Registering as a Wedding Photographer?

A few years ago I assisted a Photographer in a wedding and there was a book he showed me of Registered

Photographers in the area. I'm not sure how he got his name in this book, but there he was, thumbnail picture, caption

and all. Is anybody familiar with this "Wedding Photographers Registry" book, or what the cost might be ?

Sounds like a great way to make money. Just call all of the local businesses and offer to put their name in a book for a small fee.

 

You could also do that with a web site. If you give me $300, I will put your thumbnail and contact info on my website of registered photographers.

 

It may be a good idea for photographers if most prospective clients actually used the book, but I doubt that is the case.

There are wedding "books" that do this every year. Usually they are more like a small magazine than a book, but it's a common thing.

 

It's just another way to advertise. Nothing more nothing less.

"Registered" or "Certified" photographers? There is quite a difference. What part of the country was this?

 

Ed

I get solicitations like that all the time. Just a way for a company to make money.

Some venues (spas, hotels, etc.) will only recommend you if you are listed with a 'preferred' registering publication. No vetting whatsoever. My suspicion is a little kickback - or "referral fee" is occurring in these situations - unconfirmed though but just makes sense since there isn't any monitoring of quality and the only barrier to entry is a $500 fee. I've seen several such books/ publications and they are thick. Although I'd like to work with some of the venues, there are certainly some vendors I do not want my name remotely associated with. Take some wedding planners out to lunch and offer them some really nice photography for promotional use - $500 much better spent.