Category: Wedding Tips
I was born and raised in Los Angeles where traffic is inevitable, smog is ubiquitous and we all speak a bit of Spanish.
With California’s contiguous border with Mexico, I’ve been spoiled with Mexican flavors. I can’t tell you how much I love tacos, tamales and their imported beer.
… Modelo Especial the No. 3 imported beer behind Corona and Heineken. According to market research … Modelo Especial posted a 19% gain in dollar sales in 2011, enough to pass Bud Light Lime as the 14th-largest beer brand in the U.S.
Up to this point, Modelo Especial’s growth has been achieved with a limited marketing presence.
- USA Today
It’s pretty clear that Model Especial’s success is driven largely by its growing immediate target audience – Mexican Americans. Putting tastes aside, we haven’t even talked about brand influences.
Take Pepsi for example. Although they target the youth generation, older folks drink it to feel youthful. So, even I — an Asian American — will drink Modelo when hanging with my buds to feel more Mexican-y.
This is the same as how it’s no coincidence that President Obama is targeting youths with episodes on Discovery Channel’s Mythbusters. While that might seem strange for our executive officer to be there, he’s merely fishing where the fish are.
So, considering your own businesses, what is the trend for your target audiences? Where are they flocking? Be sure to ask yourself why you’re creating another social media page. And don’t say because everyone else is.
Mm … fish,
Lawrence Chan
P.S. Speaking of fish, I had a delicious dover sole at Joe’s in Las Vegas as a celebration after my WPPI 2012 presentation.
My favorite drink is a Chopin Martini slightly dirty. It’s not quite James Bond, but it’ll suffice.
On February 29, 2012, Facebook rolled out their new Like Pages. If you haven’t converted over, it will be mandated by March 30, 2012.
If you have gone through the tutorial, then you should be acquainted with the updates. However, I’m going to add my own insights to each section:
- Branding
- Analytics
- Messaging
Branding
There are a number of areas that have changed including the rules and condition. Please read carefully.
Cover Photo
The cover photo is probably the most obvious update of them all. It precedes your Timeline, so it’s important to have your brand message speak loudly and clearly.
- Dimensions: 850px by 315px
- Be sure to review the Page guidelines. There are important things that you must not do, such as “40% off” or “Tell Your Friends.”
This is where you can be creative without being too sale-sy. Yes, I made that word up.
Profile Picture
No more long vertical images. It is now a square that sits on the bottom left corner of your banner. Be creative and add something that represents you.
I talk about humanizing a brand all of the time. One of the most important features is to have your own profile (not a photo of a flower, client or kid).
This is one of the reasons why I believe Siri is so popular – she’s a person – while other voice command systems failed.
About Page
Before, the About Page was on the left column. Now, it’s prominently under your Profile Picture. Get creative!
No More Landing Tab
This is one of everyone’s disappointments. Don’t worry, they still have the Like, then reveal capabilities.
Therefore, it puts more emphasis on your Cover Photo to make your Page clear as possible. In exchange, Facebook does have certain Timeline features that can help promote your brand better. Read on.
Separate Page for Custom Apps
Custom apps are now on separate pages. If you already have one, they put it right in the center now, so that it’s pretty. You’re limited to 12 apps on your page.
- Dimensions: 520px by 810px (still the same)
Pin
Since we don’t have Landing Pages, it’s important that your Timeline reflects your brand.
One nifty feature is pinning posts, so that it will stick to the top of your Timeline. This way a cool post won’t be drowned in a Wall of updates.
Highlight
Highlight is a cool way to, well, highlight a post. Rather than making it float on the left or right side of a Timeline, it expands across the Timeline’s full width. It definitely adds attention to important updates.
Analytics
Facebook combined most of the important Analytics all into one section above your Timeline – Notifications, New Likes, Insights. No one can see it except for you.
Engaged Users
One overlooked feature about Facebook Insights is Engaged Users. I’m not talking about just looking at the number. If you click on the number of Engaged Users, it’ll show you how many people gave “negative feedback.”
