The photography business has undergone so many changes over the decades. Digitalization has radically changed the way we take and process images. It has also irrevocably altered the way a professional photo lab works. Indeed, many traditional laboratories have closed due to this digital revolution, making photo-finishing a rather risky career venture. Still, it is possible to attract a faithful clientele with the right approach.
Experienced photographers and lab technicians around the world have identified one of the main problems with workshops today - quality. Over the years, struggling labs have sought to maintain their profits by maximizing production at the lowest possible expense. Of course, the main sacrifice in this endeavour is quality. This means that photographers - both professional and amateur - have moved away from the lab and have started to process their work at home.
It is therefore essential for anyone thinking of entering the finishing business to be aware of quality and what it means to the client. Labs that offer consistent levels of top quality output succeed in the long run, especially with professionals who care about their projects. Excellence, then, can arise from two aspects of the laboratory business - machinery and staffing.
To ensure output of the highest quality, it is essential to invest in the best, and latest, photo processing equipment. Experienced technicians emphasize the importance of staying abreast of trends in development and printing. For instance, digital printers have recently fallen out of favor with most labs. Inkjet printers have taken their place because they are faster.
It is therefore a good idea to keep informed. Consult peers in the photography industry to stay up-to-date on the newest products and machinery. Establish relationships with a variety of manufacturers within their respective sales departments - and look for good deals.
Dedicated and disciplined photo personnel is also vital. People with a keen interest in photography and image development are more likely to work with care, and produce work of a very high standard. Patience is required to train lab staff, and many experts state that a good technician arises out of at least a year's worth of training.
As with any business, a sound marketing strategy is crucial. Look into the location of the business, and try and find ways to bring in the largest possible number of clients to the workshop. For instance, bustling commerce-based centers are more successful than residential ones, as they tent to pull in many commuting crowds. It's also a good idea to establish good relationships with other businesses in the area. This may help promote the lab by distributing leaflets and displaying posters in other stores.
Sell extra products in the workshop. These may include cameras, memory cards, lenses, albums, paper, and printing cartridges. They are a sure way to attract larger numbers of shoppers to the area. A working studio is also a good idea. Offer portraits for people who require them for passport and licenses.
Therefore, with the right approach, it is entirely possible to build a self-sustaining professional photo lab. All it requires is some shrewd financial investments, the right personnel, and a keen awareness of all the fluctuations and developments in the industry. All people working within the photography field agree that nothing compares to a top quality product. This means that with work of the highest standard will always bring in the right clients.
Experienced photographers and lab technicians around the world have identified one of the main problems with workshops today - quality. Over the years, struggling labs have sought to maintain their profits by maximizing production at the lowest possible expense. Of course, the main sacrifice in this endeavour is quality. This means that photographers - both professional and amateur - have moved away from the lab and have started to process their work at home.
It is therefore essential for anyone thinking of entering the finishing business to be aware of quality and what it means to the client. Labs that offer consistent levels of top quality output succeed in the long run, especially with professionals who care about their projects. Excellence, then, can arise from two aspects of the laboratory business - machinery and staffing.
To ensure output of the highest quality, it is essential to invest in the best, and latest, photo processing equipment. Experienced technicians emphasize the importance of staying abreast of trends in development and printing. For instance, digital printers have recently fallen out of favor with most labs. Inkjet printers have taken their place because they are faster.
It is therefore a good idea to keep informed. Consult peers in the photography industry to stay up-to-date on the newest products and machinery. Establish relationships with a variety of manufacturers within their respective sales departments - and look for good deals.
Dedicated and disciplined photo personnel is also vital. People with a keen interest in photography and image development are more likely to work with care, and produce work of a very high standard. Patience is required to train lab staff, and many experts state that a good technician arises out of at least a year's worth of training.
As with any business, a sound marketing strategy is crucial. Look into the location of the business, and try and find ways to bring in the largest possible number of clients to the workshop. For instance, bustling commerce-based centers are more successful than residential ones, as they tent to pull in many commuting crowds. It's also a good idea to establish good relationships with other businesses in the area. This may help promote the lab by distributing leaflets and displaying posters in other stores.
Sell extra products in the workshop. These may include cameras, memory cards, lenses, albums, paper, and printing cartridges. They are a sure way to attract larger numbers of shoppers to the area. A working studio is also a good idea. Offer portraits for people who require them for passport and licenses.
Therefore, with the right approach, it is entirely possible to build a self-sustaining professional photo lab. All it requires is some shrewd financial investments, the right personnel, and a keen awareness of all the fluctuations and developments in the industry. All people working within the photography field agree that nothing compares to a top quality product. This means that with work of the highest standard will always bring in the right clients.
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