At Color Inc, February means "Re-Do Your Studio Month". We have selected 4 photographers to showcase in a total studio make-over. Each photographer will be showcased on a Monday afternoon blog post complete with a description of the products they chose and why (and lots of great images of course).
As photographers, you already know that you sell what you show. So why not show the latest and greatest products? Your clients will be inspired by your giant canvases and stylish books, and be motivated to request these products for themselves. Both Framing and Stand Out Mounts are the perfect way to "up-sell" your clients from your standard prints.We hope this inspires you to freshen up your space and prepare for a great year!
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Week 3: Jen Kroll Photography
Before
The most valuable relationship a photographer can have with any vendor is the one with their print lab. The lab provides you with the tangible proof of your business investment, experience, and skill. After spending years with a big box print lab, making the switch to Color Inc was like feeling the warmth of sunshine after enduring a long, gray, and lifeless winter. This aspect of my business was resuscitated and transformed into a place of joy, strong selling point, and area of profitability. And I was finally not just another number to yet another corporation. When I pick up the phone, I hear a familiar voice on the other end. Every time. Rather than spending ridiculous amounts on advertising that adds to the noise we’ve all grown weary of, Color Inc uses those resources instead to build into their photographers and give back to the community. I’ve been able to serve others in such a way that has only been possible with their support. They get it. People matter. This business is not about us.
Not only do they operate with excellence when dealing with us, a demanding and often procrastinating band of creatives, but they do so by consistently delivering exceptional products. My prints usually ship the same day and are waiting in my mailbox less than 24 hours after I place the order. The OCD side of me loves this! I have to remember to take great care in opening the package as I typically resemble an 8 year old on Christmas morning -- cardboard and packaging tape fly like shrapnel! There is nothing more validating than seeing your work in print. When Color Inc drop ships directly to my clients, I’m able to choose a presentation box that reflects my studio colors and never have to worry about the quality of the product they’ll receive. A stark contrast to years of being on damage control with orders from the big box lab.
Welcoming prospective clients into my studio has never been more exciting or inviting. Displaying canvas wraps, framed loose prints, stand out mounts, and proof books not only showcases my work but also provides my clients ideas on how to display photos in their own home regardless of budget. I deliberately designed my space in neutral tones so that the focus would immediately be drawn to the photos displayed. With only 420 square feet, planning every bit of wall space to showcase the largest amount of work, yet avoiding the feeling of chaos, was the most challenging aspect. In the viewing area everything is very balanced and structured. By contrast, the large wall next to my table is a loose collage of frames which demonstrates how to create a display that can grow over time. Using frames of different colors and styles but keeping the sepia toning consistent serves to unify the grouping. All of these things combined with very deliberate decor elements leaves one with the feeling of comfort and refined elegance. Two descriptive elements I strive to have my work reflect as well.
It is my honor and privilege to partner with Color Inc, an international company with world class products and the luxury of backyard service. I look forward to their continued pursuit of innovative products and services they have in store for us and for our clients!
-Jen Kroll is a photographer in Grand Rapids, MI
visit her website at jenkrollphotography.com
