Pictures without any people in them?
Not the usual subject matter for me. A building, as pretty as it is…..without people in front of it…was a challenge. But a happy one. Versatility is just as important as any lens in your bag, especially when called upon to photograph an iconically beautiful structure in your hometown. The Fountain Inn was originally built in 1740, and has been lovingly restored and maintained throughout its history.
So, while this was a diversion from the usual run of assignments my studio encounters, it was a lovely one, indeed. I’ve partnered with Printique on a number of occasions, creating books stemming from trips or archival themes in my own library of photos. Books of personal memories, if you will. But this was an effort dedicated to creating a book which will become an asset for a wonderful local business. A book. As the title of the blog says, not something to click through on a screen. A leave behind–something you’d encounter, sitting on the coffee table by the breakfast room. Something to flip through and ruminate about.
Lots of photographers have been called upon to create an anthology of photos for clients. A library of imagery to be accessed, mostly for the purposes of digital marketing, websites, and email. But a book project, a tangible calling card, especially in your own town or network, is something to explore. Pre-internet, we all had some kind of leave behind promo piece. Or a physical, printed portfolio. (Remember those?) You actually had to send it to the agency, or even, amazingly, walk in there and present it yourself.
Throughout the annals of photographic promotional devices, we’ve gone through a varying range of nicely designed oversized portfolio cards. But now we live in the age of “go to my website” or my Instagram page – which is fine, and efficient.
But what about a book for the time when that someone, a guest or potential client, is standing around, waiting to speak to the manager, or scout a location, or wanders down on a sleepy Sunday morning in a beautiful B&B and flips through a book to then realize what a great location it “could be” for that thing coming up. I’ll always gravitate to flipping through a book. And a lovely book, filled with details and color that showcases a place in a very thoughtful, interpretative manner can make a small business stand-out. How can you help a business separate themselves?
The Fountain Inn, located in our hometown, became the perfect setting to create such a book.
The wonderful thing about accessing Printique’s prowess at producing on-demand books is the variety of paper and presentation you can access. I tend to like the 10×12.5 format, and for a book like this, which will be handled a lot, the luster paper is a good choice. Great saturation and sheen to the pages, and a measure of durability.
A book is a good idea. Wonderful, permanent vehicle for your pictures, and a client. And our very astute girl cat, Senna, does seem intrigued.
More tk….
Don Risi says
Beautiful work, as always, people or no. Will have to try Printique for my books. Haven’t been happy with the source I was using.
Kordeen Kor says
Joe, couldn’t agree with you more. I just completed the adventure of creating my first book on my passion for birds. I have flipped through the pages numerous times in the last week since I received it, each time it takes me back to the moment I captured the image. Nothing like paging through a book.
Bill says
You never cease to amaze.. All natural light?
Phillip Norgaard says
What a beautiful collection of images. If I owned the inn – I would be over the moon when I saw your work.
Joe McNally says
Def with you on that, Kordeen. And that book you have produced! Just beautiful, and filled with passion. Best, Joe
Joe McNally says
Yep, no flash on this project. Just camera, lens, tripod. All Best, and many thanks for the kind words!
Joe McNally says
Thank you, Phillip! Yes, that’s the reaction you hope for from the client! 🙂
Phil Mello says
Great book Joe.
Joe McNally says
Appreciate you taking a look, Phil!
Marge Partida says
Wow! Wow, this is such an amazing piece of work. There are a lot of great images in this collection.
Brian Wilson says
See? You can do stunning work without 10 speedlights as well!
Kerry says
Buildings are people too….they have personality, character, integrity, beauty and flaws. Each one is an individual, some are massive others are tiny, they can be ornate or austere, some age better than others making each on a unique and interesting subject:) Beautiful work Joe!
SP Photography Studio says
captures and creates unique moments and memories of your’s and your family members which ultimately brings a smile on everyone’s face.
Sabrina A. Williams says
Flipping not clicking books for business photography is an exceptional resource that every aspiring business photographer should have in their collection. This book goes beyond the typical click-and-shoot approach and dives deep into the art and strategy of capturing impactful images that resonate with clients and drive business success. The author’s expertise and passion for the craft shine through, making this book an invaluable guide for anyone looking to excel in the field of business photography. From composition techniques and lighting tips to client communication and branding advice, this book covers it all, providing practical insights and inspiring examples. I highly recommend flipping through the pages of this book and discovering the secrets to taking business photography to the next level..