Consulting Services

"Mary Virginia Swanson is a force and her energy is contagious. Our phone meetings have proven to be pivotal in moving my work forward and realizing my goals. She is truly an inspiration and I am thrilled to have her counsel"
© Sean Perry , 2005

My phone consultation with Mary Virginia Swanson had an immediate, eye opening impact on the direction of my work. Her insights into my project fostered enhanced communication with my subjects and their families, resulting in more effectively delivering my message to viewers. She helped me define goals and list the steps necessary to achieve logical and attainable progression for my project. A phone consult is a very effective, timely way to communicate with Ms. Swanson and I look forward to our next conversation

© Teresa Ollila, 2005

"My phone consultation with Mary Virginia Swanson had an immediate, eye opening impact on the direction of my work. Her insights into my project fostered enhanced communication with my subjects and their families, resulting in more effectively delivering my message to viewers. She helped me define goals and list the steps necessary to achieve logical and attainable progression for my project. A phone consult is a very effective, timely way to communicate with Ms. Swanson and I look forward to our next conversation"
© Teresa Ollila, 2005

Mary Virginia Swanson provided me invaluable guidance and support to bring my photo series to museum proposal format. Her extensive knowledge of what art professionals look for when considering a proposed exhibition, her attention to detail, and enthusiastic encouragement provided me the creative adrenalin rush I needed to see my proposal through to completion. Her infectious optimism gives me the confidence to firmly believe that American Ruins: Spirits in Stone will become a reality as a traveling exhibition and publication.

© Arthur Drooker, 2006

"Mary Virginia Swanson provided me invaluable guidance and support to bring my photo series to museum proposal format. Her extensive knowledge of what art professionals look for when considering a proposed exhibition, her attention to detail, and enthusiastic encouragement provided me the creative adrenalin rush I needed to see my proposal through to completion. Her infectious optimism gives me the confidence to firmly believe that American Ruins: Spirits in Stone will become a reality as a traveling exhibition and publication. "
© Arthur Drooker, 2006

Mary Virginia Swanson possesses a complete understanding of the world of fine art photography and its key players. Most importantly, she understands the mechanism of getting an artist's work into a seemingly impenetrable market. Her phone consultations have had a great impact on my promotion strategy, website design and future exhibition opportunities. They have already paid for themselves in print sales.

© John Chervinsky, 2006

"Mary Virginia Swanson possesses a complete understanding of the world of fine art photography and its key players. Most importantly, she understands the mechanism of getting an artist's work into a seemingly impenetrable market. Her phone consultations have had a great impact on my promotion strategy, website design and future exhibition opportunities. They have already paid for themselves in print sales."
© John Chervinsky, 2006

Mary Virginia Swanson should be declared a national photographic treasure. She has has helped me and so many others navigate the intricate path to photographic success with incredible creativity, intelligence and organization. Her breadth of knowledge and ability to see career opportunity in a simple portfolio of prints gives the photographer not only confidence but the tools and contacts needed to turn ambition into success. She is a great person to work, with no matter where you are. Since I don’t live in NY or Arizona, we talk by phone or email and though her schedule is incredibly full, she always manages to make time for me. Swanee rocks

© Dave Anderson, 2006

"Mary Virginia Swanson should be declared a national photographic treasure. She has has helped me and so many others navigate the intricate path to photographic success with incredible creativity, intelligence and organization. Her breadth of knowledge and ability to see career opportunity in a simple portfolio of prints gives the photographer not only confidence but the tools and contacts needed to turn ambition into success. She is a great person to work, with no matter where you are. Since I don’t live in NY or Arizona, we talk by phone or email and though her schedule is incredibly full, she always manages to make time for me. Swanee rocks"
© Dave Anderson, 2006

It would be difficult to overstate the value of MVS's assistance in my recent book contract negotiations. Through a variety of telephone conversations and numerous email correspondences, she not only read and reread the contract, but provided me with endless and valuable suggestions for rephrasing the contract so as to protect my interests as an artist. Because this was my first publishing contract, I knew not what I was doing so I turned to Ms Swanson and with her firm but gentle guidance I signed a contract that was not only fair but also one that I felt very comfortable with. She is a godsend for artists.

© Craig J Barber, 2006

"It would be difficult to overstate the value of MVS's assistance in my recent book contract negotiations. Through a variety of telephone conversations and numerous email correspondences, she not only read and reread the contract, but provided me with endless and valuable suggestions for rephrasing the contract so as to protect my interests as an artist. Because this was my first publishing contract, I knew not what I was doing so I turned to Ms Swanson and with her firm but gentle guidance I signed a contract that was not only fair but also one that I felt very comfortable with. She is a godsend for artists."
© Craig J Barber, 2006

When I asked Ms. Swanson to help me decipher a contract, she was quick to respond. Soon after I emailed her a copy of the contract in question I received an annotated copy with clear and thoughtful explanations of tricky areas, comments, suggestions and a general opinion of whether or not signing the contract was a good move given my current career direction. The input was invaluable and it provided me with new tools and insights to apply to subsequent contracts. She is a caring, interested and no-nonsense consultant. Without any hesitation, I will use her expertise in the future.

