How can we make surviving the credit crunch easier on our photography businesses – and our wallets?

There are a number of tricks to fall back on when the going gets rough. Here’s a few ideas from the Photo Pro staff writers that might get you thinking…

•    Slashing your prices is never a good idea, but offering package deals and extra incentives to clients might tempt them back through your studio door. Throw in extra gifts to people making a large purchase – it’ll make them feel better about spending the money.

•    Remind your clients that you’re there – send out personalised emails newsletters (cheaper than postcards!) with information about any new packages that you’re offering. Equally, invoice by email rather than through printed letters.

•    Make sure your home office (if you do work from home) or studio is well insulated to keep you warm while you work and save money on heating. Putting bookcases against external walls can help (seriously!).

•    Try before you buy – many camera retailers have a policy in place that allows you to take a camera for a test drive before you part with your cash. Or – rent anything expensive, and factor the costs into your bill.

•    Stock photography – upload some of your old work to stock sites to see if you can make a little extra cash on the side.

•    Finding things a little slow? Spend time rejuvenating your website – or setting one up in the first place. Make sure it’s full of relevant keywords so search engines can find it.

•    For jobs located far away, take public transport instead of driving - or target local businesses and emphasise your closeness.

•    Shoot less rather than spending all your time processing – only shoot what’s going to sell (easier said than done, we know)

•    Although we’d support you using an assistant wherever possible, meticulous planning may free you from needing to spend the money on one – or, if you really need help, ask a student if they want some work experience.

•    Use rechargable batteries instead of disposable ones wherever possible. You know it makes sense!

•    If you’ve got an accountant, talk to them about how your money could be working for you – or simply to assuage your fears.

•    If you need a studio, why not think about hiring a hotel room instead? It’ll cost you a fraction of the cost and will be already set up for you. You could even use it as accommodation for the night – try to resist the minibar…

•    Sit tight and ride it out – things will get better eventually, promise! And people will always need photographers…