Contest: Enter to Win Business Cards & Marketing Materials for Photographers
Even in the digital age, some traditional marketing materials are still needed. One such item is business cards. Business cards are often the “piece you leave behind” that represents your company, your work, and your brand. You need to make sure your cards make a statement and allows the recipient a way to connect with you later.
Today’s contest is sponsored by Color Inc Pro Lab, an advertiser on the MCP Blog. They printed my business cards and sent me samples using a few different finishes: gloss, pearl and watercolor. They are all really nice, but for my particular cards, I am in LOVE with the pearl finish. It gives the cards an almost metallic look and they are just beautiful in person.
Do you need new business cards? Color Inc. is giving 4 lucky winners 250 double sided business cards in the finish of their choice.
To enter (you may do entry 1 or 1, 2, and 3 for more chances to win) -winners will be picked at random on Sunday, February 28th.
1. Leave a comment on the blog for this post (not on Facebook) – and answer the following for your 1st entry:
- What information do you feel is important to have on a business card for a photographer?
- Do you think photographers should have photographs on their card? Why do you feel this way?
2. Post one of the following to Twitter and/or Facebook (and come back and comment to let us know you did for your 2nd entry):
- What information should be on a business card? Win 2-sided business cards by commenting here: http://bit.ly/mcpcicontest
- Do you think photographers should have pictures on business cards? Win 2-sided business cards by commenting here: http://bit.ly/mcpcicontest
3. Ask your blog readers what they think business cards should have on them, by doing a quick summary of this post and its questions; then link them here so they can comment. Come back here and leave a comment with a link to your blog post for your third entry.
And for those of you who want to order business cards now, Color Inc is doing a promo for 10% off through Sunday the 28th of February by using the code: biz10.
Next Post: Portrait Photography Trends & Fads: The Good, The Bad, The Ugly
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* What information do you feel is important to have on a business card for a photographer?
That’s a great question. I would say…name (obviously), studio name, phone number and website.
* Do you think photographers should have photographs on their card? Why do you feel this way?
Yes, at least one. Or, at least a visual. I have seen some beautiful business cards that have a professionally created logo and I think that is fine as well. As long as it is part of your branding.
i think the two most important things are a website, because they want to see your work, and an email address, because they will want to get ahold of you as soon as they see how fab your work is! the first thing when buying a product or service i want to see are visuals of whatever i’m buying. i will then contact the business if i am still interested.
i think a small sampling should be on the business cards…if they don’t see something that grabs them immediately and sends them to your website, that business card will stay in the jeans pocket and go through the wash!
Just tweeted!
The part of the country or region you serve or are based out of. For me it’s “Eastern Iowa and Western Illinois” I try to put this on my business cards, especially if you are meeting clients or colleagues from out of your area you want them to identify you, remember you much better than a phone number ever will.
I think photos on a business card can’t hurt, as long as it isn’t distracting. If you’re in a meeting with other businesses, most likely your will stick out because you have a photo on yours.
* What information do you feel is important to have on a business card for a photographer? Biz and Photog name, website, phone, email
* Do you think photographers should have photographs on their card? Why do you feel this way? Yes, you want to show off your stuff and I think they are more apt to keep the card and share it with others.
What information do you feel is important to have on a business card for a photographer?
Obviously your contact information, but I also feel its important to put what kind of photography you do. I get so sick of people asking me about weddings. I don’t do weddings, I have no intention of doing weddings! If I put “children’s photography” or something like that. People get the idea.
* Do you think photographers should have photographs on their card? Why do you feel this way?
That’s really up to the photographer. I personally have photos on mind, but I do kind of like the intrigue for a card without. It may get me to their website faster, but that could also backfire on you.
1. Along with all the usual info, I think a statement of intent is important. Something original to show that you can use your own head and ingenuity.
