I want to start using a projector instead of traditional proofs for portraits. How do you convince people to order here and now instead of taking proofs home and looking them over for a few weeks?
Is there any special sales techniques? Any resistance from clients?
I use a projector to show wedding couples their photos. The projector cannot show the same colours and details as HD TV or plasma screen or on prints etc. but it is good for my slideshows. What I am saying is you may be dissapointed with the image on screen, especially at large sizes. You need a darkened or at least a dimmed room.The great advantage of course is that you don't have to print out photos to show. Why not get a 24" imac computer and show them on the beautiful hi-res screen? There are other options besides a projector, you need to work out the best compromise. Before you get a projector, make sure you view photos in similar viewing conditions that you have in your studio so you can get a realistic idea of the outcome.
I tried using a projector for proofs. It didn't work. People want to take their time to review proofs and get the opinions of friends and family. I found that people like printed proofs or online proofs. Be sure to tell customers that online proofs may look different than the final prints due to their monitor calibration.
I now use the projector when shooting. I have it attached to my notebook when I shoot tethered so customers can see the photos as we shoot. So far, the reaction has been very positive.
I use projection. I find it very successful. Haven't had any problem. I just explain to people ahead of time that this is the way it works. I high-light the positive reasons it is best for them:
they get to see them up big enough to really define the expressions.
They get to preview how they will be viewed across a room and see what is an adequate size,
etc etc (You know the drill...)
Then if they want to take them home, I explain we do not make paper proofs any more. This is the way it is done.
Haven't had anyone back off, and all, so far, have really enjoyed it and agree it enhances their enjoyment!
And to my advantage, sales are way up when I project!
mkweaver: Do you provide online proofs or does the customer have to make a decision while at your studio? Also, do you use the projector immediately after the shoot, or does the customer come back after the photos are edited to view the proofs on the projector?
For one just don't print proofs. Second is make it policy to never let proofs out especially digital ones.
I let clients know that there is only one sale and so we will finalise any purchasing decisions at that time. They may of course invite family and friends to view the images.
Projecting the images big creates the desire for big images. Throw in questions like where they would hang a wall portrait. Once they start to see it all they start to justify spending more.
