brian_haferkamp

<p>I know you spent some time on your web site (probably money, too) but I would suggest also putting your work on a site like <a href="http://www.imagekind.com/sell/art-photography.aspx">imagekind.com</a>. They reach out to an audience for you. Maybe you would sell more of less, I don't know. But at least it would be a nice site that incorporates some of the suggestions given in this thread. They also would take care of the fulfillment for you.<br>

I would use that type of site for the selling of the images and then use your personal site to get, well, personal. Put some things about yourself on there or how you approach your photography. You can even learn how to use some social networking tools and put them on the site (photo forum, twitter, chat room, etc.). This would help you establish a connection with people and then you could send them over to the site where you sell your prints. <br>

As a matter of reference, <a href="http://jbhaferkamp.imagekind.com">here is my own store</a> on imagekind. You can see it in action before you sign up.<br>

On your web site: The main thing that your site is missing is information about you. That's a big no-no. You need a photo and some information about you and your photography. Where have you been? Where do you shoot and why? Do you have images of you selling image to people? Again, I would use the web space as a way to sell you and your photography while you contract out someone else to help sell your images.<br>

Just a few ideas for you to consider. Hope it helps.</p>

<p>I think a move to Photoshelter is always a good move. Been with them for four years and I love everything they offer. They've got a great setup for stock photography, event photography, editorial -- basically anyone who works directly with clients. And the access to promotional advice and things like virtual photo agencies makes it well worth the money. Plus, they have some very nice premium site templates to use. I think you would be happy with Photoshelter. They're photographers and they understand what you want and need for your business.</p>

<p>@Henry:<br>

I've been with Photoshelter for about four years and I love everything they're doing there. I don't think it gets any better for the photographer that has clients or sells stock. They actually tried at one point to set up their own stock agency of photographers but certain industry factors led them to shut it down. However, the information they got from that experience has led them to create some great products. The prices are good and there are a lot more options for site design now than ever before. They have some really nice templates (i.e., no experience with HTML necessary) for you to use and you can even decide how much each individual image will cost your clients. Hi-Res downloads, integrated store, payments, invoicing -- you name it, they've thought of it. And if you ever want to go off of their site for the design of your site, they will still integrate the archive and store with your site. It's a good deal and a good company.</p>

<p>You have to learn how to use your camera. You must know your tools before you can use them in an effective way. When you can use your camera in manual mode, not automatic, without thinking about what things will do when you change them, then you are ready to start really making consistently good images.<br>

The other thing you should do is read as much as you can and practice what you are reading. Read about everything in photography and scour web sites for more information. There will become a point when you intellectually know everything about taking photographs and then it's just a matter of doing it, but until that time, read, read, read.<br>

And stay positive. There are tons of things to photograph and it's all worthy of pointing your camera at. Have fun.</p>

<p>Big fan of <a href="http://blurb.com">blurb.com</a>. I've created a couple of books with their software a few years ago and they have some nice pricing options, as well. Lots of choices on papers, sizes, and marketing. Check them out.</p>

<p>Like Chris The first things I noticed were the margins. It's something that should be addressed first. Also, there are some issues with the spacing at the bottom of the links at the top of the home page and the sublinks on other pages. Just feels too close to the bottom. Maybe you could add some vspace to the elements.<br>

Other than that, I feel like it's a nice, utilitarian site that displays your photos well. Good job and good luck.</p>