Marketing

Personally, I haven't had many paid jobs although I do feel a lot more confident in terms of how much to charge for certain jobs. (Mainly because I read AOP- Beyond the Lens and looking into release forms etc.)
In the Pro Studies lecture about marketing we discussed what 'top' photographers have in common, which are they know how to build relationships with clients, buyers and curators. They also have a combination of crafts and ideas, work that gels and surprises - each week I realize step by step the changes and confidence I have been building. Whilst reading the book 'Start your own business' I came across a section about Photography that was really helpful. (It was also about Wedding Photography which was great for secondary evidence whilst writing my report.)
Wedding Photography tends to be seasonal, its all about handling all kinds of people at a potentially emotional time. Most photographers state 80%-90% of their busiest time is from May - September - with the rest of the year being relatively quiet. Many Wedding photographers will turn to other sources of income, such as portrait work or commercial. (This means pay is more flexible).
We also learnt about making an 'action plan' (Lisa Pritchard) about setting up a 'successful' photography business...

1.Have the best website or online presence possible
2.Make the most of search engine optimisation
3.Prepare the best portfolio you can
4.Do some ‘go sees’
5.Send out some printed mailers
6. Get a small print run of business cards
7. Get listed
8. Send direct mail
9. Blog
10.Twitter and other social media
11.Book a stand at a trade show
12.Exhibit
13.Place an ad
14.Publish a book
15.Enter competitions
16.Get some press attention
17.Network
18.Talk
19.Send a gift
20.Keep shooting!