Well, I have a bit of an announcement. My business has a new name and logo!
When you start a business, there are a few things you have to/should do immediately: file to become a business with the state, gain a basic understanding of taxation (or hire an accountant to do it for you), write contracts, build a website, get on social media, etc. However, you can’t do any of these things until your business has a name!
Naming my business was much harder than I thought it would be. I had pages upon pages of scribbled notes and ideas. Zach, I’m sure, was sick of talking about it. But, I finally decided on “Luminant Photography.”
However, two years later, I’ve come to the conclusion that “Luminant” is hard to say and spell, and I’ve learned how powerful it is to use your name in the name of your business. So, it’s time for a change!
It’s important for people to know who’s behind the camera.
In September, I attended Arielle Peters Photography’s workshop in Goshen, Indiana (Photo of the lovely ladies I got to enjoy the experience with above). I’ve been following Arielle for years, and it was a privilege to attend this three-day event (Her workshop is full for 2018, but stay tuned for 2019 dates, photographers!).
The third day of the workshop was all about the business side of photography. There was an entire segment about branding and how it’s important to include your name in the name of your business. At first, I shrugged this tip off. After all, marketing is my background. Then, two things changed my mind:
- Arielle shared that her business grew when she changed the name of her business to include her name.
- I started thinking about all of the photographers, marketers, and other professionals (not actors or other celebrities) I respect and follow. What’s the one thing they all have in common? They’ve named their businesses after themselves!
Who do you follow that you’ve never actually met but feel like you know? For me, this list includes Jenna Kutcher, Amy and Jordan Demos, Katelyn James, and Jasmine Star. Why do I feel like I know these people? Because their marketing strategies are designed to help their followers get to know them. All of these individuals regularly email me (It’s automated; I wish I was BFFs with all of them.), share their lives and show their brands on social media, AND include their names in their businesses.
Don’t get me wrong. There are several photographers, marketers, and other entrepreneurs that I follow who have given their names more business-like names. I admire their work and know they know what they’re doing, but I don’t have the same connection with these businesses because they don’t feel human to me.
Unlike with other professionals, the relationship you have with your photographer is very personal. It’s important to find a photographer with a style you like, but it’s just as important—maybe even more important—to find a photographer you enjoy working with.
Whether I like it or not, I am part of my brand. It’s time to embrace that! By being more transparent, I can help my prospective clients better decide if I’m the right photographer for them.
If you’re ready for a new or updated brand, contact Treefrog Marketing!
Treefrog Marketing is a marketing agency in Lafayette, Indiana that specifically works with small businesses. In addition to being a photographer, I have the privilege of serving as Treefrog’s content director. Treefrog is an amazing place to work, and Kelly Rice, Treefrog’s owner, has high expectations for everything Treefrog produces.
Treefrog’s talented design team created both of my logos. Erin Rhody (Love this girl! If we had a will, all it would say is that Hattie should go to Erin.) created my new brand. I told her that I wanted to keep elements of my old brand but update to a more classic, timeless feel. She did just that!
Every member of Treefrog’s design team understands how design and strategy work together, allowing the team to create artwork that is both beautiful and functional. Whether you’re just getting started and need a new logo or are an established business needing an update, I highly recommend Treefrog Marketing!
I’ve slowly been updating my website and other materials from Luminant Photography to Victoria Rayburn Photography. If you notice inconsistencies, please bear with me and know that even though there has been a name change, nothing else has changed. My goal is still to give you the best photos I can and help you and your loved ones feel comfortable in front of the camera!
Victoria Rayburn Photography is a Lafayette, Indiana family photographer, wedding photographer, and senior photographer who strives to make photo sessions enjoyable memories and help clients feel comfortable in front of the camera.
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