My hubby teases me and calls me crunchy. I am a breastfeeding, babywearing, attachment parenting mom that believes in saving our environment and animal rights. I love the outdoors, hiking, camping, and especially the beach. I just know so many people who are so much more involved in living healthy, organic eating, and just overall in doing everything green they can, and I feel like I am only halfway there.
But this is about my business. I have been struggling with the question of how as a portrait and wedding photographer I can be green. Does anyone have other suggestions? Please share.
Here are seven ideas I have come up with.
- Digital Forms - Create editable pdf forms as an alternative to paper contracts. Many people will still want a paper version but some will be happy filling out agreements electronically.
- Bridal Packet CD – When I meet with engaged couples I usually bring a folder for them with information on photography package pricing, wedding albums, ect. I plan to start bringing a folder to look over together but give them the option of taking it home in electronic form as a cd.
- Work from home – As much as I can I work from home instead of having a separate office, or going to a coffee shop, even when I really would prefer to get out.
- Drive a more gas efficient car – This is in my plans for the future but it’s just not practical to replace my vehicle at the moment. I currently drive a sedan that gets in the mid-20s mpg. I wonder, is buying a new greener car really greener considering it means buying something new? Any ideas on this?
- Offer digital photography packages – I give clients an option to buy a digital package (instead of prints) and I always do proofing online. If preferred, I offer a watermarked low-resolution cd for proofing, without additional charge, and avoid printing photographs for proofing as much as possible.
- Albums - I just thought of this. Maybe some of the album wholesale companies are green. I am going to research this. Albums are a beautiful and wonderful keepsake from either your baby’s first year series of portraits, or from your wedding. I would be lovely to find an environmentally friendly way to offer these.
- Live Green – Try to live as green of a lifestyle as possible personally and support other local environment friendly businesses.
I feel like there must be more I can do. Any feedback on what I mentioned? Any ideas to take it further?
by Jessica
3 comments