The digital revolution in photography has catalyzed many changes in the industry. The processing of images will never be the same again, thanks to the sheer proliferation of digital cameras and photo-shopping software on the market. Due to this, getting a professional photo lab set up is a challenge. Still, there are ways in which a more traditional photography processing business can succeed in the current environment. Here are some tips on how to set up a professional photo lab.
Experienced photographers and lab technicians around the world have identified one of the main problems with workshops today - quality. Over the years, struggling labs have sought to maintain their profits by maximizing production at the lowest possible expense. Of course, the main sacrifice in this endeavour is quality. This means that photographers - both professional and amateur - have moved away from the lab and have started to process their work at home.
It is therefore essential for anyone thinking of entering the finishing business to be aware of quality and what it means to the client. Labs that offer consistent levels of top quality output succeed in the long run, especially with professionals who care about their projects. Excellence, then, can arise from two aspects of the laboratory business - machinery and staffing.
It's vital, then, to keep up-to-date on all of the latest developments in image processing technology. All of the most renowned technicians note the importance of knowing what's what in the industry. For example, many top labs no longer use digital printers. Inkjet printers produce pictures of the same quality, in a shorter amount of time.
Technicians need, then, to constantly educate themselves on the newest technological trends. A good way to do this is to foster good relationships with fellow tech workers and photographers. Correspond regularly for updates in the world of image processing, and follow through on promising new ideas. Another way is to make contact with a range of manufacturers and their sales staff. Here, is it possible to get sound technical advice, and even some potential sound deals on machinery.
Experts say that it takes about one year to train a competent technical staff. Look to hire people that have a passion for photography, as well as a sound theoretical and practical base in printing and finishing. This will ensure that the business is conducted by people who are not only efficient, but also conscious of quality.
A good photo finishing business cannot survive without loyal clients. In order to attract this customer base, it is important to have a sound marketing strategy. Successful businesspeople all emphasize the importance of location. Select the location of the lab wisely. For instance, locations in busy commercial areas will attract larger number of customers, who are most likely to be commuters passing by. Also, liaise with other companies in that area and distribute leaflets accordingly.
Offering extra services is also a very good idea. A studio in the workshop will bring in more customers who require portrait services for, say, passports and licenses. Discounted family portraits is also potentially successful endeavor for attracting more shoppers. Also look into selling tripods, cameras, ink, paper, albums and memory cards.
Therefore, a flourishing professional photo lab is possible with right investments and strategies. Capital, patience, passion and awareness are all important qualities to have in the creation of a top product. It will definitely catch the eye of all serious photographers, and potentially develop the customer base needed to maintain business.
Experienced photographers and lab technicians around the world have identified one of the main problems with workshops today - quality. Over the years, struggling labs have sought to maintain their profits by maximizing production at the lowest possible expense. Of course, the main sacrifice in this endeavour is quality. This means that photographers - both professional and amateur - have moved away from the lab and have started to process their work at home.
It is therefore essential for anyone thinking of entering the finishing business to be aware of quality and what it means to the client. Labs that offer consistent levels of top quality output succeed in the long run, especially with professionals who care about their projects. Excellence, then, can arise from two aspects of the laboratory business - machinery and staffing.
It's vital, then, to keep up-to-date on all of the latest developments in image processing technology. All of the most renowned technicians note the importance of knowing what's what in the industry. For example, many top labs no longer use digital printers. Inkjet printers produce pictures of the same quality, in a shorter amount of time.
Technicians need, then, to constantly educate themselves on the newest technological trends. A good way to do this is to foster good relationships with fellow tech workers and photographers. Correspond regularly for updates in the world of image processing, and follow through on promising new ideas. Another way is to make contact with a range of manufacturers and their sales staff. Here, is it possible to get sound technical advice, and even some potential sound deals on machinery.
Experts say that it takes about one year to train a competent technical staff. Look to hire people that have a passion for photography, as well as a sound theoretical and practical base in printing and finishing. This will ensure that the business is conducted by people who are not only efficient, but also conscious of quality.
A good photo finishing business cannot survive without loyal clients. In order to attract this customer base, it is important to have a sound marketing strategy. Successful businesspeople all emphasize the importance of location. Select the location of the lab wisely. For instance, locations in busy commercial areas will attract larger number of customers, who are most likely to be commuters passing by. Also, liaise with other companies in that area and distribute leaflets accordingly.
Offering extra services is also a very good idea. A studio in the workshop will bring in more customers who require portrait services for, say, passports and licenses. Discounted family portraits is also potentially successful endeavor for attracting more shoppers. Also look into selling tripods, cameras, ink, paper, albums and memory cards.
Therefore, a flourishing professional photo lab is possible with right investments and strategies. Capital, patience, passion and awareness are all important qualities to have in the creation of a top product. It will definitely catch the eye of all serious photographers, and potentially develop the customer base needed to maintain business.
About the Author:
You can visit the website www.apsprolab.com for more helpful information about How To Start Up A Professional Photo Lab
No comments:
Post a Comment