Photographic Services

Photographic Services

Brief Excerpt from Industry Overview Chapter:

Companies in this industry provide still, video, or digital photography services, such as commercial and industrial photography, portrait photography, and special events photography. Major US companies include portrait studios Cherry Hill Programs, Lifetouch, and Picture People, as well as commercial photo service Getty Images. Outside the US, major companies include H Tempest (UK), Studio Alice (Japan), and Visual China Group.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Demand is closely tied to consumer income and corporate marketing activity. The profitability of individual companies depends heavily on effective marketing. Large companies have economies of scale in marketing and production. Small companies can compete effectively by offering specialized services or holding favorable locations. The US photographic services industry is fragmented: the 50 largest companies generate about 40% of revenue.

PRODUCTS, OPERATIONS & TECHNOLOGY

Major products are family portraits and images for corporate advertising and marketing materials. Portrait photography accounts for half of industry revenue, followed by commercial and industrial photography at 30% and wedding and special event photography at 10%. Other products include convention and meeting photography, licensing of photo rights, and equipment rental.