"How to Create a Simple and Effective Model Rep Program for Success"
A Model Rep Program in high school senior photography is a marketing strategy employed by photographers to gain new clients and build connections with the high school senior demographic. Also known as Senior Model Rep Programs, Senior Rep Programs or Senior Ambassador Programs, these initiatives involve selecting a group of high school seniors to represent the photographer's brand.
Here's an overview of how a Model Rep Program typically works:
1. Selection of Senior Models:
• Photographers invite high school juniors or seniors to apply for the program. The marketing for this is usually done in January and is targeted toward high school juniors. Over the past few years, we have seen photographers even start as early as the October prior to January.
• As a photographer, one important thing to remember is that you don't want to miss the 8-ball when it comes to rolling out a program. The longer you wait, the better your chance of losing potential clients to other photographers who are on their game.
2. Benefits for Senior Models:
• Chosen seniors receive perks, benefits, and exclusive products.
• They may also receive digital images for sharing on their social media platforms.
3. Exclusive Events and Shoots:
• A Model Rep Program can be as simple or as complex as you want it to be. I like simplicity and in my Model Rep Program class for photographers, I teach exactly how to put a program together and what to offer to that it is not only simple for you, but it is also profitable for you as well.
• Senior models may participate in exclusive group photoshoots or events organized by the photographer.
• These events not only create fun and a sense of community among the models but also provide additional opportunities for the photographer to showcase their skills and use their creativity to try new things.
4. Word -of -Mouth Referrals:
• Positive word-of-mouth referrals help build trust and credibility for the photographer within the community. A well-executed Model Rep Program not only helps photographers expand their reach within the high school senior demographic but also creates a sense of excitement around their brand.
While a Model Rep Program can be highly lucrative and beneficial for both the photographer and the participating seniors, it does require industry-specific knowledge in order to be successful. A good mentor can offer the knowledge and expertise to help you create a program that meets the needs of both you and of your target client.
If you are a photographer who is looking to enhance your marketing efforts, especially in engaging with high school seniors, be sure to check out our model rep class where we teach you about the intricacies and ease of running an effective model rep program.
Beverly Williams
Senior Year Magazine
Ask to join our private FB group for photographers of Teens and High School Seniors. Link to join is on our website. Also check out our business classes for photographers.
