A lot of folks are either having a good laugh or scratching their head over the $500 bridal selfie stick that was shown at a New York fashion show.
The boutique clothing designer said the selfie stick wasn’t just a fashion runway prop but that it’s a real product. She even claimed the product was already out of stock. (Out of stock even before it was in stores?!)
A bride could easily buy a cheaper selfie stick and decorate it themselves but they won’t have a “designer” selfie stick. Of course, no one should have a selfie stick or even a pair of selfie shoes ;-) but that’s another post.
Who would buy a $500 selfie stick? Someone who thinks it’s worth $500.
What can photographers learn from this other than that some people may have more money than brains?
It’s not what people buy but rather why.
Customers will pay more if the product enhances or improves their current situation, makes them look or feel better, or they think it will raise their public profile (e.g. get more public attention). But they won’t pay more just because the product is different.
You may decide the price of your photography but the customer determines its value. If they think your photography is worth more then they will pay more.
Where does this value come from? From the story surrounding your photography.
Where does this story come from? From understanding the customer’s story.
A bride wants to stand out, feel important, have fun ==> produce a fun, trendy, exclusive, fashion accessory like a $500 selfie stick.
A company wants to stand out, be important, send a message ==> produce photography to suit that need.
You have to market your photography around your customer’s needs not around your abilities. Subtle but important difference.
How can you fit into the customer’s story?
