A couple of weeks ago at the launch night for RAW at London nightclub Jalouse (in support of Cancer Research UK), I saw an example of an established profession using the internet to generate revenue.

On arrival at the private members club, frequented by celebs including Sienna Miller, Ronan Keating and Leonardo DiCaprio, attendees were photographed red carpet style by Pictures Inc, and given the option to purchase the print outs on site; just like when you get off the Log Flume at Alton Towers.

But if you didn’t want to run the risk of losing your print out on the way home, you could always log on to the Pictures Inc website the next morning and purchase the photo online as an A4 print out or get it made into a key ring.

The internet means photographers can generate revenue after an event.

Paul Martin from Pictures Inc says the practice is a double edge sword, whilst many partygoers like to see their photo online, only a few go on to purchase.

I think Paul is correct, but quite possibly polite in his observation. I would go as far as saying it’s simply modern day narcissism in action.

The kind of narcissism that would lend itself to sending to friends, posting on Facebook, or embedding into a blog (who would do that?).

This ‘self gratifying viral’ behaviour can be used to the advantage of sponsors whose branding appears behind most photos (in this case The Fashion Crowd and Jalouse) – it’s like making a celebrity out of every individual. Perhaps this is the way to fund event photography, in addition to merchandise?