This is why I hire a professional photographer......
I just had to post this. I had a photographer over yesterday to take some updated photos of my products when Jonesy (the dog) decided he had to get in on the action. Without missing a beat Kevin (the photographer) quickly snapped a few photos. I could have attempted to get a photo like this for months and never gotten close. You can see some of my products in the background – this will make a great conversation piece at shows.
Thanks Kevin!
Comments
Yes, keep the photo of your dog, it will draw in dog lovers and others by being a conversation starter, as you said. I would tell would-be customers the story of the photographer and Jonesy, the ham, horning in on the shot...they'll love it!
Your dog is adorable! I don't see a problem with having a photo of your dog that includes your work especially as it sounds like you don't make it a focal point--just something someone will see only as they browse your goods. There are many dog people who would actually pay more attention to what you are selling when they see a photo of a dog--I know I would--so it would probably make me pay more attention if you had it blown up to a poster size! To each his own, I guess. I think being personal is the most important thing you can do when selling anything.
I like the picture and I'm sure your customers do also.
Here's one of my puppy. She loves to get involved when I'm photographing artwork for artists.
Larry Berman
http://BermanGraphics.com
412-401-8100
Ah, the value of experience. If it ain't broke don't fix it. :)
I appreciate your input but I have to disagree. I have a (somewhat) similar photo of another pet that I’ve been bringing to shows for years – the shot was taken with my boxes as well. My 10’ by 10’ booth is filled with my product so an 8 ½” by 11” photo takes up very little room – and actually breaks up the repetition. I could see if someone was selling photography or paintings or something similar – it may be a distraction then.
For my products I’ve found that adding a couple of “personal” touches to my booth display helps develop a rapport with my customers – keeping it from getting too “sterile”.
Hi Robert,
I agree with Jackie that it's a nice shot.
I hate to rain on your parade, but I think the photo is actually a great metaphor for why I would NOT use the shot as a conversation piece at shows. Notice that Jonesy is in focus and your product is not. You want your creative work to be the focus, not the dog.
I've seen it happen a hundred times -- "customers" start talking to you about dogs, take up 30 minutes of your time, and then walk away with nary a look at your work and a cheery "hey, it was great to meet you!" The conversation never gets even close to your work and you're left standing there with a still-empty wallet.
I say leave all pets and photos of pets at home so you'll be able to actually sell something.
Wow! That is a very sharp photo of your dog. That turned out great. I think Kevin does a wonderful job.