Launched in 2013 and inspired by the belief that memories are the best travel souvenir, Flytographer is a Canadian-based start-up that connects travellers with a global community of local photographers in 190 destinations for fun, candid photo shoots that capture the wonder of exploring a new place. The first company to market global holiday photography services, Flytographer is changing the way people remember their trips by providing one-of-a-kind local experiences and beautiful photographs that become priceless souvenirs.
Flytographer takes flight
Flytographer was founded by Nicole Smith, a former Microsoft Marketing Manager and consultant-turned-entrepreneur with a lifelong appetite for travel. Nicole’s idea for Flytographer came after a trip to Paris to reunite with her best friend. Disappointed with selfies and the photos they had asked strangers to snap, the duo asked a local friend to take candid photographs of them enjoying the city together. Upon returning home with beautiful images that truly captured the spirit of her trip, Nicole identified a gap in the market for holiday photography. Inspired by the photographs from her own trip and recognising the trend of travellers seeking authentic local experiences and meaningful souvenirs, Nicole founded Flytographer in March 2013.
How it works
Three years later, Nicole and her team have built a curated network of hundreds of Flytographers on every continent but Antarctica , and in cities from Reykjavik to New York City to Shanghai. Flytographers capture holiday moments from families on multigenerational trips, romantic couples’ excursions, friend getaways, solo travels and even marriage proposals. All of the photographers in Flytographer’s network have been carefully vetted based on skill, style and personality, and they work with clients to understand their preferences and ideal backdrops. Flytographers also serve as informal local tour guides , sharing insider tips for the most photographic spots around the city, plus hidden gems and the places to avoid.
Flytographer’s easy-to-navigate website allows travellers to book photography services for their trips in minutes. Customers can browse photographers and their portfolios, and then connect with a “shoot concierge” with any questions. Once the shoot is booked, travellers receive a “Shoot Scoop” via email confirming the logistics, including meeting place and the photographer’s headshot. On the day, clients meet their photographer at the designated meeting place and enjoy a fun and informal shoot capturing candid and documentary-style images as they stroll iconic parts of the city. Customers receive a link to download high-resolution photos within days. Packages range from US$250 to US$500 for shoots up to 90 minutes.
Flytographer closed its first round of funding from BC-based angel investors in early 2015 and has since forged official partnerships with global travel brands, including Virtuoso, Context Travel tours and Fairmont Hotels.
Virtuoso advisors receive a 10 per cent commission on bookings, while their clients will receive 20 per cent more digital images and 30 per cent off prints.
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