The Professional Photographer & The Psychology Of Sales: Michael E. Stern
Summary: "The Professional Photographer & The Psychology Of Sales: Michael E. Stern"
Do you struggle with the sales aspects of your photography business? Do you wish you understood a little more about the hidden psychology of the sales process? Listen to this great interview with photographer and radio show host Michael E. Stern to find out more.
Today I had the great pleasure of talking at length with Michael E. Stern about the psychology of sales, and how photographers are thinking and behaving in and around the sales process.
The subject of sales is guaranteed to send shivers of fear down the spine for many photographers! After all, it can be very intimidating for a lot of people, and a source of personal pressure.
However, it need not be that way, as we learn from my chat with Michael on some of the ways we can approach the idea of sales for our business.
It All Comes Down To Confidence And Belief In Yourself
Being good in sales really does come down to your own confidence and belief in yourself and what it is that you’re trying to sell.
This faith and surety originates in your own mindset, your approach to business, and how you relate to people.
Sales skills are not hard to develop, and it’s a lot more fun and rewarding than you might think.
I used to dislike sales immensely but have come to love it as my perception of what sales really means has changed.
Michael shared some really great insights as a result of his extensive experience in this area!
Members can listen to the full interview at the link below:
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About Michael:
Michael Stern first picked up a camera at age 12 and has yet to put one down. He self-taught by way of a homemade darkroom and continued his photography education in Jr. and Sr. high schools, Cal State Northridge and Art Center College of Design. He earned a BFA in 1979.
During his career, Michael has owned and operated small, medium and large commercial studios in Hollywood, North Hollywood and Burbank. He began his career shooting movie posters for agencies and multimedia productions for Star-Kist Foods. After relocating to Burbank, he began producing photographs for local and international companies specializing in van conversions, building design and construction.
Michael started working with The Walt Disney Company in 1982 and has been working with them ever since. He has also worked with Warner Brothers, Universal, Paramount Studios and Sid & Marty Krofft Pictures. He photographs executives, celebrities, products and architecture. His reputation is one of quality, creativity and making the deadlines.
In 1995 he added digital imaging services and in 2000 he scanned, restored and printed 140 aviation-themed historical photographs for Disney’s California Adventure. As a digital restoration expert Michael continues to work on other projects for educational institutions, companies and private parties.
He is expert in scanning, retouching and printing and has taught at many educational institutions, teaching photographic theory, Photoshop, pre-press, artist business practices and operating a sole proprietorship. His first book: Build A Better Photograph, A Disciplined Approach To Creativity, is an informative look at his approach to maintaining a professional photography presence beyond f/stops and shutter speeds. His radio show: “Build A Better Photograph” is aimed at advanced amateurs, college students and early career professionals. Podcasts are available from iTunes free of charge.
His radio show broadcasts live Fridays at 9am, PST. Click the link below to be entertained and informed!
Michael’s webhub is buildabetterphotograph.com, where you can find out more about this dynamic individual.
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I pulled some great quotes and great thoughts from this interview. Thank you for the post. I especially liked when he talked about visiting the clients and picking up on clues that they give you. How they talk, how they dress. Great.
Thank you so much Nigel and Michael. I learn´t a lot, as usual.
Keep up the good work.
Anu