5 Ways to Make Your Photography Business Cards Stand Out

Every great photographer knows they need a great business card. Read on to learn how to make your photography business cards stand out.

What's small, fits in a wallet, and can make a huge difference to your bottom line?

Business cards! Despite the technological age we're living in, the old-fashioned business card is still relevant. It gives your potential clients something tactile to take away from their meeting with you, and, ideally, something they will refer to later when they are ready to hire a photographer.

Because of this, it's important to invest in a card that will make an impact. Read on for five creative ways to ensure your photography business cards don't get lost in the shuffle.

Get Your Business Cards Printed Professionally

If there is only one piece of advice you choose to follow, it's this: don't try to save a buck by printing your own business cards at home.

Your cards are, in many circumstances, one of your first chances to make a positive impression on potential clients. It's what they will take away with them following a consultation. You want it to reflect your style and branding, and emphasize that you're a professional.

Printing cards at home often means they will be on a lightweight cardstock. They may have edges that are not perfectly clean or straight. The ink quality may be poor.

Pay to have your cards printed by a professional printer with the right equipment to make sure you're presenting your business in the best light possible.

Consider Photography Business Cards an Investment

We know that a photography business isn't cheap to run. Lenses, cameras, computers, and software add up quick. You may be tempted to skimp on the cost of business cards and use those funds elsewhere.

Consider your business cards part of your overall marketing plan. You spend time and money marketing your business, whether that's via advertisements, professional website design, or branding. Your business cards are an extension of that.

Flimsy, poorly printed cards aren't in keeping with the name you are making for your brand. Choose a trusted printer and opt for quality, even if it costs a bit more, to ensure your cards reflect your business in a good light. Like most things in life, you get what you pay for.

After all, these are an investment in your business, and quality cards will pay for themselves by landing you more clients.

Think Outside the Paper Rectangle

Here's a chance for you to show off your creative side and really stand out.

You might assume business cards need to be small, cardstock rectangles. Not so! There are a lot of options on the market today for business owners who want something completely different in a card.

Some cards are cut into unique shapes -- this could be as simple as adding rounded corners or as fancy as having a card in the shape of a camera.

Maybe you'll want a card that's a different size than standard. It could be smaller or larger than standard (although, we caution you to not go too large -- cards that can't fit into a standard wallet might get tossed).

There's also the option to emboss, stamp, or otherwise have texture added to a card.

Consider ditching paper completely and instead, go with wood, plastic, or metal. Metal cards present the perfect opportunity to create a unique card that will get your business noticed. Clients are less likely to toss a metal card, and they will hold up far better than paper when taken in and out of a pocket or wallet.

Metal cards can be stainless, gunmetal, or rose gold colored. There are options for colored enamel, die-cut cutouts, and embossed textures. There's even a card that doubles as a bottle opener -- a great way to give your card a purpose and ensure it's looked at again and again.

Use Your Imagery on Your Cards -- and Mix it Up

When designing your cards, think of it as the perfect way to advertise your photography style. Whether you design the cards yourself or commission a designer, think about using your own photography on the cards.

Don't limit yourself to one image that you really love, either. The most effective way to use this tactic to your advantage would be to order several styles of cards with several of your photos on them.

By doing it this way, you can target specific clients with different cards. Your card with the senior photo on it can go to the family with high school-aged kids, and your card with the stunning bridal portrait can go to the newly engaged couple. The gallery owner gets the card with a breathtaking fine art landscape shot.

It may cost more upfront to order different styles, but it's an effective way to make an impact when you hand out your cards.

Clean Designs Are Best

It may be tempting to load as much info as you can fit onto a business card. After all, you're paying for the real estate, why not use it?

This can backfire, though. A cluttered design can be overwhelming to look at and might diminish the impact of the card. Opt to add only the most important, relevant information.

Include your company name/logo, your name, a phone number, email, and potentially your location if applicable. If you have social media accounts where you post your photos, use just the logo for the specific social media channels instead of the whole URL. That's enough for the tech-savvy customer.

You can tackle the design yourself or hire a designer for this. A good rule of thumb for business card design is that less is more. A clean, uncluttered card is always best.

Learn More About the Importance of Quality Photography Business Cards

Don't underestimate the importance of having unique, high-quality photography business cards. They are a simple tool to make a great impression on clients and land you more business.

Our blog has more great information about business cards, business card options, and the importance of a great design. Read more today and learn how to take your company to the next level with the right business card!