Photographers Can Do CwF+RtB Experiments, Too

from the n00bs-need-not-apply dept

Michiel Rhoen writes in to tell us about photography instructor and author, Thom Hogan, who has embraced the CwF+RtB philosophy by offering a limited edition deal (only 25 spots available with 4 already taken at the time of writing this) where Mr. Hogan will sit down one-on-one with each buyer for 3 hours. During those 3 hours, Hogan is game for almost any kind of photography consulting, giving his professional advice on camera equipment, portfolio reviews, help with post processing work or just a long chat over a meal together. But that's not all... The complete Thom Hogan Limited Edition package (US$849) includes:

• A full normal package for the book, Complete Guide to the Nikon D700 (CD and To Go Guide), a US$49.99 value
• A full printed version of the main book in black and white, a US$29.99 value
• A full printed, signed, numbered version of the main book in color, a US$99.99 value
• All of the above shipped to you via Priority Mail
• All future updates of the book, if any, delivered free, a likely US$14.99 value or more
• Three hours of personal, one-on-one time with Thom, a US$750 value

So this deal is aimed directly at folks who own a very specific camera and who happen to be able to travel to see Hogan when he's available for the one-on-one time. It's not exactly going to make Hogan a millionaire (at best, it's going to make him $21,225 gross). But it's a great example of how an author can take advantage of actual scarcities (Hogan's time and expertise) as part of a business. I do find it interesting that Hogan's limited edition offer is an experiment that might demonstrate the advantages of selling an author's time over selling content that is already created. I imagine if this package sells out, that Hogan will expand this limited offer to other specific cameras. And I'd bet he'd even be able to crowdfund a new book if enough amateur photographers ask him to create his next "complete guide" for a camera he might not otherwise have reviewed.

Filed Under: cwf, photography, rtb, thom hogan