Hopefully, you’ve noticed, or maybe you’re new around here, but back in December, I launched the new look of Laura Ivanova Photography. You can click here to read all about it. Now that the process is nearing completion (really, will it ever be complete?) I just wanted to talk a little bit more about my rebranding. My brand is so much more than a logo. Branding is so big right now, but rightfully so! Branding encompasses my web presence, my studio, my facebook fanpage, my tweets, my clothing, my business cards, the way I communicate, my email signature, my style…pretty much everything about me. This especially rings true in this industry, because photography is so personal, and it doesn’t get much more intimate than being with a couple on their wedding day. I can’t put into words how grateful I am to be welcomed into the lives of my clients; to document such a momentous day.
I’m writing this, because over the years, I’ve realized that working with the right clients is very important. Not because I’m an elitist, but because it’s mutually beneficial for my clients and myself. I want the couples who hire me to look at my work and know without a doubt, that my photographic style is perfectly in line with the images they envision. They should feel like they can trust me to capture their big day. They should feel like I’m a friend; like they can be themselves around me. And, I too want to work with couples I love. I want to shoot weddings that inspire me to give 110% percent each and every time. I know every photographer says this, but I think my clients are pretty damn awesome! It makes sense that every photographer would say this though, because their branding should be attracting the right kind of client. Everything should just click.
Since I already had amazing clients, why rebrand? I feel like the last few months have been a pivotal point in my life and business (perhaps one of many to come, but a pivotal time nonetheless). I feel like I finally know my style; where it is and where I want it to go. For a long time, it was hard for me to describe my style. It was hard for me to grasp where I fit in. When I realized my old brand and my photographic vision didn’t work together, there was a feeling of uneasiness and I knew it would hinder me in driving my business in the direction I wanted to go. So, with all that being said, my rebranding was an investment in my growth. It was a considerable investment; worth every penny. Aurora of Red Organic is the mastermind behind my new look and I couldn’t be happier with her work or the results. It feels so good to have a brand that I love 100%. Nay, 200%. (That’s saying a lot for me, because I am a perfectionist to the core.) Something that represents me and the kind of bride I want to attract. I know a lot of photographers read my blog, so my advice to you is this: do not skimp on your branding! But also, don’t brand before you’re ready. Don’t do it because it’s the cool thing to do. Of course, It would be naive of me to think that this brand will be my brand forever, but a year ago or even 6 months ago, things would’ve looked completely different. I feel like this brand represents my future. And, that is a good thing.
(On a sidenote, I credit a lot of my new outlook on business to the Jose Villa/Gene Higa workshop I attended in Italy in October. Jose and Gene were both so open and giving, but Jose’s credo really rung true to me. Jose is an artist in every sense of the word, an extremely giving and humble person. An absolute inspiration to me and so many others. I was so inspired by Jose that I’m attending his workshop again this year in Mexico. It’s already sold out, but if you ever get a chance, attending one of Jose’s workshop is an experience I would highly, highly recommend.)
Anyway! That was a mouthful! If you have any questions about the rebranding process, please feel free to hop over Formspring and ask away! Or leave me a comment and let me know what you think!
Here’s a glimpse at the amazing new printed collateral that I love so much!
My gorgeous new letterpress business cards. Swoon!
The lovely trifold brochure:
The new disc holders. Plain old jewel cases just won’t do! I love these letterpress holders tied with a pretty pink ribbon!
All the letterpress goodness: my business card, my envelope and disc holder. Have I mentioned I love letterpress?
And YOURS IS GORGEOUS! 
by Laura
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