How NOT to run your mobile DJ business, pics of the 'competition'...

[carblekin]

I like to try to keep an eye on my competition, other DJs in my area, to try and see how I compare. These are a few pictures of the DJs I've found that might not quite match up to the majority of the DJs on this thread. Just FYI, all these pictures are from their websites, and advertising.

Hope it'll be a good guide as to what not to do, as well as a little enjoyment for you. Hope to see more added to this thread too...

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7041/6986916945_98478a236d.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/6986916945/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7070/6840796280_7ae9a40574.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/6840796280/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7069/6986916917_7b4c93e540.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/6986916917/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7039/6840796216_43d7d4ef50.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/6840796216/)

Not sure about you, but I'm not sure I'd want an incredibly reflective 3' road sign with my DJ's company name on it, in all my wedding photos:

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7186/6986916929_4a15b444e0.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/6986916929/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7064/6986916937_a8e7873c81.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/6986916937/)

[RodneyL]

Yikes.

All the other DJ's in my immediate area do not have any ACTUAL pictures of their setups on their websites or their CL ads. I am the only one with real pictures posted. They use generic pictures of brides and grooms, mostly clipart stuff. One guy kept putting these cheesy ass cartoon gifs all over his CL ads of a little cartoon guy spinning at a dj table. It was gaudy but I bet he still got bookings... not everyone has good taste.

[carblekin]

And, here's how to NOT write a craigslist ad...

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7058/6987627261_01471254c2_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/6987627261/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7204/6987627231_b49c5f1ae4_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/6987627231/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7061/6987627299_9255ea68a3_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/6987627299/)

[DJ EZBeats]

Those are really on someones website as advertising?!?!?! That's the worst shit I've seen in a LONG time, if ever.

[RodneyL]

And, here's how to NOT write a craigslist ad...

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7058/6987627261_01471254c2_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/6987627261/)


The only thing the browsers on craigslist see on that ad is "will work with any budget"... which is why craigslist exists anyway.

[Ampedproductions]

haha love that karaoke ad...

[RodneyL]

one guy kept putting these cheesy ass cartoon gifs all over his cl ads of a little cartoon guy spinning at a dj table.

found it!

http://images.meez.com/user/8/6/7/2/6/3/1/8672631_bodyshot_300x400.gif

[jazzyj]

I'm certain I still have a ton to learn about the mobile DJ biz, and by no means am I perfect, and my setup may not be the cleanest... BUT....

my gawd JIM!!! The cords!!! EVERYWHERE!!! Get that man some gaffe tape stat!!

[RodneyL]

There is a DJ in my state that I always follow on youtube and check out his blog, because he seems to be on point with all of his work. Even though I have not met him, I look up to him because of the way he runs his business. He recently published this video which was great, because it's so true.


http://vimeo.com/36512839

[Ntertainment]

That video was amazing. What a great idea. Who ever shot it for him was very good! I loved the quality of it!

[DJ Headkick]

I have absolutely no experience in the Mobile DJ business, and there's obvious parody in that vid, but do some Mobile DJs really act that ridiculous? I'm just curious, what're some real life examples of mobile DJs on the ritz that you've seen that may have inspired the vid?

[Badger]

I have absolutely no experience in the Mobile DJ business, and there's obvious parody in that vid, but do some Mobile DJs really act that ridiculous? I'm just curious, what're some real life examples of mobile DJs on the ritz that you've seen that may have inspired the vid?

Many thanks to RodneyL for posting that video... I'd never seen it before and it was incredible. Heck, by the end of it, *I* wanted to hire Joe Bunn for a gig. +Rep to you for posting it.

As for whether or not people like the parodied "other DJ" really exist... Unfortunately, they do.

Over my years in the mobile DJ industry, I heard plenty of "horror stories" from clients, with subjects such as:
.

A well-known "professional" mobile service DJ who was drunk during the gig;
DJs who didn't know or didn't care about playing uncensored "adult"-language tracks during high-school and even middle-school dance.
A DJ who would use a CD changer and a remote control to change songs during the gig, so that he could stand out in front of his equipment and dance during his events.
A DJ who would weave around through the crowds at weddings with a wireless mic and talk during WAY too much of the gig.
Various other DJs who, essentially, had trouble letting go of the spotlight because they had to be focus of attention at their gigs.

.
.
But, the main story that came to mind when I saw this video was the story of "the costume guy."



Back in the 1990s, when I had been in the mobile DJ industry for a few years and I had really started to make a name for myself, I got a call from one of my competitors to welcome me to the industry. The call may have been to "feel out" his competition, or it may have been just so that I would have someone to whom I could refer my "overflow" calls. However, the guy was honest about who he was (big plus) and he was nice, so I didn't mind the conversation.

Obviously, I shouldn't name the company here, but they were one of the BIG names in our area at the time, having been in business long before I had ever gotten into the industry. For sake of the story, I'll call them "M and N Mobile Sound."

The DJ (whose name honestly escapes me at this point) was a very down-home, slightly older gentleman with a bit of a southern twang - a very "good ol' boy" type. He and I talked a lot about how we handled our gigs, and everything was cool up until he told me about his "costumes." He explained to me that in order to add more fun to his gigs, he had a set of costumes he would take to them and he would dress up in different getups at different points in the evening. I wish I could remember all of them, but I want to say that one was a clown costume, and one was a hair-metal costume... but I definitely remember him proudly telling me "I even dress up as Elvis."

The thoughts were already racing through my mind: If I were getting married or if I had a nice corporate party, would I really want some nimrod running around in different costumes, basically trying to draw all the focus on himself like a huge attention whore? No, I wouldn't.

After that point, for a short time, "M and N" still made it onto my short list of "other DJs" that people could call if we were already booked, but I think I gave customers a warning that their DJ might be a little "corny." After all, despite the "costume" thing, he did seem nice, and he did seem to know what he was talking about, and with all that experience, I was sure that he would probably, at least, provide a good sound and light system.



A year or two later, my crew and I were setting up one of my systems for a corporate holiday event in a big Tulsa hotel. We had a 10-foot triangular truss loaded down with club light effects, a 1600-watt sound system with dual 18" subwoofers, seven (!) milk crates full of vinyl and a few hundred CDs. My company, EKG Pro Mobile Music, had grown into one of the biggest and best mobile services in the area.

As we were setting up, another DJ showed up for the party across the hall. Two guys that couldn't have been more than 18 drove up in a pickup truck, with two tiny speakers and very little (if any) lights. Of course, I was observant, but I left them alone.

Then, one of them came over and very politely asked if I could help them with a mixer problem they were having. No kidding - they didn't even know all the ins and outs of their equipment. I walked over, found the problem (I think they had the external effect loop accidentally turned on, which meant no sound since there was no effect unit attached), and saved the day for them. They were very thankful, and I asked what company they were with.

"M and N Mobile Sound."

I was appalled. A major corporate client had hired M and N for their party, and that jacknuts had sent two inexperienced teens to do the job with a bare-bones system. (They didn't even bring an Elvis costume!)

When showtime came, we were rocking the house on our side of the hall, and the kids on the other side... well... weren't rocking much of anything. As the night went on, in fact, a lot of the crowd from their side of the hall started "migrating" over to our side. I met a few people from their company, gave out a business card or two, and within a few weeks of that evening, I secured their booking for the next year's holiday event.

I never referred anyone to "M and N" again. A few years later, they mercifully went out of business.



Back to the subject at hand... Yes, there are all types of DJs out there - and I'm sure that with the boom in popularity of digital DJing, the gulf has widened to include plenty more "pro DJs" with good job ethics and professionalism, as well as a ton of "pro DJs" with very poor ethics and professionalism. (After all, for the price of a laptop and a couple of speakers, anyone can pirate their way into being a "DJ" these days.)

I'd love to hear more "horror stories" and to see more "competition" pictures. :) Keep them coming!

:badger:

[carblekin]

Many thanks to RodneyL for posting that video... I'd never seen it before and it was incredible. Heck, by the end of it, *I* wanted to hire Joe Bunn for a gig. +Rep to you for posting it.

As for whether or not people like the parodied "other DJ" really exist... Unfortunately, they do.

Over my years in the mobile DJ industry, I heard plenty of "horror stories" from clients, with subjects such as...
:badger:


Wow, that's gotta be the longest reply to any post I've ever posted, this forum, or the old DJForum (R.I.P.). Thanks for sharing!




Here's a few more I've come across. I actually have some more entertaining picture's I've saved, but I can't find them at the moment. Will post them later if people want to see them.