A Negative Feedback is not an Unlike. It’s just as bad though. It’s when people decide to hide your posts. So, use this as a measure to see what posts work and what posts don’t.
To see your Insights, follow these instructions:
- Go view Insights.
- Hit “See All.”
- Under the graph, find the fourth column – Engaged Users.
- Find the individual Post you want to examine and click on the number of Engaged Users.
- A window should pop up with the information you need.
Messaging
In the past, Brand Like Pages cannot message people and vice versa. You had to have a Personal Page to do so.
Now, you can directly communicate with Like Pages. If you choose to not have this feature on, you could turn it off.
Conclusion
Overall, there are a lot of updates, but I welcome new changes. Facebook is always trying to improve. I’ll always write about updates on social media marketing. So, be a smart photographer and keep up!
- Follow my Facebook Page
- Follow me on Twitter
- Subscribe to newsletters for weekly fortune cookies
Do you like the changes? Comment below. And if you found this useful, share!
Ciao for now,
Lawrence Chan
P.S. I just discovered a card game and I’ve been obsessed with it. Monopoly Deal card game is so freaken awesome! That is all.
I came across two interesting stories that I want to share.
First, it’s about a copywriter named Lillian Eichler who worked for an ad agency Ruthrauff & Ryan. Her job was to sell a thousand copies of Encyclopedia of Etiquette.
Rather than just pitching a sell, she told a funny story about how a girl kept ordering chicken salad because she didn’t know how to pronounce any of the French items on the menu … or how to use all of the utensils or how to be graceful in a dinner environment and etc.
Eichler used a story to instill a bit of fear. Rather than being graceful and poised, the protagonist was awkward and unfamiliar. As a result, Eichler sold over MM of this book, which is still available on Amazon today.
Click the image above or here for the full story / advertisement.
Two Young Men Ad
Martin Francis Conroy wrote an ad for the Wall Street Journal that ran successfully for 28 years and brought the company over billion in subscriptions.
Dear Reader:
On a beautiful late spring afternoon, twenty-five years ago, two young men graduated from the same college. They were very much alike, these two young men. Both had been better than average students, both were personable and both – as young college graduates are – were filled with ambitious dreams for the future.
Recently, these two men returned to college for their 25th reunion.
They were still very much alike. Both were happily married. Both had three children. And both, it turned out, had gone to work for the same Midwestern manufacturing company after graduation, and were still there.
But there was a difference. One of the men was manager of a small department of that company. The other was its president.
What Made The Difference
Have you ever wondered, as I have, what makes this kind of difference in people’s lives? It isn’t always a native intelligence or talent or dedication. It isn’t that one person wants success and the other doesn’t.
The difference lies in what each person knows and how he or she makes use of that knowledge.
And that is why I am writing to you and to people like you about The Wall Street Journal. For that is the whole purpose of The Journal: To give its readers knowledge – knowledge that they can use in business…
Similar to the girl who keeps ordering chicken salad out of fear of mispronouncing entrees or misuse of utensils, this WSJ advertisement plays on fear of missing out on certain business knowledge another person might acquire.
Click here for the full story / advertisement.
Fear of Missing Out
The aforementioned stories are simple illustrations of how stories sell when combined with the right emotional triggers.
Emotions represent the most basic element of our decision-making. Sometimes, emotions become so strong that they overpower logic. Jealousy, for example, might motivate a guy to punch another guy in the face — even though he’s bigger and stronger.
Doh! Doesn’t take long to learn that lesson.
– Chapter 3 // Section: Emotional Triggers // Social Media Marketing for Digital Photographers
As an example for my wedding photography readers, “It takes a lifetime to find your soulmate and a split-second to miss it all.” Sense the mild fear?
Cheers to a grand 2012,
Lawrence Chan
P.S. I love colors!
