How to Market Yourself in a Crazy World Social Media
Social Media is your new best friend!
Navigating social media can be a bit daunting, especially if you’re not super proficient with technology or if your time is limited, but I really believe it’s worth the effort.
There are several different programs and apps to use, but my three favorites are Facebook, Instagram and Periscope.
Periscope is a relatively new app that works hand-in-hand with Twitter, so if you already have a username (I’m @wrzook if you want to come visit!), you’re pretty much ready to go. Periscope allows you to stream videos of any length on any topic while interacting with your audience. If someone follows you, they’ll receive a notification when you’re going on air. Periscope is really new to me and I’m still figuring it out, but I think I’ll be using it a lot for behind-the-scenes videos (editing photos, scouting locations, etc) and maybe eventually some question-and-answer sessions. Watchers can type in questions or comments and even “heart” your video (which is similar to a like on FB or a heart on IG).
Recommendations: Use titles that are interesting and make people want to watch. Include your location or a brief description on what you’re doing. Try to avoid “um” or other distracting words when talking. Think for a minute or two before hitting “start.” And be prepared for the occasional creepy comment — I’ve heard Periscope will be working on those and you do have the option to turn off comments and block users.
Facebook has its advantages, but truthfully, I think it’s going downhill as far as attracting your audience and reaching new clients. I still try to post at least twice a week, but more often than not I’m linking to my website or blog or even Instagram or another social media place.
Recommendations: Keep in mind the time of day (When are people more likely to be browsing ? — probably before work and after supper). Share! Share on your personal page, share with the client in the photo, share with a good friend nearby who doesn’t mind being tagged. The more likes or comments a post gets, the more likely it is to get more viewers.
(I’m here on Facebook!)
Instagram is probably my favorite social media outlet. Especially if you’re a photographer, there’s nothing better than an app that completely revolves around beautiful and interesting images. With the click of a couple of buttons, photos on your camera roll can be shared with dozens, hundreds or thousands of people! I definitely recommend combining your personal and professional accounts if you have two already — Check out someone like Hope Taylor, who has the most gorgeous Instagram feed. Even her personal posts are laid out nicely, have great lighting and fit her brand and style. A photo of the bride and groom you just photographed is just as important as your morning coffee and cuddly cat when it comes to a client understanding who you are.
Recommendations: Use hashtags! (#) If you can, use hashtags relating to venues, colors, the type of shoot, your name and definitely your state/city/region. I use #nepa or #nepaphotographer for almost all of my Instagram posts because I’m in Northeast PA. Also, you can use dropbox or email your edited professional photos and still use them on IG. Just make sure they look nice in the square shape! (I’m here on Instagram)
Have fun with it! I’ve met some great people along the way and I’ve enjoyed some of the things I’ve seen and learned. I’m sure you will, too!
Caitlin says
These are some great tips and advice! Thanks for sharing!
Sixth-Bloom says
Caitlin! Thank you so much for taking the time to comment and let us know we’ve been a help to you over here at Sixth Bloom, that’s what we want to do is help others!! Join us over on our Facebook page to get daily updates! https://www.facebook.com/sixthbloom
Kristen Poynton Chidsey says
I do feel like social media can drive me crazy, so thank you for this! Great tips and I will check out these resources ASAP
Sixth-Bloom says
Kristen Thank you so much for taking the time to comment and let us know we’ve been a help to you over here at Sixth Bloom, that’s what we want to do is help others!! Join us over on our Facebook page to get daily updates! https://www.facebook.com/sixthbloom
aimee fauci says
Social media makes my head spin. It can be my friend at times but other times I feel like my friend went on vaca!
Sixth-Bloom says
I hear ya Aimee!!!! IT’s a love hate relationship hehe
Erin @ The Speckled Palate says
Great tips for social media! I totally want to check out Periscope now — I’ve not done video stuff in the past, but that could be fun. And I totally agree with you on Instagram. It’s my favorite outlet since it’s so pretty!
Sixth-Bloom says
Erin awe yay glad to hear you’ll be checking it out! Another great resource if it’s where your audience is!
Samantha says
Instagram is my favorite too but I keep hearing about periscope! I may have to test the waters!
Sixth-Bloom says
Samantha, I would love to hear your thoughts once you test the waters!
FabEllis says
Great tips! Instagram along with hashtags are my favorite in the social media world. People are visual and I find that people are more engaged on Instagram. One thing I recently did on social media is update my About section and I feel like that has really made a big impact too.
Sixth-Bloom says
FabEllis! I hear ya we live in such a visual world I too love IG! Thanks for joining us today over on Sixth Bloom!
Alex from Sew, Simmer, and Share says
Thanks for sharing these tips! I’ve heard of Periscope but haven’t used it yet, I don’t really know much about video. You have me intrigued though!
Sixth-Bloom says
Alex so glad you’ll look into it…it’s a great tool especially if you’re audience is there!