2. I don’t think it matters whether or not there are photos on the business card. Putting one photo would seem to me that you’re going to ‘specialize’ in that type of photography (babies, flowers…). I could go either way though
The logo, website, email and phone numbers.
It would be nice to have a couple of images on the biz card. It would be like a mini portfolio!
Just tweeted too!
*What inf do you feel is important to have on a biz card for a photog?
I feel the business name, phone number, website and location. If you biz name is not your name I would have your name somewhere, at least I think I would
*Do you think photogs should have photos on their card? Why do you feel this way?
Yes you want people to see your images and fall in love. that is why you want them to call you. if there isn’t at least one image your biz card might be easier to forget.
Of course, contact information is vital. Website, email, etc. Also, what type of sessions you specialize in seems like a necessary piece of information.
Yes, I think photographers should include at least one image. It gives the potential client a (tiny) sample of your work and makes the card more memorable/eye-catching.
Tweeted.
http://twitter.com/GreenShoesPhoto/status/9577723953
Yes, I think it is important for photographers to have at least 1 image on their card that represents their style well. Although…..choosing that ONE photo is really hard!!! I would love to have the pearl cards too, pearl is my favorite finish for most items~
This day and time I think all that is really necessary is name, studio name, phone number and website. Addresses are no longer vital because you can get additional contact information from the website that most folks are going to check out if they are interested in you.
Photographs on the card are great to show style and for a mini portfolio. That’s why double-sided cards are so wonderful. You can have the best of both worlds!
I tweeted too!
http://twitter.com/Suthurnbel
Social comments and analytics for this post…
This post was mentioned on Twitter by nancy_mitchell: RT @mcpactions: Contest: Enter to Win Business Cards & Marketing Materials for Photographers http://goo.gl/fb/IBqF #photog…
1. name, phone number & website
2. yes, but not too many. just to give them a sense of your style so they want to see more!
* What information do you feel is important to have on a business card for a photographer?
I would say that the most important thing to have would be your contact information, especially your wensite so the client can see your work.
* Do you think photographers should have photographs on their card? Why do you feel this way?
I think that a business card could contain a couple photos at max, as long as they are not distracting. Personally though, I would rather see a cute design with the contact info and check out the pictures on the site.
1. All the basic things; but the name should be prominent. Most of my marketing materials have just my business name. It’s nice for folks to see a real person attached, with a real first and last name.
2. Yes! I think it’s a fun way to share an image, and sets the card apart from other business cards the client might have.
I retweeted the contest on my twitter account and on my facebook page.
I’m a fan of simple – business name, name, website, email and phone. My first cards had photos, but unless you are ordering in small quantities and for a specific promo, I prefer cards with no photos. I used a photograph of my daughter for my first cards, ordered a gazillion and felt totally boxed in by the image – especially when I decided to focus on weddings!
Name, phone number and website are all the only things I think are absolutely necessary. Too much more becomes too cluttered.
I do like cards that have photos because it connects you with the person and gives you a sense of their individual style.
Kristin
1. Business Cards need the business name, contact name, email address and website as well as a brief description of services i.e. -portrait photographer, -action photographer, -specializing in black and white photography
2. I like business cards with photos for photographers. It provides a snapshot (so-to-speak) of the quality of your work and your photographic style.
I think it is important for a photographer to have all the information on their card that is necessary for a new client to contact them! Website, phone, email. Also, the area that you serve. For me, it’s north east ohio.
I also think that photographer’s should have photos on their cards! For a potential client to get a good idea of your style, photos are a must!
Pictures are a necessity on a photogs card. I think it’s a good idea to give a few cards to your clients. That way, they can share with friends, and if your work isn’t on your card, they may not be inclined to go to your website to see more . . .
For a business card to be informative it will need your name, your business name, phone number, e-mail, and website address. I do feel like one picture would be great to include. That way the person interested knows right then that they like your work.
I think you should obviously have your name, company name, and a way to get in touch with you. If you have a website then that info should be on there.
