Building a Portfolio, Getting work.

[Kawwl]

Hi, new member here.

I am currently an amateur photographer/graphic designer attending Media&Communication classes.
Over the past year i have been trying to build some sort of portfolio of my work (mostly photography).

I would say i mostly do Fashion-style photography, but I'm still undefined.

My Portfolio: Karl Myrvang // People

My question is, how do I get my portfolio out to be recognized by companies?
I'm still learning, but i also want to try to make a little off of the hobby.

How do I approach possible clients with my work?
Also, what kind of pictures should I load my portfolio with?
What style of photography is most appealing?

Thanks !

 

[KmH]

I'm still learning, but i also want to try to make a little off of the hobby.

You and about 10,000 more people every day.

You sit down and write out a business/marketing plan.

Something like 85% of all the photos that sell have people in them, and are bought by the people in the photos. That is what Retail photography is all about.

Fashion makes up a very small % of all the photos sold, and is usually commercial photography.

The Commercial photography business uses a business model that's very different from the Retail photography business model.

The key to getting commercial work is having a network of contacts in the advertising department of companies in your area, or contacts in the advertising agencies companies use.

As far as a commercial portfolio, populate your portfolio with your best images that show what you can do to help a client advertise and promote their business or products.

Visit American Society of Media Photographers and on the left side of their home page click on Business Resources and start reading all that they have there to offer.

Here are some other resources:
2013 Photographer's Market: The Most Trusted Guide to Selling Your Photography

The ASMP Guide to New Markets in Photography

A beginner's guide to selling your photographs online - The Next Web

Selling Photography - Sales Tips from Other Industries | PhotoShelter

Make-Money-Online Series: How to Start Your Online Photography Store: Step-by-Step Guide to Selling Your Photos Online