Beer CAN make you smarter!

Last night, I saw a commercial for Samuel Adams celebrating that they hold a mere 0.9% of the brewery market share. The ad clearly stated that they were dedicated to creating an artisan brew for people who love a beer that is truly spectacular, and that they’re not particularly worried about the rest of the market. This message is very different from the beer makers who want the majority of the market but may not be as dedicated to the art of brewing.

This commercial couldn’t have come at a better time. Yesterday I had a client come in for a consultation who decided that they could not afford me for senior portraits. I am very blessed and the vast majority of my clients call because they have been referred by a friend of theirs and call pre-qualified, at least somewhat aware of my pricing and ready to book. The consultation is less of a time for them to decide if I am the photographer for them, but more of a planning session. I do however, have a few inquiries each year that call and still need the consultation to decide if I am the photographer for them and if they can afford my services or not. Even though in my head I know I am not for every client . . . that realistically I don’t even have the time to photograph every clientt, I am still disappointed when someone decides not to book. It is like the nervous, starting-out-photographer I was years ago takes control of my emotions and forgets that I have a target market! 

The message from Sam Adams reminded me that I am an artisan photographer. I have a special niche in my community and my portraits are for people who love artistic imagery and service that is truly spectacular. I do not need the majority of the market to feel good about my business. It’s doing beautifully even with it’s minority share. I’m sending a hug out to any of you who are hanging out in the panicky state-of-mind I was in yesterday afternoon. Just make sure your ideal clients love ya and let go of the rest! So go crack open a cold one (or if you’re like me, really, pour a glass of vino) and have a great night everyone!