The initial contact I would have with them would filling out the form to apply to them. I would prefer to have made the initial contact by phone but they don't seem to have a phone number other than bookings for a 'makeover'. . If there was a meeting I would make sure that I take my portfolio with photographs that represent only what they are looking for, a business/contact card for them to have. I would present myself in the best possibly way I could, by dressing my best and making sure I forward myself to them in the best light. I would make sure to explain in detail my photography capabilities, my expertise and what I can and can not offer them. I would leave behind my business/contact card for them ; that way they have my phone number, website and email address. If over the period of a while they haven't had contact with me I would most definitely email, more preferably ring them to ask what the situation was.
The budget need for this is no more than prints for the portfolio, which I should do apart from the interview anyway, same with business cards. Travel would come into the cost for the potential meeting, but that wouldn't matter to me personally.
My logo.
Fake email.
Hello
I am Luke Thorne and have recently applied for your current open slot of freelance photographer. I have been studying photography in form of college for the past two years and looking for some more experience out in the field and found your listing for a slot. I have done photo shoots in the past where I have personally organised and directed, you can find some examples of the final outcomes of them attached to this email. I have a wide interest in what I like to do in photo shoots, ranging from fully designed propped shoot to just head shots. I also find it easy to organise the lighting and backdrops. I would be more than happy to work to the times you listed in your advertisement and look forward to hearing back from you.
Thanks.
Luke
Material I would take to the interview would be my portfolio which is printed images in a book to show them. I feel its much better impression to have on hand printed images as it gives them a better look at the work you do. I would have to make sure that my business card is also handed to them so they can get in touch with me should they needs me to do jobs or help the out. So its essential to take a business card along to the meeting.
My business card
My portfolio
Following up with the person you want a job from is very important for you to pursed them to take you on. For instance, many people would take personalised objects with them to meetings such as giving the employer a free cup or pencil which has your logo or name on it. Just something along those lines which would make the employer remember you that bit more. I have drawn some ideas which would work for someone wanting to take this approach
I think the calendars is a better idea if you established on the internet and people like your work as you can have a number of images to display as opposed to just a logo and or one image.
Personally, Im not sure on the whole hand material out approach. I think it can come off as desperate and I have a feeling that you are risking the employer thinking that too. All the designs of the cups and pens would work in theory. You have your logo which tells the user all the time of your company and alway keeps you in their mind. I cannot really say what the effectiveness of the material would be in securing a job as there are differing views of handing out materials such as these.