One more craigslist ad. Unfortunately, it's not the worst I've ever seen, but not sure I would have written one this way:
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7201/6843886744_dfe773f6e5_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/6843886744/)
And a few more pictures...
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7068/6843883918_c13a6b929b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/6843883918/)

DIY DJ case. Can't say for sure, but it looks like he wrapped everything in bubble wrap...
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7065/6990011319_61201a50c2.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/6990011319/)
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7069/6990011343_0230c519e7.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/6990011343/)
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7180/6990011371_92f3de8426.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/6990011371/)

[jazzyj]

As I've said before... the main thing I keep coming across are clients who call me because I seem "normal"; whereas, they keep encountering DJ's who are rude or just plain weird.

The last lady I talked to who booked me, said she talked to one DJ who was just rude, and was like a diva. He just basically said are you going to book me or not, and didn't allow her to ask any questions. lol. Another guy played phone tag with her for awhile - he was the one really pursuing her; when she finally got on the phone with him, she thought for sure he'd have information to give her or questions about her wedding, etc. but apparently there was tons of dead air during the convo because he couldn't think of anything to ask her and was not personable at all.

I don't get these mobile dj's who are not people-persons who get into the business of DJ'ing private events where ... HELLO??? you will have to interact a LOT with people before and during the gig! I understand not all of us can be extroverts - but if you're truly that anxious around people or can't hold at least a normal chit/chat convo with a potential client, then you may want to look at another line of business.

I mean good lawd, by the time I was off the phone with the lady, I knew where she grew up, where she lives now, what she does for a living, what her soon to be husband does for a living, where her parents live, where she went to college, how they met, etc. etc. It's just part of the biz!

[Quentin Legend]

Any one know what that last song was that played in the video???

[Synaxis]

Any one know what that last song was that played in the video???

Ditto^^


Besides a few events I did for my former middle school and what not, I in no way have ever really considered myself anything more then an amateur bedroom DJ. Although I would like to get into the mobile DJ business, it's nice to know that I probably can already do a much better job then then some people as evidenced by those photos.

I mean, some things are just common sense...

[MikeLtheDJ]

Lol too funny

[MikeLtheDJ]

found it!

http://images.meez.com/user/8/6/7/2/6/3/1/8672631_bodyshot_300x400.gif

Lol.. he's all over the Raleigh CL...

Sent from my DROID RAZR using Tapatalk

[VjQue]

This one is Funny ass hell.

http://losangeles.craigslist.org/lac/evs/2907822989.html

[Quentin Legend]

Something that just looks very unprofessional to me is when a mobile DJ uses a @gmail email address.

[LiteTrix]

Something that just looks very unprofessional to me is when a mobile DJ uses a @gmail email address.


Only Gmail Email addresses?

[Quentin Legend]

Only Gmail Email addresses?

Gmail was the first that came to mind.

Gmail, Yahoo, Live etc etc all the free email addresses.

[DJNR]

Something that just looks very unprofessional to me is when a mobile DJ uses a @gmail email address.

I use my website domain as an address which then forwards to my gmail :lol:

[Quentin Legend]

I use my website domain as an address which then forwards to my gmail :lol:

That's fine, Gmail itself is not bad but it just looks unprofessional if your business email address is "Yourbusiness@gmail.com".

:)

[djscrizzle]

My primary business email is booking (at) bpmproductionsofcolorado.com - for that very reason. Precise, easy to remember, and states the purpose of any mail to and from.

[Synaxis]

My primary business email is booking (at) bpmproductionsofcolorado.com - for that very reason. Precise, easy to remember, and states the purpose of any mail to and from.

I couldn't remember your e-mail after reading it three times over. You should seriously consider shortening your domain name. Personally, as a web developer, I would never use any domain over 20 characters.

[jazzyj]

Mine is TeamJazzyJ at Gmail. Yup I use Gmail.

My domain is EJEntertainmentLLC.com... or TeamJazzyJ.com.

I haven't setup emails on either one because Ive used Gmail forever & use the calendar, docs, texting, voicemail, etc. I dont think my clients think anything of it? Could be wrong tho i guess.

[RodneyL]

Mine is TeamJazzyJ at Gmail. Yup I use Gmail.

My domain is EJEntertainmentLLC.com... or TeamJazzyJ.com.

I haven't setup emails on either one because Ive used Gmail forever & use the calendar, docs, texting, voicemail, etc. I dont think my clients think anything of it? Could be wrong tho i guess.

just forward the address jazzy@teamjazzyj.com to your gmail. Better branding.

[RodneyL]

Many thanks to RodneyL for posting that video... I'd never seen it before and it was incredible. Heck, by the end of it, *I* wanted to hire Joe Bunn for a gig. +Rep to you for posting it.

:badger:

Me too! I know he runs a company with several DJ's, but looking at his pics and following his vlog and blog, he seems to know what he is doing. Tons of amazing reviews on his wedding wire site too. He's one of those guys doing this full time and living the dream I think.


Lol.. he's all over the Raleigh CL...

Sent from my DROID RAZR using Tapatalk

That's the guy, lol. Disclaimer... I know NOTHING about him... but he also recycles the same post with the same lame graphics... not idea what he or his setup actually consists of.

[Quentin Legend]

I couldn't remember your e-mail after reading it three times over. You should seriously consider shortening your domain name. Personally, as a web developer, I would never use any domain over 20 characters.

Will be able to remember it but it is extremely long and most people won't remember it unless they focus and read it a few times (most people don't).

I'd also recommend shortening it.

[Sween]

WOW. Those are BAD! I can't really say there is anyone I know of by me with such bad photos that they would actually post (although that does not mean they are out there).

I was actually told yesterday that I was the best dressed DJ the maitre'd had seen in years... and I was just wearing black pants, white shirt, black vest, and my (new) trademark black jeff cap. No jacket. (I was afraid I was too ****** with the hat) I did not believe her... and then the DJ for the wedding in the other room walked by in a pair of jeans. This was a country club FYI...

[Sween]

But honestly... Any DJ with photos like that is NOT my competition...

My competition posts photos such as this...

http://www.cuttingedgedjs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/Aldie-1.bmp

[jazzyj]

just forward the address jazzy@teamjazzyj.com to your gmail. Better branding.

Done :) but I went with DJ at TeamJazzyJ.com instead :) and made it a catch-all so if they type in "anything" @ teamjazzyj it still goes to my gmail.

.sigh. but alas the business cards and all other printed media have the gmail :) so we'll have to wait til those run out.

[A#1 DJ]

I use inbox.com which looks more pro that the gmail or yahoo :freak:

a1dj@inbox.com :D

[Da Animal]

Here is some of my competition... In case you can't read the banner it says "The Most Advanced DJ on the Lakeshore!" which is good for a laugh or two all on its own.

http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/27725_117219934966195_117218571632998_179885_24412 94_n.jpg
http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/27725_117221301632725_117218571632998_179924_76476 8_n.jpg

[DJHoss]

"The Most Advanced DJ on the Lakeshore!"

Most advanced DJ that can burn down the place with the 6 speakers and ~14 halogen lights most likely all on one circuit in that particular advanced format.

Seriously, people like this, why even bother? I almost got a wedding booking the other week but the bride cheaped out and paid some weirdo DJ to do their wedding, turns out he had HALF the power I did(Kustom (http://www.kustom.com/product_detail.aspx?TypeID=8&FamilyID=83&ProductID=165&Tab=3) speakers and a Chinese laser), who sat down the whole evening and ate, and left his wires for everyone to see like the pics in this thread. It is terrible, the decisions people make. And if you're going to put the effort into trying to become a DJ, at least invest in the very best you can afford, and take pride in what you are doing.

I still cannot believe that he ripped them off charging $500, when originally i was going to charge $50, and provide 100X more fun. Blows my mind, people these days. :facepalm:

[Johnnotestine]

A little off topic, but seeing all these old light rigs has me thinking.

Does anyone still use and prefer any of the older style lights and if so what kinds? I know some people really like some older Martin fixtures. Is there a certain type of fixture that was just better than the LED versions? How about the chases and pars that seem to be appearing in these pics? Disco balls with pinspots?

[Defiance]

I can't believe I found this but I did. Luckily this guy isn't local to me, he would certainly blow the competition away...

http://img337.imageshack.us/img337/676/djawahl.png
http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/337/djawahl.png/
Because I felt so awful I took his number off of the ad for him.

[DJNR]

He can make big sound.




... :lol:

[RodneyL]

The kids now-a-days love big sound. It's the new craze.

[Sween]

I still cannot believe that he ripped them off charging $500, when originally i was going to charge $50, and provide 100X more fun. Blows my mind, people these days. :facepalm:

Charging $500 is a ripoff? $500 is a bargain!

And charging $50 deserves a :facepalm:

[jazzyj]

Charging $500 is a ripoff? $500 is a bargain!

And charging $50 deserves a :facepalm:

Yeah I'm thinking Hoss meant something else by his $50 statement? lol I don't think he was gonna just charge fiddy. And i think $500 would be a ripoff due to the poor quality of the other DJ. But that's how i read, i could totally be wrong.

Hoss - explain muchacho.

