you are trying to work with regularly.
Photographer Dave Black has a casual, youthful style when working.
Social Media footprint
A couple of my photography friends have done an excellent job maximizing their social media channels. I think of Esther Havens, who has over 50,700 Instagram followers and 4,774 Facebook friends. She has so many followers because Esther has many things going for her. At the core of all those qualities is her excitement. People like to know what she is up to and want to be entertained by Esther. Zack Arias is an Atlanta-based photographer who has over 90,300 Instagram followers.
Zack has another set of qualities that has people following him. One thing that keeps people listening to Zack is he is authentic.
Back in 2009, Zack posted a guest blog on Scott Kelby’s blog, revealing much of why he is such a popular speaker. People can relate to him; he is pretty transparent, as seen in this post.
Zack and Esther compete against many other great photographers in their disciplines. One thing is for sure: many clients will reach more people by hiring Esther or Zack if they tweet about their photoshoot than if they hire another great shooter who doesn’t see the importance of Twitter or Facebook. In addition to social media, you can connect with people through networking events and being part of your community.
Personality
Frankly, one of the biggest turn-offs with some photographers is their attitude; at the same time, it is so attractive to other photographers. They are just excited about life and make everyone enjoy their day by being around them. “Fake it till you make it” is a common catchphrase that suggests that if you do this, you will succeed and, in the process, gain the confidence to do even more. A self-fulfilling prophecy is what you think is what you will become. If you feel you are a failure, then you will become one. If you think you are successful, then you become successful.
Take Control
- Take care of your body and health
- Practice the best grooming and hygiene
- Wardrobe—Be very intentional in the clothes you wear
- Maximize your network—know where your audience lives and works. Use social media or attend networking events.
- Smile—maintain a positive can-do attitude.