To Blog, or not to Blog.. That is the question?

[texasshooter]

Can you guys tell me the benefit that you have realized by blogging, I'm not talking about the apparent benefit, but one that you have really realized, like increased business, or interest in your work, or anything like that if I am making sense at all. Maybe what I mean is, is it worth it. If you are blogging, then which blog company do you use. What about one of Cindy's bride's (Littlegal) who goes crazy, and rants on the blog about you is that a possibiity, and what does one do about that. And, does anyone have any "rule of thumb" suggestions in putting one together. Anything else, anyone else wants to kick in, be my guest.

[osimages]

Good question and one that I have pondered. I have a blog but hardly ever update it because I am not sure it is worth the time.

One advantage is it provides additional links for the search engines especially if you begin to swap links.

I use Wordpress that is hosted on my own site.

[12stones]

I haven't blogged for my photography business, but I do run a blog. I use Wordpress hosted on my own server. I've found it to be the best out there. As for the crazy lady, you can choose to require approval for comments before they're posted, or if you don't want to do that, just delete them later. Also, you can require people register to comment, and if they go nuts, just delete them and block their IP. You have full control. Blogging can be a great tool for word of mouth. I have a friend who tells her clients that if they can get 15 friends or family members to comment on the post with their pictures, she'll give them a small print credit, and it usually generates another appointment for her or additional print sales from the grandma who wants an extra such and such. I'm not ready to start blogging yet, but it will be a tool I use soon.

[texasshooter]

Hey Os,
You can take some pictures.... I have never heard of wordpress, thanks for the info.

Hey Ricky,
So you were in the Corp... That's okay, but I was in the real tough service, The United States Air Force.... Just kidding.... Brother did the Marine thing, was a Sea going Marine. Anyway that 2 that recommend wordpress, gonna look into it more. thanks

[georgep]

I have a blog on Google (www.plummerspixels.blogspot.com) – it is easy. I do it for my own amusement and I am sure there is also an ego thing somewhere. I really don’t expect anyone to read the musings of someone who has already forgotten the English grammar they learnt in high school - but I have sneaky hopes. I suppose I could share my thoughts with a diary but where’s the technology in that? Besides, it is humbling to expound on a “very important topic” and then find out that nobody else cares! Returning to the original question, I can’t imagine it being useful for business. Most folks looking for images won’t take time to read. Most readers probably aren’t looking for images. - GeorgeP