Questions 
Websites
Q: What is the purpose of a photographers website?
A: To allow for their work and name to get out into the world. it shows professionalism for having a website. Many photographers use their websites to sell their work also.
Q: What makes a good photographers website?
A: A simple and easy to follow layout which is very well organised and clean. There is nothing more unattractive than a messy website with images crashing onto of each other. By having an organised website with tabs separating each theme, the client will find it easy to hunt for what they are looking for. 
Q: Find examples of at least 5 photographers websites and discuss what you like about the website. Focus on design, layout and functionality of the website, and not specifically the pictures. 
A: Stew Bryden - his website is clean cut and easy to follow. His front page features all his best or favourite work. It's currently under construction with more work to be added but overall it is aesthetically pleasing. His background is a crisp white which allows each image to stand out. The images have no particular order but they mange to not clash with each other.
Alessio Bolzoni - I stumbled onto this website whilst looking into fashion and I instantly loved the layout of the website. The front page again features big and bold images which is definitely their best work. The images that are featured link together as they all feature a similar neutral colour theme. The front page is actually the only page with a button at the top called 'contacts'. Without the assistance of tabs, the website seems to flow a lot easier without the constant jumping back to the top to navigate different sections. 
Alex Sainsbury - I've heard of Sainsbury's work before but only just found his website. He shoots a lot of deep black and white and has photographed a lot of big names such as Michael Jackson and Lindsay Lohan which he featured on his main page to draw the attention as well as show his success. If I was well known, I'd show off both my best work and well known faces in the main page. The website is clean with a fresh white background. Each image is also labelled with either the models name/event or the year. The website is very simple to use and navigate due to the tabs at the top of the page. They are clear indications which keep people interested. 
Jason Kibbler - this is definitely a well executed website. On first click to his page, the main page features a large amount of his work with each one being labelled. They are very vibrant and bright which contrasts with the white fresh look of the website, drawing the eye. As there are so many images on the main page, it makes the viewer want to keep scrolling. Some of the images are small gifs which is very unique. Kibble kept his website very simple with two tabs - work and contact. This keeps it straight to the point and modern. 
Caitlin Worthington - once clicking on her website we are met with a small illustration of the photographer and her cat - very unique. To enter her website and view her work, the viewer must click on the illustration which brings them into the editorial section. Overall the website is clean and fresh. There are multiple tabs as well as a contact section. All sections with images are laid out horizontally which is the first website I have found to do so. This is a very up-to-date layout and is becoming more popular. It's not my preferred layout but it clearly works for some. Worthington has also included her links to social media which shows it is very relevant. It also makes it easier for her clients. 
Q: What information do you think is relevant to have on your own website?
A: My three main points for a website of my own is to keep the main page as simple as possible, dedicated to your best work. Secondly, have an easy to navigate tab section which is easy to find. Keep your images organised! Lastly, have a clear indication of social media and where you can be contacted. 
-----
Social Media
Q: Make a list of all the social media platforms that you engage with?
A: Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, Instagram and sometimes Tumblr. I'm sure there are others but those are the main ones.
Q: Which are the best for the development of your business network?
A: I would personally say Instagram. I tried Facebook but it's too personal with your name not getting out. By using instagram, my name is in the open with the help of hashtags which attract the correct attention. 
Q: Consider the pros and cons of social media?
A: Pros - can be inspired by other photographers, easy enough to get your name out there without having to pay money to promote and can be a very positive community especially when following fellow colleagues and photographers. Cons - algorithm can change a lot so not all of your images will do as well as the previous, social media can be a very negative and toxic space if target market not considered properly and images can be taken down for a lot of reasons 
Sources:
https://www.stewartbryden.com
http://alessiobolzoni.com
http://alexsainsbury.com
https://jasonkibbler.com
http://www.caitlinworthington.com

Items