How do you market yourself

[ianbutty]

I've had a few commissions over the years for what I would call "commercial" work, but really not that many. Most have come from people I already knew. I'd like to ask those that do that kind of work, how do you get your commissions. Do you do mail shots to companies? Ring them up? Advertise and wait? What?

Not looking to find out all your trade secrets but a couple of hints and nudges in the right direction would be nice!

[Inchiquin]

Networking, networking, networking.

The only time in my life when I've done that kind of photographic work was when I lived in Germany in the early 80s and exploited my wife's extensive contacts (she worked for the British Council).

With my main hat on (software developer) I've put myself about a bit, going to lots of interminably dull meetings and press days in the hope of getting to talk to the right people and getting my name known. And it's paid off. Spectacularly. And once you start getting work it leads to other work.

Alan

[osdog]

Networking......and word of mouth....

Most of my work comes from someone who knows someone etc...... it's getting a start thats hard..

I worked in the corporate sector for many years, so had contacts already -

As said above - lots of boring meetings.....