In writing The Little Green Book, I devote an entire chapter to the multiple ways you can utilize your portfolio. In this weeks Profit Tip I thought I would share a few quick tips with you and alert you to a couple of free resources.

As designers, we all understand how important it is to photograph our work. Actually doing it is an entirely different issue. One of the complaints I hear from many designers, especially independent designers, is that it can be extremely difficult to get photos after the project has been built.

One thing you can do is include a clause in your landscape design contract stating that it is your right and intention to photograph the project after installation. If you prefer a more informal approach, as I do, just alert your clients to the importance of photographing your work and prep them for future visits.

I also find it very useful to schedule photo shoots well in advance. As a designer, you know exactly which elements to feature and when they will look their best. Add reminders to your calendar to ensure you remember to photograph specific projects and features at just the right time. I keep this information in my "To Do" list which looks something like this:

Connors:

• Vinca and daffodils on slope in early May


• Clematis and climbing rose on trellis in July


• Fall color combinations in October

Keep in mind, you don't need 30 pictures from each project. Five to ten really good photos is all you need.

Here are some resources for you:

I recently interviewed award-winning garden photographer Clive Nichols and he shared some valuable photography tips for landscape designers. Give it a listen.

A couple of months ago I subscribed to a free "email course" featuring 21 days of professional photography tips and techniques. There are some really simple tips in this course that will improve your photography skills. Here's the link to the free course-

Digital Photo Secrets 21 Day Email Course

If you are a member of LandscapeLeadership.com, check out this recent video I made showing how I manage, edit and share my project photographs.

To your success,
Chris Heiler, Editor
Visit my blog

Share this Article

del.icio.us  Digg  Facebook  StumbleUpon  Twitter