Way, WAY, back in the day, I named my business “Life As I Know It Photography.” I’m not sure who loved it more, me or Steven, haha. But after the first year or so I relaunched my business as “Linda Barry Photography” with the tagline of “Life as I know it.” Not too long after that I dropped the tagline and just stayed with Linda Barry Photography. So, today I wanted to share with you some of my thoughts on how to choose your business name.
I think a pretty common trend with new photographers who are starting their business is that they choose a “cutesy” name. Now, I say that with the most love and respect because I know that so many of those names have real significant meaning behind them, and that’s 100% valid! I did the same thing!
As time went on, I realized a few things: it’s hard to remember those kinds of names; a significant number of big brands are names; and all of the professional photographers I was following and learning from all used their names as their business names.
It was almost as if going from “Life As I Know It Photography,” to “Linda Barry Photography” was this rite of passage where I truly started to take myself more seriously with my business. And therefore, I feel like others started to take me more seriously as well!
One thing I also liked about making the switch is that people associated ME with my business, so it also felt more personable and like they were reaching out to a person instead of a business, if that makes sense!
So here are some things to think about when choosing a business name:
- Is there anyone else in your area that has a similar name as the one you’re about to choose?
- How easy is it to remember?
- Can it last you long term?
- Is it easy to spell?
Overall, I’m in the camp of choosing to use your own name for your business because I think in the long run it’s better for your business, but that’s just my opinion! However, there are a few instances where I wouldn’t use your name: your name is really challenging to say/speak; someone else in your area has the same name as you or is super similar.
As always, take it with a grain of salt! I hope that this can be helpful today for someone!
Linda is a Portland-based photographer specializing in weddings and creating family legacies from Portland to Boston and across New England. You can see more of her work online at lindabarryphotography.com, on Instagram, or on Facebook. If you want to reach out directly: linda@lindabarryphotography.com.
Linda is a Portland-based photographer specializing in weddings and creating family legacies from Portland to Boston and across New England. You can see more of her work online at lindabarryphotography.com, on Instagram, or on Facebook. If you want to reach out directly: linda@lindabarryphotography.com.
If you liked this post, you might like these also!
comments +