A colorful note from Alicia Haskew – “Pumped! Prepped! Thanks @tofurious! You genius little man, you!”
Like choosing a prom date, jitters and stomach butterflies often precede the courting process.
Skip the aversion of choosing which speaker to see and attend my Platform Seminar on Monday morning where everyone is platonic dance partner.
Sunday, Feb 19, 2012 – 6:00 PM
Häagen Dazs Food Court
Yeah, food court at Studio Walk. I’m fancy like that.
If you’d like to come for a casual chat / hangout, I’ll be there with a mint chip ice cream cone. This gives you plenty of time to catch Photographers Ignite at 7 PM or dinner with friends.
You can download the full MGM map here.
Monday, Feb 20, 2012 – 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM
How to Build Trust With Social Media
Type: Platform Class
Track: Business/Marketing
Lawrence, known in the social media world as Tofurious, knows the importance of engaging with your audience through an online presence. But, what if you don’t have an audience? Or what if you do and want to expand it?
Learn powerful strategies and the psychological triggers involved in creating brand supporters who trust you and want to tell others about your business. Ultimately, people hire those whom they like and know. Go beyond word-of-mouth marketing and give yourself a voice online.
You can pre-board here.
See you all there! For the rest of the week, I have no idea what I’ll be doing, but you can follow @tofurious on Twitter or on Facebook for updates.
Lawrence Chan
There is a specific Starbucks in Pasadena that I absolutely adore. I go there all of the time. In fact, there are many closer … much closer … but I still drive the extra miles because they know my name, my favorite drink and tidbits about me. They make me feel special.
I doubt it was the baristas’ intentions to befriend me, but we just happened to kick it off nicely. With increasing competition (especially in the photography industry), it’s more and more important to humanize your brand.
And one of the pioneers in creating this type of human connection, even online, is Jasmine Star, whom I find to be the cat’s pajamas.
Jasmine is hosting a 12-city tour called TheFIX. An FAQ can be found here.
February 27, 2012 – Phoenix, Arizona
February 29, 2012 – Dallas, Texas
March 02, 2012 – Miami, Florida
March 05, 2012 – Atlanta, Georgia
March 06, 2012 – Nashville, Tennessee
March 08, 2012 – Washington DC
March 09, 2012 – New York City, New York
March 12, 2012 – Boston, Massachusetts
March 14, 2012 – Chicago, Illinois
March 16, 2012 – Denver, Colorado
March 19, 2012 – San Francisco, California
March 20, 2012 – Los Angeles, California
You could [listen to] a podcast [or read a book], but it’s not the same as being there.
– Zach Gray
I’ve exchanged emails and text messages with Jasmine, but it’s not the same as playing Rock-Paper-Scissors for a P.F. Chang’s lunch bill. Her magnetic and quirky personality is something that can only be fully experienced in person.
Hope you all get a chance to enjoy her warm aura,
Lawrence Chan
P.S. I’ve attended a number of seminars and found the Q/A part to be equally rewarding (and sometimes too short). Not only does Jasmine have a Q/A session, she even integrated an open discussion section after the break.
Let’s start with the basics.
What is a QR Code?
A QR (abbreviated Quick Response) code is a two-dimensional matrix barcode used for scanning. Just like a regular barcode, by scanning it, the QR code can output various informations.
- Text
- URL
- Phone Number
- Vcard / Contact Card
- Wifi Access (Android only)
For example, rather than having to fumble with typing a long URL and be subjected to typos, you can scan a QR code and it’ll direct you to a website.
People who see these codes could use an app on their mobile phones to scan and view information immediately. My personal favorite apps are RedLaser for iPhone and QR Droid for Android.
QR Code Tips
QR codes are gaining high popularity (9,480% increase from 2010 to 2011) despite its various barriers – requires an app, minimal awareness (6% of Americans used QR codes as of June 2011) and other options.
Should you use QR codes, here are some suggestions.