I think it should have a picture or pictures if you don’t have a link to a website just so someone could get a taste of your style.
But having no pictures (if you are a photographer) leaves a taste of mystery!!
* What information do you feel is important to have on a business card for a photographer?
Website!!! This is the most important these days!
* Do you think photographers should have photographs on their card? Why do you feel this way?
On flickr I’ve seen a few really amazing bc with photos on them. however, most end up looking a little cheesy. the best ones have been those with just one really amazing photo on one side of the card.
* What information do you feel is important to have on a business card for a photographer?
I think simplifying the info your clients have to wade through is best. I keep it to my name, email, phone and website.
* Do you think photographers should have photographs on their card? Why do you feel this way?
I think it can help and hurt both. I’m on the fence! I think it’s hard for someone to take a card and not see even a small sample of your work, but on the hand, it’s hard for 3 little pictures on a card to properly represent what your work is like.
And I just tweeted here:
http://twitter.com/ashleygillett
* What information do you feel is important to have on a business card for a photographer?
Definitely the website! Potential clients need to be able to access your portfolio and that’s the easiest way for them to see your work.
* Do you think photographers should have photographs on their card? Why do you feel this way?
I do think there should be at least one image that’s representative of your style on the business card. That gives the person a sample of your work instantly.
- Website link and phone number
- Yes, I think the image is something to draw them in!
I’m really excited about pearl business cards!
Just tweeted too!
http://www.twitter.com/julie430
What should be on a business card? Obviously name, all the contact information, and definitely a website!! However, your card should also contain your branding–logo, tagline, look and feel, etc. Whatever it is about your biz that you are trying to communicate. Should you have photos? I don’t think it is necessary and should only be there if it further’s your brand!
1. Name, website, email and phone contacts are a must have.
2. I like the idea of including a picture because that is what you’re advertising, right? However…keep it simple! If they put your card in a stack in their wallet,etc they will easily be able to find yours bc it has a picture…so it should stand out amongst the others.
Name of studio/photographer
website
email
phone
I think it can be helpful to have a taste of what the photographer’s style is on the card by having a picture on it.
My new brand is being launched in april, so this would be PERFECT!!
What information do you feel is important to have on a business card for a photographer? Contact info (FOR SURE) and your brand identity!
Do you think photographers should have photographs on their card? Why do you feel this way? I am a no picture kind of gal. THat is just how I roll, nice, simple and clean-looking.
The basics like name, website, phone #, email.
I like photos on the cards, but they are not necessary, depending on design.
What information do you feel is important to have on a business card for a photographer?
I think the basics work well for photographers. Their contact info and website info. I would also include tips and tricks and also great suggestions for clothing and locations
Do you think photographers should have photographs on their card? Why do you feel this way?
I think it would work well.. Instead of a logo, use one of your favorite photos as your logo.
What information do you feel is important to have on a business card for a photographer? Definitely your name. A phone number, email address, and website address would be helpful too.
Do you think photographers should have photographs on their card? Why do you feel this way?
I don’t neccessarily think a photograph needs to be on the card, but the card should definitely reflect your style whether you use a photograph or a logo.
name, phone number, email, website
definitely a picture on the card, not too much but something to grab their attention and make them go look at the website.
Name, contact info (phone, email or both) where you are located and website…and having what kind of photography you do helps too.
and ABSOLUTELY!!!if it works with the card and what you are going for…its what you are selling afterall!!!
but it needs to be done right so it doesn’t overpower the card I think…and if it does…leave it out…afterall…they can go look at your website 
Just tweeted!
http://twitter.com/SylGalloway
facebooked
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Akron-OH/JaNicki-Photography/219570758600?ref=sgm#/pages/Akron-OH/JaNicki-Photography/219570758600?ref=sgm
What information do you feel is important to have on a business card for a photographer?
at minimum, i think there should be the business name, the contact name, the contact phone number and email and website (if there is one). also helpful is the type of photography and any other pertinent information for the client. i think the simpler the better.