[DJRockinRob]

I honestly don't see the problem with these pictures or setups. Gosh you all need to relax :mad:

God Bless!

[Badger]

Most advanced DJ that can burn down the place with the 6 speakers and ~14 halogen lights most likely all on one circuit in that particular advanced format.

Unfortunately, I can't see the image from where I am right now... but, there's nothing wrong with halogen lights, as long as you don't have a ton of them turned on at the same time. Amazingly, DJs were able to run numerous halogen lights in their shows before the great LED revolution without setting venues ablaze.


Seriously, people like this, why even bother? I almost got a wedding booking the other week but the bride cheaped out and paid some weirdo DJ to do their wedding...

I still cannot believe that he ripped them off charging $500, when originally i was going to charge $50, and provide 100X more fun. Blows my mind, people these days. :facepalm:

I just want to make sure that I have this right... You were going to charge $50, he ended up getting $500, and the bride "cheaped out" and picked him? That just doesn't make sense.




turns out he had HALF the power I did(Kustom (http://www.kustom.com/product_detail.aspx?TypeID=8&FamilyID=83&ProductID=165&Tab=3) speakers and a Chinese laser)

The amount of power doesn't make a wedding reception. I've never DJed any wedding reception at which people kept demanding me to crank up the volume.

If he had an illegal Chinese laser in his show, and you're sure that it's an illegal one for which he couldn't obtain a variance... then turn him in to the FDA.

http://www.fda.gov/radiation-emittingproducts/radiationemittingproductsandprocedures/homebusinessandentertainment/ucm118907.htm



who sat down the whole evening and ate

I'm still a little puzzled... the DJ sat down the whole evening eating?

At a number of the wedding receptions that I've DJed in the past, when the hosts were gracious enough to offer to share their food, my crew and I would usually go ahead and eat... but we'd be done well before the time that the dinner music was over. That's not too terribly unusual.

The "whole evening" just sounds like gross hyperbole.

Just to clarify: Did you end up attending this party?




and left his wires for everyone to see like the pics in this thread. It is terrible, the decisions people make. And if you're going to put the effort into trying to become a DJ, at least invest in the very best you can afford, and take pride in what you are doing.

I agree that one shouldn't have wires all over the place. One should bundle them properly or use something to block/hide them; haphazard wires can make a DJ look incredibly unprofessional.





A little off topic, but seeing all these old light rigs has me thinking.

Does anyone still use and prefer any of the older style lights and if so what kinds? I know some people really like some older Martin fixtures. Is there a certain type of fixture that was just better than the LED versions? How about the chases and pars that seem to be appearing in these pics? Disco balls with pinspots?

I can't see the picture right now... but I, for one, am a much bigger fan of the earlier non-LED versions of most lights. I have a couple of LED-based lights (a pair of Chauvet Vue 3s), but all the rest of my lights (about three dozen total, not counting pin spots and lasers) are non-LED effects.

[Before anyone wonders: No, I've never set up all of my current lights as one massive light system.]

I've considered adding a few more LED lights someday, but I love the earlier light effects. Yes, they use a lot more power, and you can't have as many on at once, and the lamps can be costly to replace... but they're often brighter and more colourful. (Let's face it; some LED-only shows look like glorified Lite-Brite displays.)

:badger:

[DJHoss]

Charging $500 is a ripoff? $500 is a bargain!

And charging $50 deserves a :facepalm:

I am charging next to nothing right now to get my name out there and book some gigs as a cheap reliable DJ. I'm 14, and no one is going to pay a 14 year old DJ $500.

I have nothing against halogen lights, they just looked like they would all overload the circuit that they are on, granted the DJ might have put them on different circuits.

By cheaped out I meant I had better equipment for the price and better talent and for most of the night he sat and ate. I did not attend the party but I did have a buddy of mine who did and he gave me the full report. Not to bash on him or anything, I was just a little baffled at his setup deal, I guess.

[Sween]

I am charging next to nothing right now to get my name out there and book some gigs as a cheap reliable DJ. I'm 14, and no one is going to pay a 14 year old DJ $500.

I have nothing against halogen lights, they just looked like they would all overload the circuit that they are on, granted the DJ might have put them on different circuits.

By cheaped out I meant I had better equipment for the price and better talent and for most of the night he sat and ate. I did not attend the party but I did have a buddy of mine who did and he gave me the full report. Not to bash on him or anything, I was just a little baffled at his setup deal, I guess.

Yeah, at 14 I would not expect to book any weddings. Maybe around age 20... 18 if you're lucky. And even if you're an amateur, charging $50 makes you look terrible. Charge $300. No less... You can't even buy a plate of food at a wedding for less than $50. Charging $50 makes you look less credible.

[jazzyj]

I'm 14

wait. arent you the guy i talked to about the prius vs truck, and you live on a ranch?


True, if you're goin in and out of the city each day, i'd buy my wife something more fuel efficient too. But, since I do ranch work and need a big truck like mine, that's what I have.

yeah... you are that guy. So you have a wife, or were you just hypothetically speaking if you had a wife? I mean I know in Kentucky we got some young ones already married, but dang.

[Da Animal]

I still use some of the old lights also. I love my mirror ball with pinspots on it, just not an effect that a starball light will ever be able to duplicate correctly... There are some of the others I like yet too, but the "Most Advanced DJ" is about 20 yrs behind the rest of us in this area. He has a cute sidekick though that is actually pretty good.

[DJRockinRob]

I am charging next to nothing right now to get my name out there and book some gigs as a cheap reliable DJ. I'm 14, and no one is going to pay a 14 year old DJ $500.

I have nothing against halogen lights, they just looked like they would all overload the circuit that they are on, granted the DJ might have put them on different circuits.

By cheaped out I meant I had better equipment for the price and better talent and for most of the night he sat and ate. I did not attend the party but I did have a buddy of mine who did and he gave me the full report. Not to bash on him or anything, I was just a little baffled at his setup deal, I guess.

While that may be true. Poeple are going to look at your age and not want to book you. Myself on the other hand was 13 when I had my first wedding and it went pretty well. It wasn't till I was 15 and I was doing weddings full on.

I wasn't your average 13 yearold. I was very mature for my age and had a great demeanor. Good luck at building yourself up and God Bless!

[A#1 DJ]

an ad in my area http://shopping.rollanet.org/category/427/Help-and-Services/listings/860524/DJ-for-hire.html

[spicaly]

I am charging next to nothing right now to get my name out there and book some gigs as a cheap reliable DJ. I'm 14, and no one is going to pay a 14 year old DJ $500.

I have nothing against halogen lights, they just looked like they would all overload the circuit that they are on, granted the DJ might have put them on different circuits.

By cheaped out I meant I had better equipment for the price and better talent and for most of the night he sat and ate. I did not attend the party but I did have a buddy of mine who did and he gave me the full report. Not to bash on him or anything, I was just a little baffled at his setup deal, I guess.

please don't take offense to this, but at 14 did you buy your equipment on your own? charging $50 for a wedding I wouldn't think so... so its not fair to knock someone else who probably actually paid for their equipment themselves

besides the guy might actually not know any better... and at least he isnt messing up the game as far as pricing goes.... I was talking to a guy today that thought pyramid was the shit.... I was thinking in the back of my head, whys this guy all hyped up about flea market gear... so you never know

[DJHoss]

please don't take offense to this, but at 14 did you buy your equipment on your own? charging $50 for a wedding I wouldn't think so... so its not fair to knock someone else who probably actually paid for their equipment themselves

besides the guy might actually not know any better... and at least he isnt messing up the game as far as pricing goes.... I was talking to a guy today that thought pyramid was the shit.... I was thinking in the back of my head, whys this guy all hyped up about flea market gear... so you never know

None taken, but I actually did research and buy all the equipment I own today. I was just throwing an offer on the table, at this point a 14 yr old isnt going to make $500 off of a gig, I'll be lucky to make $200.

I just threw an offer on the table, as I don't have any packages or actual pricings yet, and I was trying to see if they would book me for a wedding or not being 14.

Yes, I am pretty mature most of the time, especially when out DJing I set the best example I can, and do everything right on the first dime. I may not have the best budget for my rig at all, but I make due with what I have and set goals on what to upgrade next.


Yeah, at 14 I would not expect to book any weddings. Maybe around age 20... 18 if you're lucky. And even if you're an amateur, charging $50 makes you look terrible. Charge $300. No less... You can't even buy a plate of food at a wedding for less than $50. Charging $50 makes you look less credible.

Thanks Sween, will take this into major consideration and rethink my plans, lol.


wait. arent you the guy i talked to about the prius vs truck, and you live on a ranch?

yeah... you are that guy. So you have a wife, or were you just hypothetically speaking if you had a wife? I mean I know in Kentucky we got some young ones already married, but dang.