Creative Custom Codes
Avoid the generic black pixelated codes. That’s boring. Change the colors and so forth! Thanks to QRHacker.com, they’ve created a nice platform for creating your own custom QR code … even with a logo embedded. Below is mine along with other examples.
Purpose
Don’t make a QR code just for the sake of a QR code. Make sure that they have a purpose – such as to avoid long URLs.
For example, use it to link to a specific product, portfolio or other qualitative information like contacts or coupons!
Best Buy uses QR codes so that customers can read reviews and detailed information about specific products.
Incentivize
If you simply say, Like me on Facebook. No one is going to care. Give people reason(s) to want to engage with you.
As an example, using content strategy, pet photographers could share cool dog treats on their blogs. Of course, make sure to include a photo of your dog enjoying the new treat. This is, by the way, a great opportunity for you to show off your photography.
BBC included an awesome call to action for readers – scan for recipe! And if you were a food photographer, include a photo of the dish.
The ideas are endless …
Custom Landing Pages
Since QR codes are used by mobile devices, it’d be sensible to create a mobile landing page. This way, users won’t have to zoom in just to read the text or see the photos.
Using the same BBC example from above, check out their chic landing page for the recipe!
Track
Lastly, use a URL tracker to see the effectiveness of your QR code usage. Some good trackers are http://goo.gl and http://bit.ly.
That should wrap up the pros and cons for QR codes. As an early adopter of technology, I think this is cooler than the frozen berries in my freezer.
Ciao,
Lawrence Chan
P.S. Here’s an innovative way Scandinavian Airlines is using QR codes.
P.P.S. While in New Orleans for two conferences – DWF and IUSA – Julie and I learned so much about the city’s history and culture.
A highlight from our trip was playing in the swamps and holding a baby alligator! Since they’re all in hibernation, our guide grabbed this tot from a cooler.
Vroom!
Don’t know if you all have heard of Zach and Jody Gray. They’re quite possibly the cutest couple in the wedding photography industry. And when I say cute, I also mean badass when it comes to lighting.
- Learn the method to Zach & Jody Gray’s 5-hour editing wedding workflow
- Rock awesome images right in-camera
- Feel confident in your off-camera lighting
- Practice the taught principles with 3 hours of shoot time with real models
Zach & Jody’s IN-CAMERA workshops are so informative and fun, it’s almost like being at Summer camp.
Whether you’re new to photography or a seasoned pro, there’s something for everyone in these workshops, and the knowledge and technical skills you’ll acquire will immediately improve your photography. Zach & Jody are excellent teachers, breaking down technical and confusing lighting concepts into terms that everyone can understand. Everything just makes sense.
Zach & Jody also make sure that everyone gets individual attention and one-on-one personal time throughout the day. You’ll make some new friends, too! If you’re ready to take your photography to the next level, the IN-CAMERA workshops are definitely a worthwhile investment. You won’t regret it!”
- Ann-Mishoe Photography
Register Here
Use code to save 0: TOFURIOUSgray
Take advantage of this!
Lawrence Chan
Although it’s debatable between the benefits of a Personal Page versus Like Page for business, I strongly feel that the former still holds great value as we build relationships with clients in an intimate way. For example, Facebook Personal Pages allow you to see clients’ updates whereas a Like Page can only push information outwardly.
In any event, let’s talk about the Ten Commandments of Facebook Personal Pages.
1. Thou shalt not invite everyone on their Friends list to an event.
I live in the United States, but I get invites to parties — get this — from across the Atlantic Ocean. Does this screenshot qualify his or her efforts? Localize.
Instead, create an event and post it on your Timeline. If it piques interest, people will join.
2. Thou shalt not tag for the sake of viewership.
Don’t upload a photo and tag everyone for the purpose of having them see it or shown on their respective Timelines, especially if they’re not even in the photo.
3. Thou shalt not promote oneself 24/7.
If you can’t produce beneficial content, then share content relevant to your business goal. Go ahead and throw in some funny pictures like cheezburger cat.
