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QR Code Use in Professional Photography Sales and Marketing

QR Code Use in Photography Sales

I am learning about the QR Code.  If you are not familiar with this new technology, it is a certain type of "barcode" that is a two dimensional "matrix barcode".  QR stands for "Quick Response" and the code consists of modules arranged in a square pattern on white background.  The code can include a URL, business card info, photography, video and text.  Individuals use applications on Smart Cellular Phones to "read" the image and pick up information.

This technology was created in 1994 in Japan by Toyota.  It was used for tracking auto parts but now it has a ton of applications and is aimed at mobile smart phone users.

You can find these QR codes at museums, restaurants, grocery stores, buses, billboard ads, in-store displays, event ticketing, trade shows, print ads, contests, direct mail campaigns, websites, couponing, magazines, retail shops and more.  Some could be educating you on facts or exchanging telephone and business card info or offering you a deal at a restaurant.  There are lots of free QR code generating sites and then free application readers for your phones. The use is free.

Some artists are incorporating the QR codes in oil painting and in photography.  Pop Groups have been using it in downloads for songs which direct folks to websites.  There may be a move to make the QR more artistic with shapes with more color.  One might be able to begine to place their trademark within the space.   Governments are using it in passports.  It has become art in some locations.  Certain tourism locations are utilizing multiple codes on walking tours because they are cheaper to create than signs.  Japanese cemeteries are rumored to have them.

On 4 April 2011, United States author and experimental poet Trisha Barnes published a 26 page book titled, 'After the Revolution Has Passed Us By: An Experiment in Technological Expression' In the book, all traditional elements and words have been transformed into QR Code!. The only traditional words published in the book can be found on the cover and consist of title and author information.

Photographers can only expect the technology to increase here in the United States.  As a photographer, I anticipate placing one on the back of my business cards.  It may contain a connection to a video of my portfolio.  Perhaps I will incorporate it into the actual photograph itself.  It might drive any potential consumer to my url and then to my portfolio and contact information.  The technology is all about us and we need to embrace it.

About the Author

Cathy Marsh is a Connecticut based photographer who blogs at http://www.cathymarshphotography.com

Booker's Day Off Photo Contest: June 1 - August 1, 2011

Tags:   design · digital photography contests 2011 · photography · photos · web2.0 · webdesignNo Comments