Yeah I was talkin hypothetically if I had a wife. But the rest of the story is correct, ranch and truck. ed's done, permit soon enough :tup:

[Synaxis]

Permit for now, anyways :tup:


You got your permit at 14??? I'm sorry, but I think that's just a little bit to crazy.

[DJHoss]

You got your permit at 14??? I'm sorry, but I think that's just a little bit to crazy.

I'm just about 15 so drivers ed is taken care of already and permits pretty much here so I just throw it out there.

[RodneyL]

I would never in a million years hire a 14 yr old to DJ my wedding. BUT you should be able to pick up some birthday parties and stuff from kids your age, especially since your price is so low (maybe one of your school dances?). That's a good way to learn a crowd and get a lot of experience. Also, you can volunteer for charities, like Relay For Life. They almost always need a DJ at those events. Then you have some bragging rights and you can get your name out there.

Side note, not sure if mentioned yet, try to find a local DJ you respect and see if you can lend a hand on a few of his weddings. You will get the valuable experience you need for the future and he will get some free labor during setup and tear down.

[DJHoss]

I would never in a million years hire a 14 yr old to DJ my wedding. BUT you should be able to pick up some birthday parties and stuff from kids your age, especially since your price is so low (maybe one of your school dances?). That's a good way to learn a crowd and get a lot of experience. Also, you can volunteer for charities, like Relay For Life. They almost always need a DJ at those events. Then you have some bragging rights and you can get your name out there.

Side note, not sure if mentioned yet, try to find a local DJ you respect and see if you can lend a hand on a few of his weddings. You will get the valuable experience you need for the future and he will get some free labor during setup and tear down.

I intend to start on parties this summer, weddings are not up my alley. I was simply trying to pick up a gig. I have done a few school dances in the past, also, with great success.

Thanks for the tips though :tup:

[carblekin]

I think the 'Some assorted things not to tell a DJ' is entertaining, as a DJ, but I doubt any potential customers would. Maybe it's just me, but it just doesn't feel right. I like how its sitting right next to his 'OneWed Best of 2010' picture. He's also using a free Wix site, which I believe is all flash based and can't be seen on many devices.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7036/6862883604_66ff06fbcf_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/6862883604/)

[jazzyj]

I think the 'Some assorted things not to tell a DJ' is entertaining, as a DJ, but I doubt any potential customers would. Maybe it's just me, but it just doesn't feel right. I like how its sitting right next to his 'OneWed Best of 2010' picture. He's also using a free Wix site, which I believe is all flash based and can't be seen on many devices.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7036/6862883604_66ff06fbcf_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/6862883604/)



Ummm...maybe that could be on a Club DJ's site...but never never ever on a wedding/event dj's site. never. ever. just unprofessional.

[RodneyL]

Unprofessional... but so true. lol

[DJ LEVLHED]

The most advanced DJ on the lakeshore should really change that claim....that's one of the pics I was going to post as he is local to me too.....there's pics I've of some other locals too but I can't bring myself to post them.

[Da Animal]

The most advanced DJ on the lakeshore should really change that claim....that's one of the pics I was going to post as he is local to me too.....there's pics I've of some other locals too but I can't bring myself to post them.

Lol, he doesn't really affect me... I am not that into the bar scene. I have more too, but that one made me laugh simply because I don't think he could be more outdated and still make a claim like that.

[DJ Boom Bap]

And, here's how to NOT write a craigslist ad...

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7058/6987627261_01471254c2_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/6987627261/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7204/6987627231_b49c5f1ae4_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/6987627231/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7061/6987627299_9255ea68a3_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/6987627299/)

Hey these are in my neck of the woods! (No not me!) I might troll them for everyone!

[Windows 95]

You got your permit at 14??? I'm sorry, but I think that's just a little bit to crazy.Some states let rural kids get their driver's license at 14. In Nebraska you can only drive with a Licensed adult at 14. At 14 years & two months old you can get an SCP.

http://www.dmv.ne.gov/examining/overview.html

School Permit (SCP) – An SCP can be issued if such person lives a distance of one and one-half miles or more from the school he or she attends and either resides outside a city of 5,000 or more or attends a school outside a city of 5,000 or more. A person holding an SCP may operate a motor vehicle: 1) unsupervised to and from where he or she attends school and between schools of enrollment over the most direct and accessible route by the nearest highway from his or her place of residence to transport such person or any family member who resides with such person to attend duly scheduled courses of instructions and extracurricular or school-related activities at the school he or she attends; or 2) any time when accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old.

Applicants must hold an LPE or LPD for at least two months before they can apply for an SCP. They must also be at least 14 years and two months old, but younger than 16 years and three months of age to be issued an SCP. The SCP expires when the individual is 16 years and three months of age.

Before individuals can apply for a SCP they must do one of the following: 1) complete a DMV approved driver safety course and pass a written and driving test given by the driver safety course instructor, or 2) present to the Driver Licensing Staff a 50 Hour Certification form signed by a parent, guardian or licensed driver who is at least 21 years old. The 50 Hour Certification form must be obtained from the DMV.

The written and drive test may be waived if the applicant presents a Written and Drive Test Waiver form to the Driver’s Licensing Staff. This waiver form will be given to the student by the instructor upon successful completion of the DMV approved driver safety course.

If an individual presents the 50 Hour Certification form and has been isued an LPE or LPD that is valid or expired no more than one year the written test may be waived. They will be required to pass a drive test administered by Driver Licensing Staff before the SCP will be issued.

[MikeLtheDJ]

This was last night at my wife's sisters wedding in VA Beach. He did a good job as a DJ but took offense when I asked if I can give him a few pointers on the setup. All I said is that he needs to raise the speakers and clean up the wires. I could see steam coming out if his ears.

Sent from my DROID RAZR using Tapatalk

[MikeLtheDJ]

http://img.tapatalk.com/a6f82890-06d7-922e.jpg

Sent from my DROID RAZR using Tapatalk

[Sween]

^^Wouldn't you get angry if someone told you how to do your job?

[laurentkm3]

I am charging next to nothing right now to get my name out there and book some gigs as a cheap reliable DJ. I'm 14, and no one is going to pay a 14 year old DJ $500.

Charging $50 is way to little, even if you don't have experience. If you want to charge less to get your name out there, then charge 20% less or something like that.

By charging $50, you just brought your value way down. Let's say you do a wedding and charge $50 (to get your name out there). You do a good job, so the bride and groom refer you to others. Well, those others are going to expect you to DJ for $50 also. If you charge more, then they'll look somewhere else for a mobile DJ.

You're basically burning yourself (and name) by charging too little.

Just my opinion.

[RodneyL]

This was last night at my wife's sisters wedding in VA Beach. He did a good job as a DJ but took offense when I asked if I can give him a few pointers on the setup. All I said is that he needs to raise the speakers and clean up the wires. I could see steam coming out if his ears.

Sent from my DROID RAZR using Tapatalk


^^Wouldn't you get angry if someone told you how to do your job?

Agree. Unsolicited advice never helps. Mike, you don't know that person and you aren't the one who hired him for that gig.... I would have kept my mouth shut in your shoes (and just bitched about it on DJF the next day, lol).

[Badger]

Agree. Unsolicited advice never helps. Mike, you don't know that person and you aren't the one who hired him for that gig.... I would have kept my mouth shut in your shoes (and just bitched about it on DJF the next day, lol).

I don't mean to jump on the dogpile, but I agree with most of this, the main exception being the "Unsolicited advice never helps" part. I've had a case in which it genuinely did help (see below).

As a general rule, though - to paraphrase something I said in another thread recently - if you see your competition heading for the edge of a cliff, there's no need to advise them to change their course. :)

I have rarely given other mobile DJs pointers; in fact, only two instances come to mind:
.

Back in the mid-to-late 1990s, when a pair of competing DJs (a couple of kids sent out by a multi-op company) was set up across the hall from me at a hotel and couldn't get any sound out of their mixer, they nicely asked me if I could help. Luckily, I had the same mixer and was able to get them fixed up. (If I remember correctly, they had an external effects loop turned on, without any effects unit attached.)
.
Last year, when I was forced and dragged by my wife to the wedding for one of her pathetic loser friends (a pregnant bride who was regularly going outside with her buddies for smoke breaks - oh, how I wish I were kidding), the DJ was from one of Tulsa's most well-known multi-op companies, and during the "dinner music" the sound was awful, with lots of static - irritating to the point of being almost painful.

I noticed him trying in vain to fix it, so I went over, introduced myself very nicely as someone who "used to do this," and asked him if the cause might happen to be something-or-other. (I think I specifially asked him to make sure that the input was switched to "Line" instead of "Phono.") Within the matter of a minute or two, he had the issue resolved, and he was appreciative.

