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The Art Of Self Promotion for Creative Artists

Self-promotion can be a slippery slope. On the one hand, nobody likes a braggart but, on the other, it is an important part of getting our work seen. As artists and photographers, we need to learn to talk about ourselves and introduce our skills to the people who need them. For starters, we must be passionate about what we do and spend a part of every day promoting those skills and achievements (researching online, making phone calls, sending emails, designing and updating promotional pieces, etc.) The key is knowing how to go about it.

You can start small if you like but remember, the wider net you cast, the more fish you will eventually catch. We all know the importance of having a web presence, especially in this day and age, but we also need to figure out how to direct our target audience to it! Networking plays a big part—talk to others already working in the field, join clubs and professional organizations, attend openings and conferences, and offer to act as an assistant. Anything to get your foot in the door. From there, be relentless. Start a photo blog with daily postings, build an email list, join Instagram, create unique hashtags and understand the importance of Search Engine Optimization (a stunning website isn’t going to do you any good if people can’t find it.) The more irons in the fire the better. Being present and active on social media is a must as well and lets your already satisfied customers sing your praises for you. Facebook is a powerful tool and nothing beats an old-fashioned referral.

However, you need to be cutting edge with your approach, too—meaning, make sure everything you create is mobile friendly and adaptable to our ever-changing technology. Lastly, be unique and have FUN ( everyone likes photo-stickers) and learn to be your own advocate. My comic book career is a perfect example. Years ago, I was hired by DC comics to create a series of photographic covers illustrating the life of Leonardo da Vinci. When it was over, I didn’t want it to end and proposed the idea of creating a series of completely photographic graphic novels. I still work for them periodically to this day. No one is going to be as excited about your work as you are but if you celebrate it, others will follow.