Do you think photographers should have photographs on their card? Why do you feel this way?
yes, because photography is visual. i think that the images say far more than a bunch of text could.
Just posted to FB
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?ref=profile&id=587096647#!/pages/pamphotobellaliantnet/McCready-Photography/143594991889
Have business cards … but would always love more!
I think that business name, phone number, email address, and an overall style of what your business represents is good to have on a biz card.
I think having a photo on your biz card for photographers is a great idea. It makes the card unique!
a quick positioning statement that explains what you offer and how it is different (this is not easy sometimes!)
and some quick contact info (like phone number and blog/website…and yes, i think at least one striking photo is great!
I was just struggling with business cards this weekend. I designed them myself for my first ever “expo”. I was embarrassed. They did not look professional enough for what I want to put forward.
I am still on the fence to whether or not have photos on my business cards. I do think my logo is important. I had friends and family ask, “Why don’t you have your pictures on on cards?”
Since people were asking, it may be important. It is what the customers want that is important, right?
I also made 2-sided postcard-like cards that I handed out. Those looked better than my business cards. I so need someone to design a card for me!
i tweeted about this post – username @designsbyprater
1)Logo, contact info, etc.
2)Yes a picture gives the prospective client a taste of your work. Makes them want to go to your website and see more.
Web addy, tel #, and logo/branding. I learned the hard way not to put email addy since it often changes or address. Photo is good, but not necessary.
•What information do you feel is important to have on a business card for a photographer? Contact info/location/where they can see your work are most important. You want them to know the who/what/where so they aren’t left wondering.
•Do you think photographers should have photographs on their card? Why do you feel this way? I have read a lot of opinions on this but I do feel one strong photo should be on the card. It should be a good representative of you work and give a clear message of what you shoot.
1) Contact info: phone & website. All the extra’s are just too much.
2) Photos… it depends. I have photos on the back of my cards… but I’m contemplating not having them on my next batch. It’ll be interesting to hear other’s thoughts.
I clearly didn’t answer the questions that were asked in my comments above!
I think website, logo, facebook links and phone number are very important. I cannot believe how much my facebook fan page has done for business.
People love photos. When they ask for your card, if they see a photo I am sure it is a nice little reminder as to why they ask for your card in the first place. I am noticing, however, that very high end photogs in my area do not put photos on their cards…
I have been placing my logo on so many things. I am hoping that will be helpful towards my branding being noticed right away.
Just posted on fb!
http://www.facebook.com/notes/mcp-actions/contest-enter-to-win-business-cards-marketing-materials-for-photographers/321405876105#!/shannonjacobsphotography?v=wall&ref=ts
* What information do you feel is important to have on a business card for a photographer?
First and foremost is your website. The second is contact info and that should include your name (if different from your business name) and at least a phone number or an email address.
* Do you think photographers should have photographs on their card? Why do you feel this way?
I think there should be one strong image on the card, preferably on the front. I believe that is the best way to grab a potential client’s attention right away. The photo will give the clients an idea of what type/style of photography you offer but also it’s more memorable rather than just words.
I also retweeted: http://twitter.com/LLTP
•What information do you feel is important to have on a business card for a photographer? Name, contact information, and website information so that the prospective client can see the photogs work.
•Do you think photographers should have photographs on their card? Why do you feel this way? I really don’t have a preference. I’ve seen great cards with and without pictures. I do like to use Senior Rep cards as business cards for my seniors to pass out, and for those I put a few pictures and their name as well as my contact information.
I feel that a photographer’s business card should not only list the company name and contact information, but it should include a consistent color scheme and feel of your blog and website. It should also show a link to your site so prospective clients can have the chance to view your work. As for pictures, I don’t really feel like they have a place on your business card unless it’s a head shot of yourself (even that’s pushing it). Referral cards, marketing brochures, etc should have pictures, but it’s difficult to find a picture that will withstand the length of time between buying your business card and handing out your last one.
