Last week professional photographer Chase Jarvis quoted this on his blog from professional art buyer Leo Burnett:

I don’t mind if photographers want to bling out their promos for extra attention as long as the quality of the work goes along with it. What I don’t dig, is photographers spending what looks like a ton of money on business cards, expensive promos or portfolios meanwhile they really need to spend more time crafting their work.

As many of you know, Chase Jarvis is a major photographer who shoots everything for many big name clients all around the world. He does great work and has name recognition… so he really doesn’t need to market himself in the traditional self.

There is nothing really wrong with what Leo said, but I still have to disagree with him, and here’s why:

Photography is a very very competitive field. Many people do very similar work and all are trying to get the same piece of the pie. So, what sets you apart? Well, good photography or a unique style yes, OR having a good marketing effort.

Yes, having a good marketing effort. If your market yourself right you can find work, no matter your skill level. Work on your craft, but in a business like photography you must also have money rolling in to afford the gear, software updates and even keep the lights on…. and this is where marketing comes in.

If you market yourself right you’ll keep clients coming in so you can improve your craft and ensure your the best you can be.

Every photographer can’t be Chase Jarvis (or another high profile photographer), but if you do it for a living you must still keep food on the table and the rent payed.

UPDATED: Originally I cited the quote from Chase Jarvis when the quote was from Leo Burnett. I’ve updated the post to reflect that, thanks Sara for pointing that out!