If You Can Talk

As a freelance photo researcher, you are in a rare occupation. You won’t find a college major field in photo research. And you won’t find a category listing in your local telephone directory.
All of us can use “a little help” now and then. For example, the local historical society, - - do they know that you are a local researcher working with national publications? Or the Chamber of Commerce or the state Bureau of Economic Development?
These organizations can clear the way for administrative chores you might encounter in doing your photo research. Many of them can supply the actual photos if you let them know about you.

Here's a simple way to promote yourself, and it doesn't cost you anything: You probably enjoy talking about what interests you most -- your particular aspects and approaches to research. Put that to effective use in getting yourself exposure and visibility. Become a speaker.
The Internet, and search engines such as Google, have gained the attention of business as well as the public.
How do you get started?
In the local phonebook Yellow Pages that list photographers, you'll find a listing of community service organizations, clubs, and associations (Rotary, Kiwanis, Lions, Elks, etc). Each is always on the look-out for a program speaker. Let the "program chairman" know that you are available. In most cases they'll be happy to book you.
What should you speak about? As a researcher, you have a wealth of fascinating subject material available to you. Your topics will revolve around tales of your successful (and not so successful) research projects, plus aspects that you discern would be of interest and appropriate to your various audiences.
THE "HOW-TO" APPROACH
Basically you can build your "speech" around a How-To subject. Example: "How to research your family history,” or “Researching the early days of our city.” Give your speech title this test: Does my speech apply to my listeners? In other words, "Am I speaking about something that applies directly to them?"

One word of caution. Your listeners want to be entertained -- not educated. They don't want a lecture. If they did, they'd register at the local Adult Education Center. Tailor your speech so that it is "entertaining." You'll get audience response (feedback), and this will aid you in refining your speech. Eventually, program chairpersons will seek you out. And how does all this affect your photo-researching career? You'll discover excellent spin-off from your public appearances. Assignments will come your way. Your name as a researcher will be mentioned. Local businesses will ask you to speak to their key employees. You’ll be asked to serve as a panelist in regional and national confrences.

Another spin-off: If you find that you enjoy speaking, the field is wide open to you. Payment? At first, in the early days, charge nothing, except perhaps a fee to cover your out-of-pocket expenses such as babysitting, gas, parking, etc. You be the judge in making this decision. At this stage, the speaking experience and exposure are more valuable to you. As you progress, start with modest fees. Increase your rate as demand for you increases. As your track record increases, so will your fee. Eventually, you may want to promote your own research seminars and workshops.

For some more tips and ideas for your speeches, check out the Writing Center, at http://www.unc.edu/depts/wcweb/handouts/. There you will find tips on writing speeches, with advice on everything from proofreading to using quotes in your speech. For more information, Walters International Speakers Bureau; PO Box 398, Glendora, CA 91740; Phone: (626) 335-8069; FAX: (626) 335-6127; dottie@walters-intl.com; http://speakandgrowrich.com/.
Another helpful number to call: The Writing Center (919) 962-7710.

Rohn Engh is director of PhotoSource International and publisher of PhotoStockNotes. Pine Lake Farm, 1910 35th Road, Osceola, WI 54020 USA E-mail: info@photosource.com