Tweeted! @meghancamino
http://www.facebook.com/southerngracephoto
Here is the link to my second entry! Just posted!
Oh this is a great giveaway!!!! I just designed my business cards!!! I think every card should have contact info on them. A phone number is a must, email, and website. I didn’t really think about putting a photograph on my card. I think for an apt. card maybe, but I didn’t put a photo on my card. I thought my contact info and what I photograph was inmportant.
What information do you feel is important to have on a business card for a photographer? I like to keep it simple: business name, website, phone number
Do you think photographers should have photographs on their card? Why do you feel this way? I don’t think it’s a must, but what other industry has such an abundance of compelling art for a business card?
I think he two most important things on a photographers business card would be your website and phone number!
Your website is a must! I know some photographers i follow i don’t know their name but they have an outstanding reputation from the business name.
Photographs of examples of work is important I feel.
Web address and a photo. That with my business name. I want people to come to my site and see what I am all about before they contact me. I hate it when people contact me and they have no concept of my style or personality or pricing. It wastes my time and theirs.
I have to agree that I think website info is a must. It allows clients to view your work. Also contact info like an email and phone number. I do like a picture on your card just for the fact that it grabs attention I think. It allows the client a quick peek into your style.
What information do you feel is important to have on a business card for a photographer?
Aside from the obvious name and number, I think that in today’s web world you should also have your website and email address.
Do you think photographers should have photographs on their card? Why do you feel this way?
I think that photographers should have a picture on their card. It helps the client to remember you. It also shows a little taste of your style.
“What information do you feel is important to have on a business card for a photographer?”
-Personally I believe all basic info should be included. (EX: Name, phone, email, website). I also think a short & sweet & simple catchy tag line…can help connect with the client. If you have a motto.
“Do you think photographers should have photographs on their card? Why do you feel this way?”
-I strongly believe that on the opposite side of the card there should be a photograph of your work with a shadowed or embossed logo. If they customer loses your card (which can easily happen), and is later browsing through photographers online, in a wedding magazine. etc…your photograph & logo will hopefully trigger remembrance and stand out when they come across it somewhere else.
Logo, name, biz name, website and email
I think a photo is good…gives the customer a “feel” for your work at a glance, though I agree that it could “label” you as doing a certain type of work, when there are actually several types.
I think that it is highly important for you to have both your logo and your website on your business card. Everything else is secondary.
All of my previous business cards have not had a picture on them, just my logo on one side and info on the back. The new ones I want to get made will have a picture on the front and logo and info on the back… I figure I might as well promote myself as a wedding photographer as that is what I shoot 90% of the time!
1. I think it is important to have a statement of your uniqueness, for others to grab your trueness, and get to know the true you, before you take their pics. What a great way to see that it is not just a stuffy photographer, that wont take the time. I also think that it is important to have the website, contact information, and your Logo. That is a great eye opener for people to see your dandy work, and appreciate it, so they can know they actually want to go with you the photographer.
2. Just a small picture or two would be great!!! That way they are not just looking at a name, and dont just flip it into their pockets, they can actually see your unique work and hold onto the card.
The most important info is contact info – of course.
Yes- I think that is what is going to make your card stand out and not get thrown in the trash. Who could throw away a sweet pic of a baby!
1. Basic contact information
2. I think at least one photo, but I don’t think the photos should overpower the important information
I was wondering the same thing so it’s really hard for me to answer these questions. But I would definitely say:
1. Name, studio name, phone # and website
2. I think they should have at least maybe 1 photograph on their card.
A phone number and web site address should at least be on the business cards. Also, a small photo would help promote business!
Just sent a tweet
I feel like a true representation of your work is important on a business card.
I think that the most important things to put on your business card would be your website, because that is where your work is showcased and your first impression. Also, your phone number or email address for the client to get in contact with you.