If it hadn't been for the fact that the issue was genuinely annoying my wife, myself, and others around us, then I wouldn't have stepped up to assist. Plus, I made sure that the assistance I was offering was only to fix a genuine problem - not just a matter of personal preference or asthetics. If the show had just looked like crap, I certainly wouldn't have given him tips on how to look better. :)


:badger:

[Disclaimer: Not all of my wife's friends are pathetic losers, but those who are... oh, boy... it's as if they actually put effort into it.]

[Sween]

Badger, all of your examples seem to be clearly warranted. DJ in trouble... offer help. Problem gets fixed, DJ is happy.

But if someone came over to me in the middle of a gig, introduced himself as a DJ, and then proceeded to point out cosmetic defects in my setup I think I'd lose my shit.

People don't like criticism. Even when they ask for it, they usually get offended when you are honest with them.

[RodneyL]

I agree w/ Sween. Badger, you were trying to help out someone in trouble, both times. It's like seeing a guy with a flat tire, and pulling over to see if you can help him out. That's a classy move. The wrong thing to do would be seeing a guy driving a beat up Pinto with a homemade paint job and yelling out, "yo dude, you really need to get a professional paint job and maybe some new hub caps".

Usually if people aren't asking for advice, they don't want advice.

[Da Animal]

How about the guy that comes over and introduces himself as the "dj from next door"? He proceeded to tell me to drop Spice Girls next because he had them all crashing the dance floor for it when he played it just a little bit ago... Gave him the nod and said I would see while silently giving my partner the look to escort this ass away from me. If he had them crashing the dance floor then why were they all at my bar dancing to my shit? This is how I see other dj's that come and tell me how I must do things, if you were so rocking they wouldn't be knocking at my door.

No problem with others if I am having a problem and they come and offer assistance, to me that is separate from telling someone how to do their job or to clean up their mess and I can be much nicer.

[Badger]

Badger, all of your examples seem to be clearly warranted. DJ in trouble... offer help. Problem gets fixed, DJ is happy.

But if someone came over to me in the middle of a gig, introduced himself as a DJ, and then proceeded to point out cosmetic defects in my setup I think I'd lose my shit.

People don't like criticism. Even when they ask for it, they usually get offended when you are honest with them.

I apologize if there was any confusion... I definitely agree with that. I'd get pissed if someone came over and told me what "looked" bad in my show as well! We're on the same page there, and if I gave the impression that we weren't, then I'm sorry.


I agree w/ Sween. Badger, you were trying to help out someone in trouble, both times. It's like seeing a guy with a flat tire, and pulling over to see if you can help him out. That's a classy move.

Well, thank you. :D


The wrong thing to do would be seeing a guy driving a beat up Pinto with a homemade paint job and yelling out, "yo dude, you really need to get a professional paint job and maybe some new hub caps".

Oh, I definitely understand, and I agree totally with this!

:badger:

[Synaxis]

:)

296

[MikeLtheDJ]

I see what you guys are saying. And maybe if I said to you that the way I said it was not "Hey, raise your speakers and clean up". The way I said it was, This is a fairly large room what I would do is raise the speakers. It will help with the sound projecting further and you won't have to turn them up as much to get the same volume. I was supper nice about it, I'm in no shape a stuck up DJ. I didn't think I said anything I would not appreciate as a pointer to improve my set up. Over the years I've learned to humble myself and listen to others.

Also he was aware that I was coming to the wedding before we where introduced to each other.

[RodneyL]

I see what you guys are saying. And maybe if I said to you that the way I said it was not "Hey, raise your speakers and clean up". The way I said it was, This is a fairly large room what I would do is raise the speakers. It will help with the sound projecting further and you won't have to turn them up as much to get the same volume. I was supper nice about it, I'm in no shape a stuck up DJ. I didn't think I said anything I would not appreciate as a pointer to improve my set up. Over the years I've learned to humble myself and listen to others.

Also he was aware that I was coming to the wedding before we where introduced to each other.

A good passive aggressive move would have been to suggest he sign up for DJF and then let us all rip in to his pics when he posts them, lol.

[doveroh]

I have seen a lot of djs but the worst wad at a company party and the dj played "smack that" and he was singing to the song and smacking it down below. Wow was the crowd turned off. I don't think he is getting hired by them again.

[MikeLtheDJ]

A good passive aggressive move would have been to suggest he sign up for DJF and then let us all rip in to his pics when he posts them, lol.

Yeah... lol

Sent from my DROID RAZR using Tapatalk

[DYM]

I am charging next to nothing right now to get my name out there and book some gigs as a cheap reliable DJ. I'm 14, and no one is going to pay a 14 year old DJ $500.

......I did not attend the party but I did have a buddy of mine who did and he gave me the full report. Not to bash on him or anything, I was just a little baffled at his setup deal, I guess.

This makes me sick.... makes me feel pity for some others.... THIS is the reason the wide range of mobile DJ's exist.

Best thing I can tell you is learn, DJF is a great place to do so!

And don't be so skeptical... maybe no one is paying you that $500... but work your way up the respectable way and they will.

I am not bashing your age. Trust me, people know me from DJF 1.0 as the 14 year old DJ. If your looking for tips, PM me.

[Sween]

:)

296

Very funny.

[carblekin]

A few more for you


Hire this guy, unless you're racist
http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6109/6877802604_2c13b6330a_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/76624880@N06/6877802604/)


"Johny G's DJ Service, Your "Spot" for entertainment" REALLY???
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7128/7023903689_4ab0222b79_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/76624880@N06/7023903689/)

[DJRockinRob]

A few more for you


Hire this guy, unless you're racist
http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6109/6877802604_2c13b6330a_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/76624880@N06/6877802604/)


"Johny G's DJ Service, Your "Spot" for entertainment" REALLY???
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7128/7023903689_4ab0222b79_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/76624880@N06/7023903689/)



Have nothing better to do then pick on someone? SMH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!

[Sween]

Why would you ever liken your services to a Johnny on the Spot???? :toilet:

DJRockinRob... you seem defensive. Are you afraid we're gonna pick on your Craigslist ad?

Why would you defend someone who has an ad saying "Hire me unless you're racist"? Totally uncalled for, and would never be said by a true professional.

[carblekin]

Have nothing better to do then pick on someone? SMH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!



I don't mean to offend or pick on anyone, when I started this thread I thought it would be both entertaining and educational. My favorite thread by far on DJF is the " Post your Mobile DJ Gig PICS v2.0!" thread (Thanks for getting it started up again, Shay!) because it gives me some great ideas of what I could do with my system, and it's just really fun to see what other people have done.

Similarly, Awful pics are both entertaining to look at, and shows what not to do.

On the old DJF, someone had posted a link to http://nothanksdj.wordpress.com/ , great site if you'd like to see more pictures like this:

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7108/6878095390_3f548f2755.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/6878095390/)

[DJRockinRob]

Excuse Sween but I am not afraid your gonna pick on my craigslist ad. All I'm saying is we pretty much bashed this subject and people pretty much have a good idea on what not to post on craigslist. Instead we should all be thinking of new ways to improve our business instead of going on craigslist and finding every cockinpicken ad we can find that we don't agree with.

However I'll agree tha the racist ad is very obscene and could be considered worth while pointing out but at the same time you notice that nobody on that ad left there phone number or any immediate contact info. That should be a clue right there that the person is simply spamming on craigslist.

Happy Holidays!

[Al Poulin]

I don't mean to offend or pick on anyone, when I started this thread I thought it would be both entertaining and educational. My favorite thread by far on DJF is the " Post your Mobile DJ Gig PICS v2.0!" thread (Thanks for getting it started up again, Shay!) because it gives me some great ideas of what I could do with my system, and it's just really fun to see what other people have done.

Similarly, Awful pics are both entertaining to look at, and shows what not to do.

On the old DJF, someone had posted a link to http://nothanksdj.wordpress.com/ , great site if you'd like to see more pictures like this:

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7108/6878095390_3f548f2755.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/6878095390/)


That is indeed a great site! Thanks for sharing. I had quite a few laughs...

Al

[Synaxis]

[SIZE=4]
I don't mean to offend or pick on anyone, when I started this thread I thought it would be both entertaining and educational. My favorite thread by far on DJF is the " Post your Mobile DJ Gig PICS v2.0!" thread (Thanks for getting it started up again, Shay!) because it gives me some great ideas of what I could do with my system, and it's just really fun to see what other people have done.

Similarly, Awful pics are both entertaining to look at, and shows what not to do.

On the old DJF, someone had posted a link to http://nothanksdj.wordpress.com/ , great site if you'd like to see more pictures like this:


Thanks for the site. Had a few good laughs, haha!

[fat8ack]

Something that just looks very unprofessional to me is when a mobile DJ uses a @gmail email address.

It is an email, what difference does it make I mean seriously. That is the last thing I would think about hiring a DJ.

[RodneyL]

It is an email, what difference does it make I mean seriously. That is the last thing I would think about hiring a DJ.