4. Thou shalt not complain 24/7.
Splendid. For the 3rd week in a row, you have insomnia. Repeating it won’t make it go away.
I know that life sometimes stinks. We will console you. Ultimately, focus on feel good factors.
5. Thou shalt not invite everyone to Like your Page.
If you have a Page, good.
Create some worthwhile content and tag yourself, so that it’ll enter people’s newsfeeds. If viewers are curious enough, they’ll explore. Forcing invitation of your Page to everyone is annoying.
Here’s another idea: host a giveaway.
6. Thou shalt not invite all Friends to play a game.
Negative.
7. Thou shalt not request all Friends to use an application.
Another negative.
8. Thou shalt not mass email everyone on his or her Friends list.
We hate spam. Even Spam Musubi isn’t that appealing … Why do it on Facebook?
9. Thou shalt not invite people to Groups without their knowing.
The perfect way to wake up in the morning is to realize that you’re unknowingly part of an active Facebook Group, so it plugs up your real notifications.
10. Thou shalt not update every hour.
Thanks for letting everyone know that you’re at the supermarket via FourSquare. And then at home. Followed by a visit to a burger joint. Next, a pit stop at Starbucks. And so forth …
Bottom line? Be considerate.
Facebook is always evolving, so this list will inevitably evolve. Just don’t do things you don’t think is cool.
I’m not complaining. I’m saving whomever face. I still quietly and diligently unfollow Groups I was forced into. I still quietly and diligently untag myself from photos that have no relationship to me. I still quietly and diligently …
Alas, not everyone is like me. The aforementioned actions could really upset others — like a permanent ban.
Saving people from trouble,
Lawrence Chan
P.S. I’m having an Häagen Dazs social at WPPI. Come join me Sunday, Feb 19, 2012 – 6:00 PM!
P.P.S. If any of these have happened to you, share.
P.P.P.S. Did I miss anything?
P.P.P.P.S. A nice note from Mark Oristano for my pricing and packaging e-book.
When I was at UCLA, I had this disgusting roommate. He was putrid. Don’t even get me started with his personal hygiene. I didn’t care so much as long as he didn’t cross onto my side of the room.
One day, he not only crossed the line, he touched it. Like he literally wiped a booger on my towel because he ran out of tissue, touched it. Needless to say, I was furious. As much as I wanted to punch his lights out, I offered him my towel as a personal tissue and went to Target to purchase a new one.
Hatred is a very negative emotion. It is venomous for the person issuing caustic words and for the recipient of said animosity.
On February 7, 2012, Ellen Degeneres posted a video in response to some critics about her sponsorship by JC Penney. I found Ellen DeGeneres to have handled the criticism with grace, humility and, most importantly, humor.
“Here are the values that I stand for:
- honesty
- equality
- kindness
- compassion
- treating people the way you want to be treated
- and helping those in need
To me, those are traditional values; that’s what I stand for.”
- Ellen DeGeneres
So, in the face of haters, just smile. They’re not worth your time.
Celebrating the month of love,
Lawrence Chan
P.S. Are you ready for Valentine’s Day? And it’s okay to send a gift to yourself. I approve of it.
After talking with Marietta St Onge for about a year, she have managed to work out a time slot for me! Since I will be flying out to Texas for SXSW on Friday morning, CTPPA was gracious enough to squeeze me in as a pre-convention speaker the evening before.
I am honored to be speaking at CTPPA’s annual convention about social media marketing. Since it’s before the actual convention, I’d imagine the seminar to be more intimate, thus fun!
Plus, since it’s a 3-hour time slot, which is longer than most talks, I’m leaving lots of room for open discussion. I’ve always found that q/a sessions to be equally helpful as the actual talk.
March 8, 2012 – Thursday at 6-9 PM
Hope to see you there!
Sincerely,
Lawrence
P.S. I’ll be there a little earlier, so come hang out! I’ll tweet or post to facebook for updates.