I do have photos on my business cards, because when you showcase your photos for the client to preview, they will be more intrigued to go to your website.
What information do you feel is important to have on a business card for a photographer? website, name, contact info. i like to keep it simple. (k.i.s.s.)
Do you think photographers should have photographs on their card? Why do you feel this way?i dont think its NECESSARY, but i think its a good idea to because its one more way to show off a piece of your work.
I think it’s important to have name,phone number and website on the business card. I like photos on the cards but I’ve seen some without them that are really nice as well! What a fun giveaway this is! I love your blog and I’m so grateful for all the information you share with all of us!
I believe the two most important things to be on a business card for a photographer is Name, Company name, website address and contact information.
Obviously, your contact info. Beyond that, I think having something on there, no matter what it is, that makes you stand out. Something to make someone remember your card.
And yes, I think photographers should have a photo on their cards! Its showing someone your work, and may be the thing that convinces them to use you!
Just posted to my Facebook!
http://www.facebook.com/maranda.lamping?ref=profile
What a cleaver idea! I hope I WIN!!!
I feel like it is important to have a photograph on your business card as a photographer. We photograph people places or things. Also, I find it personalizes the card.
The most important information to be on a business card for a photographer would be Name, Company Name, Website Address and Contact Information.
What a cleaver idea! I hope I WIN!!!
Important information: em, phone #, website
I think one of your exceptional unique image should also be included so people will remember you.
1. I think only basic info should be on a business card, otherwise it gets cluttered and people won’t even read all of it. Business name, location, email, website, maybe phone.
2. Honestly, I’ve seen some with photos that I like, and some without photos that I like. I could go either way.
I’ve shared on FB!
Thanks for the opportunity.
I tweeted! Thanks again for the chance to win!
1- I think you need to have your Biz and Photog name, website, phone, email . . . also I like the idea of including the area you’re from . . .
2-I’m torn about photographs on your cards. In one way i think it’s great to show people what your style is and grab their attention – but if it’s not done right, or if you dont pick the right photo to capture your style, or if you do more than just one specific area of photography (ie-seniors, family, engagement, babies . . . ) it can be limiting too . . . so I dont know!
I feel that the information you need as a photographer on a business card is your name (for a personal connection), phone (more personal contact), email, website and any social networking… the more ways available for them to contact and research you the more likely they will be able to connect with you and your business.
I feel photographers do need a photo on their card because that is your product that is what you are trying to show off and if you don’t have one they may not get that first wow impression. But i do agree that you shouldn’t overload your card with photos in jeopardy of cutting important contact info, keep it simple!
Important info would be: name, website, phone # and also what kind of photography you do.
I do think it’s important for photographers to have photos on the card… I think people expect it. Recently, I made biz cards without photos because I wanted a clean, sophisticated look…. I had SO many people tell me that they wanted to see some photos so I’m back to showing them on my cards.
Yay! I just launched my new business and NEED business cards.
To me, the most important info to have on a photographers business card is:
Name, web address, and phone number (email address could be thrown in there as well but they can contact you via the website so it is not necessary in my eyes).
I prefer having an image on photographer’s business cards. I think the image helps people recall the work that they desire. I feel it’s another connecting point for the potential clients that helps to brand your company.
Just entered on Facebook!
i would say contact information, but also what type of photographer you are, or what your areas are.
as far as photos, it is something i am struggling with, as media changes, as does style….so how versatile is your work to be lasting enough to put on them?
1. important info: name, website, contact #, maybe a brief description of your style if you have room
2. is a photograph important? i don’t know about important but i had one on mine before i ran out of them – i feel like it’s harder for a potential client to throw it away if there is an image on there and one carefully chosen image may be what motivates that client to checkout your recent work on your blog and your portfolio. if they like what they see, maybe they’ll book and personally, i think it is not just about putting your name out there but about putting your work out there as well.
just posted on FB….thanks for the chance to win!