Less of a DJ suggestion and more of a business owner suggestion. A branded email address does two things, it sends traffic to your website and also shows that you are a professional business and don't just use a "free" services.

No one says you can't use gmail, just setup your web email address and forward to your gmail service. Easy stuff, as long as you own a website.

[fat8ack]

That's fine, Gmail itself is not bad but it just looks unprofessional if your business email address is "Yourbusiness@gmail.com".

:)

I stand corrected.....I use my gmail for international business and not one person has ever not mail me back for my address.

[fat8ack]

Less of a DJ suggestion and more of a business owner suggestion. A branded email address does two things, it sends traffic to your website and also shows that you are a professional business and don't just use a "free" services.

No one says you can't use gmail, just setup your web email address and forward to your gmail service. Easy stuff, as long as you own a website.

Again, I stand corrected. :)

[RodneyL]

I stand corrected.....I use my gmail for international business and not one person has ever not mail me back for my address.

I understand. I doubt many, if any, people don't get contacts due to a gmail account. I think it was just mentioned in the overall context of brand promotion and business decisions.

[fat8ack]

Wow, that's gotta be the longest reply to any post I've ever posted, this forum, or the old DJForum (R.I.P.). Thanks for sharing!




Here's a few more I've come across. I actually have some more entertaining picture's I've saved, but I can't find them at the moment. Will post them later if people want to see them.

One more craigslist ad. Unfortunately, it's not the worst I've ever seen, but not sure I would have written one this way:
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7201/6843886744_dfe773f6e5_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/6843886744/)
And a few more pictures...
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7068/6843883918_c13a6b929b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/6843883918/)

DIY DJ case. Can't say for sure, but it looks like he wrapped everything in bubble wrap...
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7065/6990011319_61201a50c2.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/6990011319/)
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7069/6990011343_0230c519e7.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/6990011343/)
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7180/6990011371_92f3de8426.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/6990011371/)



Homemade gear racks look like complete shite......even more so covered in bubble wrap.

[kipperj]

http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=318596608205648

Will someone please read this and look at this guy's page and tell me if I'm wrong for thinking it's complete garbage?

[fat8ack]

http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=318596608205648

Will someone please read this and look at this guy's page and tell me if I'm wrong for thinking it's complete garbage?

Border line....Cool concept, laid back fun DJ, but I would be worried he would act a fool, because he kind of does in his FAQ. But it may fit to the certain clients personality and type of entertainment they are looking for.

[DJ LEar]

http://i1163.photobucket.com/albums/q551/Sneakypete67/photo1.jpg http://i1163.photobucket.com/albums/q551/Sneakypete67/photo2.jpg Attended a fundraiser this weekend.

[Quentin Legend]

Less of a DJ suggestion and more of a business owner suggestion. A branded email address does two things, it sends traffic to your website and also shows that you are a professional business and don't just use a "free" services.

No one says you can't use gmail, just setup your web email address and forward to your gmail service. Easy stuff, as long as you own a website.

This is exactly what I meant ---^


I stand corrected.....I use my gmail for international business and not one person has ever not mail me back for my address.

Depends on your client, but when I'm looking at a business card or any other type of advertisement and I see the contact email address is a Gmail, Live or Yahoo (etc etc) I instantly either think its a small business, the marketing manager is inexperienced or the business owner is a cheapskate.

Maybe not that extreme but it just looks professional when your account is Yourname@Businessname.com instead of Yourname@gmail.com ...

a Domain also costs next to nothing so there really isn't a reason not to have your own business domain.

(I'm looking at this from a Marketing perspective, I'm a DJ as well as the Marketing Manager for our Mobile DJ Business.)

But each to his own I guess :)

[Johnnotestine]

http://i1163.photobucket.com/albums/q551/Sneakypete67/photo1.jpg http://i1163.photobucket.com/albums/q551/Sneakypete67/photo2.jpg Attended a fundraiser this weekend.

Wow! Look at his speaker stand. I think he might want to open that up just a little more.

[djscrizzle]

Wow! Look at his speaker stand. I think he might want to open that up just a little more.

I thought the same just now! That kid on either side of the dancefloor would have been BONED if either speaker came down for some reason.
Personally, I like to get my stands rock solid and the legs spread out before I even think of loading them down. Come to think of it, I bet he had trouble getting them up there because the stands would flop around n try to fall over any time he touched em.

PS: would it kill any of em to practice good cable management?

[carblekin]

Chicken suit, DJ is in a Michigan t-shirt at a wedding, and a giant banner for his company. Did I miss anything?
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7240/6907483166_7921c3bcb3_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/6907483166/)

This was on a website for a consulting company which also does DJ work
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7209/6907483200_b6942d3e73_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/6907483200/)\

and lights
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7258/6907483220_8376c8410a.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/6907483220/)

[carblekin]

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5272/6907578066_f9ab786693_b.jpg

It says:

HI MY NAME IS LEVIR AND I GO BY DJ SAHARA I PLAY RAP AND HIP HOP TECHNO HOUSE FREESTYLE DANCE MUSIC ALSO ARABIC AND UR CDS . IF U HAVE A LIST FOR ME TO PLAY I CAN DO THAT I CAN PLAY ANY MUSIC THAT U REQUEST IN ADVANCE. I HAVE BEEN DJYING FOR 8 YEARS -----------------I CHARGE 250.00 A NIGHT AND UP NIGHT IS LIKE 4-5 HOURS IT DEPENDS ON OCCASION LOCATION MONTH DAY AND TIME.
(http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/6907578066/)

[carblekin]

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7108/7081797445_99eae47f3c_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/7081797445/)

[djscrizzle]

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7108/7081797445_99eae47f3c_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/7081797445/)

What the F**K is that?!

[Sween]

What the F**K is that?!


Looks like this DJ's setup:

http://nogoodforme.filmstills.org/images/wicket.jpg

[RodneyL]

Chicken suit, DJ is in a Michigan t-shirt at a wedding, and a giant banner for his company. Did I miss anything?
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7240/6907483166_7921c3bcb3_c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/6907483166/)

This was on a website for a consulting company which also does DJ work
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7209/6907483200_b6942d3e73_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/6907483200/)\

and lights
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7258/6907483220_8376c8410a.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/6907483220/)



I agree with all the criticisms, but it looks like they enjoyed the chicken suit during the chicken dance... hard to argue when people are having fun.

[Drewbdo]

I agree with all the criticisms, but it looks like they enjoyed the chicken suit during the chicken dance... hard to argue when people are having fun.

Maybe the groom met his bride while dressed as a mascot for the local fried chicken restaurant? Reliving "love at first sight". lol :love:

The note about glass was hard to read. :freak:

The light stand looks like one of the arms is about ready to snap off. Don't want to be standing under it when it goes! :teef:

[Interracial Tea]

I haven't read the entire thread, but is this the 'POST TERRIBLE ADS FROM OTHER DJS' thread? Also, I just saw a Craigslist ad that used the same pictures from the first post to prove the point that $150 DJs aren't any good.

[DJNR]

Looks like this DJ's setup:

http://nogoodforme.filmstills.org/images/wicket.jpg

:lol:

[carblekin]

I haven't read the entire thread, but is this the 'POST TERRIBLE ADS FROM OTHER DJS' thread? Also, I just saw a Craigslist ad that used the same pictures from the first post to prove the point that $150 DJs aren't any good.

Found the craigslist ad...

http://sandiego.craigslist.org/csd/evs/2962046287.html

and yes, he did just take the first 6 pictures from this thread. I'm a little disappointed, I meant for this to be for DJF eyes only, NOT to be used for advertising. I would hate for a craigslist DJ to come across his own pictures, possibly with him shown in person (like in the Whit's End photo) when looking at his craigslist competition, but all the pictures I posted are from Michigan DJs, and this guy is in California.

[carblekin]

... on a slightly similar subject, when looking for the guy using the pictures from this thread on his craigslist ad in San Diego, I also found this guy. He is using this picture on his website:

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7279/7093857803_ee2b68259b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/7093857803/)

[Sween]

Found the craigslist ad...

http://sandiego.craigslist.org/csd/evs/2962046287.html



Ummm... did he actually POST a screenshot of him writing his own false review for himself??? That photo is a shot of someone SUBMITTING a review...

:facepalm:


http://i1232.photobucket.com/albums/ff376/fatramiro/30440723.jpg

[Da Animal]

Frickin douchebaggery is all that is. Chances are though if he is still advertising on Craigslist, he is still playing for peanuts and needed all of us to do his work for him.

[DJNR]

... on a slightly similar subject, when looking for the guy using the pictures from this thread on his craigslist ad in San Diego, I also found this guy. He is using this picture on his website:

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7279/7093857803_ee2b68259b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/7093857803/)

Ewww.....