© Elizabeth Siegfried, 2005

"When I asked Ms. Swanson to help me decipher a contract, she was quick to respond. Soon after I emailed her a copy of the contract in question I received an annotated copy with clear and thoughtful explanations of tricky areas, comments, suggestions and a general opinion of whether or not signing the contract was a good move given my current career direction. The input was invaluable and it provided me with new tools and insights to apply to subsequent contracts. She is a caring, interested and no-nonsense consultant. Without any hesitation, I will use her expertise in the future."
© Elizabeth Siegfried, 2005

After three month of redesigning a new website, I was extremely pleased with it visually, but I felt that something was missing in the narrative. My partner Pat felt that at this point we should consult with someone who really has their fingers on the pulse of Photography today. We did the research, and the one name that consistently came up was Mary Virginia Swanson. I emailed her and set up a time and date for a phone consultation. It was a very animated and productive conversation. She suggested a number of innovative possibilities. I locked on the one suggestion in particular, which was to begin each category with a short introduction in the first person. That one element served to pull the site together and made it much more effective and approachable. Aside from being very well informed, Mary Virginia is a virtual 'River' of enthusiasm, knowledge and intuitive good judgement.

© Phil Marco, 2005

"After three month of redesigning a new website, I was extremely pleased with it visually, but I felt that something was missing in the narrative. My partner Pat felt that at this point we should consult with someone who really has their fingers on the pulse of Photography today. We did the research, and the one name that consistently came up was Mary Virginia Swanson. I emailed her and set up a time and date for a phone consultation. It was a very animated and productive conversation. She suggested a number of innovative possibilities. I locked on the one suggestion in particular, which was to begin each category with a short introduction in the first person. That one element served to pull the site together and made it much more effective and approachable. Aside from being very well informed, Mary Virginia is a virtual 'River' of enthusiasm, knowledge and intuitive good judgement."
© Phil Marco, 2005

Whether in person or by phone, the insights and guidance Mary Virginia Swanson provides has helped immensely in moving my photography forward. Her connections and understanding of the entire photographic market has been hugely valuable in refining my messaging and tightening my portfolios to meet my goals. Swanee is a pleasure to work with

© Sylvia Crain, 2005

"Whether in person or by phone, the insights and guidance Mary Virginia Swanson provides has helped immensely in moving my photography forward. Her connections and understanding of the entire photographic market has been hugely valuable in refining my messaging and tightening my portfolios to meet my goals. Swanee is a pleasure to work with"
© Sylvia Crain, 2005

Mary Virginia Swanson provided me with invaluable advice to maximize the potential of Contact Sheet #110. Contact Sheet was a wonderful showcase for my work and Swanson's vision of it as a tool to increase my collection and exhibition record and target potential new audiences was well strategized and professional.

© Margaret Stratton Photography, 2004

"Mary Virginia Swanson provided me with invaluable advice to maximize the potential of Contact Sheet #110. Contact Sheet was a wonderful showcase for my work and Swanson's vision of it as a tool to increase my collection and exhibition record and target potential new audiences was well strategized and professional."
© Margaret Stratton Photography, 2004

Mary Virginia Swanson really loves what she does, and it shows in every way. I came to her with a self published, hand made photography book. Her advice about what markets would be appropriate for my book and how to go about making the connections has given me new opportunities that I did not know existed. She has an amazing wealth of knowledge and resources that she generously shares

© Millicent Harvey, 2004

"Mary Virginia Swanson really loves what she does, and it shows in every way. I came to her with a self published, hand made photography book. Her advice about what markets would be appropriate for my book and how to go about making the connections has given me new opportunities that I did not know existed. She has an amazing wealth of knowledge and resources that she generously shares"
© Millicent Harvey, 2004

Mary Swanson has taught me how to assemble a relevant client list, create professional promotional pieces, conduct targeted campaigns, and establish personal relationships with my new clients in the book jacket market. She takes the mystery out of building a successful career....

