The Cake and Cupcake Business Series

Tuesday, November 18, 2008

Hello zam

Thank you for subscribing to my Cake and Cupcake Business series.
In this series I will share some of the things I'm thinking
about in regards to starting a cake business. I've worked with many
cake and cupcake bakers just like you, starting and expanding
businesses.


One of the big changes I've seen take place over the last few years
is the growth of social networks and community websites for sharing
information and ideas about the sugar arts. I'm so happy these
communities are growing and making us all better at what we do.

Do you have a website? I will be writing more about how to set one up
inexpensively as I think this is a key to marketing your business
successfully.

Today however, I wanted to share with you the issue of photography --
documenting your work.

The internet has become the primary way brides (and consumers in
general) are reviewing vendors. Big, clear photos - including
multiple views- are probably the most important element in
determining whether a potential customer goes to the next step with
you, whether that is a call, a consultation or a purchase. Even if
you're not in business yet or if you don't have a website,
documenting your work with photographs is a skill you should always
strive to improve.

When photographing your cakes or cupcakes, shoot a tight closeup at
an angle that emphasizes the top, but includes the side of the cake
as well. Then shoot second and third shots, slightly varying the
distance between the cake surface and the camera with each shot.


Your photos have to take the place of your customer seeing the cake
in person, so make sure they can see it well enough on their computer
screen.

Try to frame the shot so nothing else is visible in the frame. If
you're shooting at home, look for neutral backgrounds. Avoid
situations where there is something in the background such as a
child's toy, a dishwasher, dirty pans, etc.

The best way to improve your photography skills is to look at the
photographs of others. I'm often reviewing the cake images at
flickr.com to see the total range of photographic skill.

You do not have to be an accomplished photographer to produce photos
for your portfolio. The important thing is that your clients will be
able to see a clear representation of your work. If your business
does not have a web presence yet, or if you're still thinking about
starting a business, photographic documentation is easy enough to
maintain digitally until you're ready. You'll be so glad you have
this when you ARE ready to go online.

Take a look at photos you've recently taken of your cakes. How do
they look? Do they show the necessary detail? Are they clear? Are
there any distractions in the frame?

The more photos you have of a cake, and the better they look,
the more likely you will have a new client when she looks at your
portfolio.


To your success,

Paula

128 Parkwood Lane, Decatur, GA 30030, USA

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