[djscrizzle]

Found the craigslist ad...

http://sandiego.craigslist.org/csd/evs/2962046287.html

and yes, he did just take the first 6 pictures from this thread. I'm a little disappointed, I meant for this to be for DJF eyes only, NOT to be used for advertising. I would hate for a craigslist DJ to come across his own pictures, possibly with him shown in person (like in the Whit's End photo) when looking at his craigslist competition, but all the pictures I posted are from Michigan DJs, and this guy is in California.


It got flagged by me for multiple copyright violations.

[LiteTrix]

Ummm... did he actually POST a screenshot of him writing his own false review for himself??? That photo is a shot of someone SUBMITTING a review...

:facepalm:


http://i1232.photobucket.com/albums/ff376/fatramiro/30440723.jpg

hahaha. What a idiot. You can't help the stupid!

[Dr. Nadon]

I'm currently DJing for a some prom night (got a 2h break while everyone is eating so I jumped on DJF) and read this thread to see that many people talk about cable management. To be honest, my setup looks a lot like many of the pictures I've seen posted on this thread so I kind of feel bad about myself right now hahaha (thanks guys :P)

What exactly do you mean by cable management? What are the best ways to hide them so my setup doesn't look so unprofessional?

[Synaxis]

I'm currently DJing for a some prom night (got a 2h break while everyone is eating so I jumped on DJF) and read this thread to see that many people talk about cable management. To be honest, my setup looks a lot like many of the pictures I've seen posted on this thread so I kind of feel bad about myself right now hahaha (thanks guys :P)

What exactly do you mean by cable management? What are the best ways to hide them so my setup doesn't look so unprofessional?

What we mean, is that you need to "manage" your cables, hence the term "cable management."

Basically, just don't have wires running all over the place.

Wires look ugly, so try to hide them as much as possible, use Velcro straps to tie them along speaker poles/trusses, and overall just try to keep your cables out of sight.

Use gaft tape if you need to run cables along walking areas, and you know, just make it look nice. It also helps to have mostly black cables. Seeing an orange extension cord running all over your equipment does NOT look good or professional.

[Dr. Nadon]

Well I understood the idea of hiding them, I just couldn't think of any way of doing it.

Will have to buy some tape and velcro straps I guess, thanks for the info!

Also, if you really do have too long a cable for what you need, my best bet would be to roll it up, right? Then where would you place the roll for it to be the least visible?

[Ntertainment]

I always place extra cable under the table. If u were to look under my table right now youd see a mess! But that's why it's out of sight out of mind. You'd also see my computer bag. But it's really dark in here and all my cables are black.

[Drewbdo]

Wires look ugly, so try to hide them as much as possible, use Velcro straps to tie them along speaker poles/trusses, and overall just try to keep your cables out of sight.

Use gaft tape if you need to run cables along walking areas, and you know, just make it look nice. It also helps to have mostly black cables. Seeing an orange extension cord running all over your equipment does NOT look good or professional.

I use the velcro strap I roll up my cords with to strap the cords to the speaker pole a foot or so below the speaker, on the back side of the pole (from the audience... so I can see the cords, but the audience can't). I then have a small strip of 2" wide gaff tape I leave stuck to the legs of the tripod... I peel the tape off, and use it to tape the cords to the lower part of the speaker pole and another piece to tape it to the tripod leg. This "manages" or controls and hides the cords all the way to the floor.

I leave the tape stuck to the poles even at the end of the gig, when I put them back in the carry bags. It is faster than constantly tearing off a new piece of tape for every gig (and saves tape). Gaff tape doesn't leave adhesive behind, unlike duct tape. It's much more expensive than duct tape, but worth it.

Like Synaxis said, hide your excess under your table, or behind your DJ facade, if you use one. When I do a wedding, I have a Mixdeck (or the 1200's) in a case, and a separate SKB slant top box with a mixer and DMX control on a 6' table, and I usually use a black, floor length tablecloth. My bins, excess cords, and sub cabinet are under the table. It's a mess, but it's out of sight, unless you lift the cloth.

If I'm just doing a small event, I use an X-stand, and put a 2'x4'x3/4" plywood sheet on top, as a tabletop. I covered this board with black vinyl (from Wal-Mart fabric department). I drape this with a black tablecloth, and again, all bins go underneath. There is no room for my sub, so I only use this for small setups.

We all start with crappy, ugly setups, but with a little effort (and some photos here on DJF :D), we don't have to stay with ugly setups! :)

[RodneyL]

Great tips here fellas. Hope Nadon uses such great advice to make his setup look clean!

[RodneyL]

My wife shot a wedding this weekend, I was out of town doing a different one so I had to pass up this job, and this was the DJ they hired. Face and phone # blurred to protect myself, lol.

His ceremony setup for the beach... running to a single speaker on a tripod on the beach.
http://i.imgur.com/07IQk.jpg

His reception setup.
http://i.imgur.com/xqNDM.jpg

And yes, he wore the denim shirt and jeans throughout the entire event. She said he got their first dance song wrong, the bride called out "wrong song!" from the dance floor. He stopped it, started another song, that was ALSO wrong, then started the correct song... but over top the wrong song already playing. She also said you could not understand him over his mic. His "speaker" sound like it was blown.

Made me feel bad that I was already booked and couldn't do their wedding... but Im just one dude after all.

[carblekin]

Here are a few more...

winning:
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7216/7162421920_0e96341560_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/7162421920/)


Leasars:
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7105/7162422198_b3958cdafb_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/7162422198/)


This guy charges just $750 for your 6 hour reception. If you want more time, it's just $950. I think I need to move:
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7237/7162467988_caec5dcecc_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/7162467988/) http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5464/7162422132_0bdd5dae62.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/7162422132/) http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7230/7162422046_6e46e6dd6f.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/7162422046/)

[djscrizzle]

Here are a few more...

winning:
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7216/7162421920_0e96341560_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/7162421920/)


Leasars:
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7105/7162422198_b3958cdafb_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/7162422198/)


This guy charges just $750 for your 6 hour reception. If you want more time, it's just $950. I think I need to move:
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7237/7162467988_caec5dcecc_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/7162467988/) http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5464/7162422132_0bdd5dae62.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/7162422132/) http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7230/7162422046_6e46e6dd6f.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/7162422046/)

:puke:thats just a bunch of horrible setups!

[brawny]

This thread for the win! Big ego boost for me!

[Burt Bacharach]

This thread for the win! Big ego boost for me!Haha agreed. Total feel good thread (unless you came across a picture of yourself...)

[STLRiverCity]

I saw this in another hall this Saturday. Except for the computer he is setup and ready to run.

http://www.bestrivercitydj.com/djfpics/IMG_0847.jpg

[bumpyjonas]

Wow speechless

[djscrizzle]

I saw this in another hall this Saturday. Except for the computer he is setup and ready to run.

http://www.bestrivercitydj.com/djfpics/IMG_0847.jpg

That's gotta be a cheap-o guy. $300 tops!
If he's charging more, the booking parties are getting ripped off.

[akela]

I saw this in another hall this Saturday. Except for the computer he is setup and ready to run.

http://www.bestrivercitydj.com/djfpics/IMG_0847.jpg

Looks like an old-school Peavey CS 800 amplifier. I will give props to the guy for running that!

[wilson]

I wonder what customers think when they walk in and see these 'setups'?

[kipperj]

I wonder what customers think when they walk in and see these 'setups'?

:banghead: for being so stupid... then :facepalm: from the guests watching the first part.

[STLRiverCity]

Looks like an old-school Peavey CS 800 amplifier. I will give props to the guy for running that!

It was. My guess is the guy didn't know what he had. He probably bought it in a pawn shop with the rest of his gear.

[RodneyL]

I dont know why I get enjoyment from seeing these pictures... it must say something negative about my character. lol. I have some downtime at work so I googled "good wedding dj setups"... here are some results! I think a few were "ironic" but some seriously thought these were display worthy on their websites.

http://i.imgur.com/iuUXal.jpg

http://mobiledjhouston.com/images/dj_setuplg.gif

http://www.djjer.com/Portals/18827/images/bad%20dj%20setup.jpg

http://essentialsoundsdj.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Bad-DJ-Setup.jpg

[jazzyj]

I mean I don't have a facade, and still use a table with a black cloth, but the cords man... gaffe tape is NOT that expensive!!! why oh why?

[Rek_Aviles]

That is indeed a great site! Thanks for sharing. I had quite a few laughs...

Al

Agreed, great site!



:lol:
http://nothanksdj.files.wordpress.com/2011/08/uplight.jpg?w=640

[Synaxis]

I mainly DJ just for fun and in no way consider myself a professional.

But seeing some of these pictures here gives me a sense of pride that my pathetic little setup looks so much better then some of the ridiculous stuff here :tup:

[Rdej47]

I know the line "it's all about the music gets thrown around a lot" but this is a case where you need professionalism and quality presentation equal to or even more then your skills. Good to see there's a place like this where people can learn how to handle their business in a professional manner.