© Heather Walsh, 2004

"Mary Swanson has taught me how to assemble a relevant client list, create professional promotional pieces, conduct targeted campaigns, and establish personal relationships with my new clients in the book jacket market. She takes the mystery out of building a successful career...."
© Heather Walsh, 2004

When the student is ready, the teacher is said to appear. Such is the case with me when I met Mary Virginia Swanson and I knew it almost immediately. My personal meetings and telephone consultations have proven themselves highly effective tools and finally the frozen log jam of my career is on the move once again. When I am speaking with Mary Virginia on the telephone, I can feel my mind stretching and expanding. It is as if I am almost out of breath as I attempt to keep up with her as I am at least twenty paces behind . Great news however: my old dysfunctional style of thinking is changing for the better and so is my vision. Mary Virginia is teaching me a more skillful style of thinking based on the realities of the business world and it is literally paying off. It is my good fortune to be working with her

© Stephen Harrison, 2005

"When the student is ready, the teacher is said to appear. Such is the case with me when I met Mary Virginia Swanson and I knew it almost immediately. My personal meetings and telephone consultations have proven themselves highly effective tools and finally the frozen log jam of my career is on the move once again. When I am speaking with Mary Virginia on the telephone, I can feel my mind stretching and expanding. It is as if I am almost out of breath as I attempt to keep up with her as I am at least twenty paces behind . Great news however: my old dysfunctional style of thinking is changing for the better and so is my vision. Mary Virginia is teaching me a more skillful style of thinking based on the realities of the business world and it is literally paying off. It is my good fortune to be working with her"
© Stephen Harrison, 2005

Payment Options | FAQ's For Photographers | Consulting with Photographers
Consulting to Source Photography | Consulting With Photography Agencies and Libraries | Expert Witness Services

Mary Virginia Swanson is sought after by photographers seeking to establish professional relationships, and focused marketing efforts, to place their personal work in the fine art arena. Ms. Swanson has assisted and inspired many artists to build on the strengths of their work and gain a broader understanding of the fine art, commercial and editorial markets. To stay current in our industry, and to provide exceptional consulting service, Ms. Swanson attends every major photography event, either as a speaker, portfolio reviewer or juror, as well as gaining continuing education for herself.

If you are interested in working with Mary Virginia Swanson as your creative consultant, you will find it useful to CLICK HERE FOR THE OPEN APPOINTMENTS CALENDAR.

This calendar indicates in BLUE what city Ms. Swanson will be in on what date, and any events she is participating in that are open to the public. On many trips she has set time aside to see photographers privately who wish to consult with her; if appointments are available, they will be indicated on this calendar; if filled, that too will be noted (you may then contact Alyssa at alyssa@mvswanson.com to request being placed on a waiting list for appointments that may become available).

(Please note: For full details on the public lectures and workshops, please view our Upcoming Events page.)

Please understand that Ms. Swanson is a Consultant, not an agent. She does not make introductions or secure professional relationships for her consulting clients with galleries, publishers or clients in other markets.

Ms. Swanson will tailor her consulting services to meet your goals, such as:

Help you in understanding the business of photography and work together to build your “toolkit” toward participation as an informed professional.
Maximize your investment in portfolio review events, preparing for portfolio review events, and attending gallery expos.
Assist you in identifying appropriate exhibition venues for showing completed bodies of work.
Assist you with your research toward prioritizing potential creative clients in the advertising and design communities, if appropriate for you and your work.
Guide you in preparing your self-promotion pieces.
Inspire you to stay creative, recognize the strengths in your work, and build upon those strengths.

Please note: As of March 1, 2008, priority for new client consultations will be given to those who have previously attended a workshop with Ms. Swanson.

The remaining options for attending workshops with Mary Virginia Swanson in 2008 are listed below (space is limited in all sessions):

Maine Photo Workshop August 6th - 9th: WORKSHOP FILLED

Newly announced: FALL MARKETING WORKSHOP, Tucson, Arizona

November 6th - 9th, 2008

Special Guest Presenters: Artists Lisa M. Robinson and Ken Rosenthal

To receive complete information, contact Beth at beth@mvswanson.com

(Details TBA - Registration will begin July 21st)

TO SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION APPOINTMENT:

If you are interested in scheduling an appointment, either for an in-person or telephone consultation, please click here to fill out the Client Fact Sheet.

(Please note: you will be placed on our current appointment waiting list according to the date we receive your Client Fact Sheet, so please fill out this form BEFORE contact regarding an appointment. Thank you.)

Once your form has been received, you will be contacted shortly with possible dates and times for your consulation by our consultations coordinator Alyssa at alyssa@mvswanson.com. Please watch for this correspondence.

Once a date has been confirmed, a verification email will be sent to you with the details of your consultation and advice on how to make the most of your session with Mary Virginia.

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PAYMENT OPTIONS

Payment options: Personal Check, Money Order, PayPal or your Credit Card through a secure transaction.

