Using Inspiration Shoots as a Marketing Strategy

From the outside, inspiration shoots seem like a lot of fun—they’re a chance to come together with your industry peers, dream big, and put together a beautiful design. In turn, you’ll gain access to professional-quality portfolio images that can be used to promote yourself to prospective clients. However, styled shoots take a lot of hard work and commitment, so be sure that it’s something you are ready for. Below are best practices for getting the most out of the shoots you’re involved in.

Be different

Sticking to your brand is an important component of any inspiration shoot—you are, of course, hoping to attract clients who share your eye for design and are drawn in by the shoot aesthetics. However, you want to avoid sticking to a style that you have created countless times. The best styled shoots are those that push the boundaries and bring something new to the industry, so get ready to step outside of your comfort zone and put together something that is fresh and unique.

photo Erika Layne Photography

Choose the right team

Just as it is with an actual event, the team that collaborates on an inspiration shoot has a major effect on the success of the final product. When the shoot is submitted and ultimately published, your company will be aligned with the rest of the vendors involved. Be sure that it’s a team you’re proud to work with. At the same time, a team of professionals will ensure that the planning process runs smoothly and communication is more fluid.

Coordinate smartly

Communication is key with styled shoots; from the moment you form a team to the final submission, it’s important to be in contact with all of the key players. If you’re the one coordinating it, be sure that you have the contact information for all of the companies involved and commit to reaching out with updates on what needs to be done. If you’re just a team player, provide the main contact with accurate and complete information about your business in a timely manner–don’t be the one who holds everything up!

Submit wisely

Consider the outlet options for your shoot and brainstorm with your team to determine the best fit. It can actually help to have this discussion before fully fleshing out the design, so you can tailor it toward a certain blog’s aesthetic if necessary. Review submission guidelines very carefully and ensure you have everything in order. Most publications will require high resolution photography, a brief write-up that covers the inspiration behind the shoot, and a full vendor list of everyone involved.

Styled shoots are a great way to put your company in front of your target audience, but it’s important to choose only those that can help you achieve your business goals. Despite how fun they are, it can be a strain on your time and money, so choose wisely and market accordingly!

Audrey Isaac is the spokesperson of 100 Candles, a wholesale market for candles and lights. Since 2002, thousands of wedding and event professionals have entrusted 100 Candles with their wholesale candle accounts. For more information, please visit https://www.100candles.com/.