If you are making a payment for an invoice, please enter the invoice number in the comments section at the time of checkout.

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FAQ'S FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS

What is a private consultation with Mary Virginia Swanson?ANSWER
Can Ms. Swanson advise me as to which market(s) my photographs are most appropriate?"ANSWER
What can I expect to gain from a consultation with Ms. Swanson?ANSWER
What are the fees for an initial consultation and how long does it last?"ANSWER
I don't feel my work is quite ready for marketing, but I know I would benefit from a critique of my photographs. Is this something Ms. Swanson can assist me?ANSWER
Do I have to be a professional, exhibiting or working photographer to benefit from a consultation?"ANSWER
I am a working photographer, but believe my marketing needs reconsideration. Can Ms. Swanson provide advice, direction and practical assistance?"ANSWER
Is it recommended that I attend a lecture or workshop with Ms. Swanson prior to scheduling a private consultation?"ANSWER
How should I prepare for a private consultation with Ms. Swanson? What should I bring to the session? Do you want to see everything, or what I think is my best work of different subjects?"ANSWER
Do you consult with photographers on the subject of websites?"ANSWER
Before our scheduled private consultation may I call Ms. Swanson with questions?ANSWER
If I cannot meet with Ms. Swanson in-person, can we arrange a telephone consultation? How would this take place?""ANSWER
I do not live in New York or Tucson, but would like to consult with Ms. Swanson. Can this be arranged?"ANSWER
Is it appropriate to audiotape my consultation with Ms. Swanson?ANSWER
After the consultation, may I contact Ms. Swanson with follow-up questions? Will this be considered a "new" consultation?ANSWER
If I wish to continue the dialogue with Ms. Swanson beyond the consulting session, what do I need to do to book time with her, and what is the cost?ANSWER
When is payment due for my session, and what forms of payment are accepted?"ANSWER
Must I send a down payment to Ms. Swanson to hold the reserved time for our consultation?ANSWER
If I were unable to meet with Ms. Swanson at our appointed time, would I owe Ms. Swanson a cancellation fee?ANSWER
I'd like to be informed of visits Ms. Swanson will be making to conduct workshops and meeting with photographers in my area. Do you have a newsletter or blog? "ANSWER

Thank you for your interest in my professional consulting services. I look forward to meeting all of you in the not too distant future!

MVS

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CONSULTING WITH PHOTOGRAPHERS

Many photographers contact me to learn more about my one-on-one consultation services. What follows is a broad range of responses to frequently asked questions (FAQ'S) by photographers; I hope this answers yours!
~Mary Virginia Swanson

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CONSULTING TO SOURCE PHOTOGRAPHY

Including advertising agencies, design firms, packaging design freelancers art buyers and interior decorators.

Ms. Swanson is regularly sought out by members of the creative industries seeking exceptional photographs or talented photographers towards their projects. As a frequent portfolio reviewer, juror and consultant to contemporary photographers, Ms. Swanson is regarded as a valuable conduit to vast numbers of contemporary fine art and documentary photographers.

Among the services Ms. Swanson can provide to you or your firm are:

Conducting high-end photo research towards licensing fine art photographs for advertising or design placement.
Aid in identifying and securing contemporary appropriate photographers for commissions.
Securing unique photographs for interior décor for homes, retail environment and commercial projects.

Contact Ms. Swanson's office at beth@mvswanson.com to discuss availability, terms and fees for working with her as a Consultant on your projects.

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CONSULTING WITH PHOTOGRAPHY AGENCIES/LIBRARIES

Marketing services to desired client base, and/or on issues relating to artist’s relations.

Ms. Swanson has been working closely with photographic agencies since starting her career at Magnum’s New York office in 1984. She has a unique perspective on editing image files and marketing campaigns targeted to the high-end buyer of imagery for commercial purposes.

Among the projects on which Ms. Swanson has lent her expertise:

Identifying photographs within agency image files that have potential for sales in the high-end advertising markets.
Providing current analysis of specific market segments towards helping agencies to more appropriately target their marketing efforts.
Tailoring agency promotional planning to maximize agency visibility within targeted client base(s).
Identifying creative photographers to recruit and tailor artists relations towards securing their ongoing participation.
Assisting agency with on-going education of agency photographers to provide awareness of industry resulting in optimum relevant material for client consideration.

Contact Ms. Swanson's office at beth@mvswanson.com to discuss availability, terms and fees for working with her as a Consultant for your agency.

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CONSULTING WITH EXPERT WITNESS SERVICES

Ms. Swanson has served as an expert witness on legal cases dealing with valuation of commercial and fine art photography collections and archives.

Contact Ms. Swanson's office at beth@mvswanson.com to discuss her expertise with expert witness services.

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