[bumpyjonas]

Simple fix in most cases buy a facade, velcro ties, and gaffe tape. All too often some new dj's rush to get various equipment and neglect the basics. A good facade and a table should be part of the initial mobile dj setup purchase.

[rec]

I am 49yrs old and DJing for the second time in my life. This site has provided so much knowledge to me over the last 3-4 yrs. Thanks to all.
Now on to my post.....First I agree that these people do no depict what the majority(present company included) of professional DJ's think is an acceptable equipment setup. Not sure I really consider myself a professional, although I try my best to make my setup as clean as possible. I do think that some of these DJ's may not know or have never been exposed to a "clean" set up. I think back to the 80's in my first stint of DJing and I have to be honest that a fold out table with my turntables and vinyl sitting on top was my standard setup with amps and such on the floor below the table. I never had a table skirt or cable management. I also had all the DJ work that I could stand. Strictly thru word of mouth and repeat business. Personality plays a huge part in success, and it is possible that even with the cleanest setup and best equipment some of these people still may not be successful. Not necessarily their fault as we are all dealt a personality at birth and that is what we have to work with. Some are more innovative than others, what seems wrong to one person my seem the norm to another. So I guess what I am saying is that we should not be too hard on these people, help them out if we can and dont bust on em too hard. Maybe what they have is all they can afford. Hopefully they will improve with time.
Peace

[Al Poulin]

A video I took on Saturday night of my newest compact setup. Not the fanciest, but I do make every effort for it to look as clean as possible.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8xjq-Xjhj4s

Al

[Synaxis]

PrimeCuts just posted this on their Facebook page, thought I would share.

http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/179500_10150912886419774_91903494773_9577564_96677 5837_n.jpg (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10150912886419774&set=a.245363269773.136843.91903494773&type=1&ref=nf)

[sse]

PrimeCuts just posted this on their Facebook page, thought I would share.



That could be shocking

[bumpyjonas]

Speechless


Taptalking with the IPhone...

[DJWhiteChoco]

just found this site googling "wedding dj setups"

http://nothanksdj.wordpress.com/

[djscrizzle]

just found this site googling "wedding dj setups"

http://nothanksdj.wordpress.com/

Been posted up before... :tup: Always like heading over to 'No Thanks Deejay' and seeing uber crappy n messy setups for a ego boost.

[DJWhiteChoco]

my bad...

[Sween]

PrimeCuts just posted this on their Facebook page, thought I would share.

http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/179500_10150912886419774_91903494773_9577564_96677 5837_n.jpg (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10150912886419774&set=a.245363269773.136843.91903494773&type=1&ref=nf)

This is Priceless...

[DJRoladecks]

PrimeCuts just posted this on their Facebook page, thought I would share.

http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/179500_10150912886419774_91903494773_9577564_96677 5837_n.jpg (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10150912886419774&set=a.245363269773.136843.91903494773&type=1&ref=nf)

Please tell me this is Photoshoped! Could be looking at the next recipient of a Darwin Award. I personally like how the lit and unlit (couldn't be by shorting now could it) x-mas lights dangle in the water.

[JPelli73]

Accident waiting to happen. Even if everything is up and running now, what happens when someone cannonballs into the other end of the pool and the wave swamps the gear?

[Sween]

Accident waiting to happen. Even if everything is up and running now, what happens when someone cannonballs into the other end of the pool and the wave swamps the gear?

I would PAY to see that. DJ freaking out as he sees the wave coming.... Slow motion "nooooooo"... then a few sparks, maybe a little smoke, DJ seizures from the shock... and then darkness as the breaker trips. And then maybe a few crying kids in the darkness...

[windspeed36]

I would PAY to see that. DJ freaking out as he sees the wave coming.... Slow motion "nooooooo"... then a few sparks, maybe a little smoke, DJ seizures from the shock... and then darkness as the breaker trips. And then maybe a few crying kids in the darkness...
Well you're nice...
















:lol:

[Synaxis]

Here is another one:

Definitely "not" the right way...

http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/s720x720/223811_10151020760891085_1983029018_n.jpg (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151020760891085&set=a.86793761084.101116.86785941084&type=1&ref=nf)

[Drewbdo]

Here is another one:

Definitely "not" the right way...

http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/s720x720/223811_10151020760891085_1983029018_n.jpg (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151020760891085&set=a.86793761084.101116.86785941084&type=1&ref=nf)

Captions for the photo...

1. High dollar tent, professional photographer, & DMX uplighting left only $200 in the budget for a DJ. But, at least the DJ brought a "hazer / speaker combo" to enhance the moving head lights.

2. "No ma'am, I don't carry liability insurance, but I do carry fire insurance."

3. "We don't offer a photo booth, but you can make s'mores on our portable fireplace."

4. Meanwhile... at the Annual Firemen's Ball...

:D

[Synaxis]

1. High dollar tent, professional photographer, & DMX uplighting left only $200 in the budget for a DJ. But, at least the DJ brought a "hazer / speaker combo" to enhance the moving head lights.


http://i116.photobucket.com/albums/o23/bananrullekake/Emoticon/clapping.gif

[RodneyL]

Holy Jeebus at that last pic!

[Evolved]

Wow, that's gotta be the longest reply to any post I've ever posted, this forum, or the old DJForum (R.I.P.). Thanks for sharing!




Here's a few more I've come across. I actually have some more entertaining picture's I've saved, but I can't find them at the moment. Will post them later if people want to see them.

One more craigslist ad. Unfortunately, it's not the worst I've ever seen, but not sure I would have written one this way:
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7201/6843886744_dfe773f6e5_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/6843886744/)
And a few more pictures...
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7068/6843883918_c13a6b929b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/6843883918/)

DIY DJ case. Can't say for sure, but it looks like he wrapped everything in bubble wrap...
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7065/6990011319_61201a50c2.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/6990011319/)
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7069/6990011343_0230c519e7.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/6990011343/)
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7180/6990011371_92f3de8426.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/6990011371/)




It is my opinion and has been for ages that sheets of any kind. No matter how cleanly distributed are ugly. It is just my opinion. the way they are shrouded over speaker stand poles and what not. That doesn't work for me. But these photos make even those look good!

Keep in mind though these guys are probably new and don't have a lot of money and their make-shift consoles and such are what they got. So if your going to post these things its probably a good idea to post competitors that are in your league though I can understand the comical value.

[nat1ve]

HAHA some of these made me LOL... others made me cringe ><

[RodneyL]

Here is another one:

Definitely "not" the right way...

http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/s720x720/223811_10151020760891085_1983029018_n.jpg (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151020760891085&set=a.86793761084.101116.86785941084&type=1&ref=nf)

I be that dance floor rental cost more than that DJ did.

[Al Poulin]

Here is another one:

Definitely "not" the right way...

http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/s720x720/223811_10151020760891085_1983029018_n.jpg (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151020760891085&set=a.86793761084.101116.86785941084&type=1&ref=nf)



DISCO INFERNO ? :lol:

[bumpyjonas]

Wow nasty...


Taptalking with the IPhone...

[FireyFate]

Here is another one:

Definitely "not" the right way...

http://sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/s720x720/223811_10151020760891085_1983029018_n.jpg (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151020760891085&set=a.86793761084.101116.86785941084&type=1&ref=nf)

Great scott, Marty! You drove the DeLorean right through my speaker!

[carblekin]

It is my opinion and has been for ages that sheets of any kind. No matter how cleanly distributed are ugly. It is just my opinion. the way they are shrouded over speaker stand poles and what not. That doesn't work for me. But these photos make even those look good!

Keep in mind though these guys are probably new and don't have a lot of money and their make-shift consoles and such are what they got. So if your going to post these things its probably a good idea to post competitors that are in your league though I can understand the comical value.

Ok, ok. Fair enough. Here's a competitor's setup:

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7080/7187781195_1089d0aacf_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/7187781195/)

That's kinda boring though, isn't it? Plus the thread is named "How NOT to run your mobile DJ business". I'd rather post pics like this wedding DJ:

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7240/7187795407_63e7dd3489_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/7187795407/)

[DJ Higgumz]

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7240/7187795407_63e7dd3489_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/7187795407/)

look at his eqs! if it looks good it sounds good right? dressed for the event too i must add. give him props on the mixer though!

[Synaxis]

look at his eqs! if it looks good it sounds good right? dressed for the event too i must add. give him props on the mixer though!

He has a max of three inputs. I feel that the mixer is a bit overkill for this event.

[Sween]

look at his eqs! if it looks good it sounds good right? dressed for the event too i must add. give him props on the mixer though!

First thing I noticed too... EQ's do nothing for sound... they are for show, and it looks cooler to zigzag them!

[Sween]

He has a max of three inputs. I feel that the mixer is a bit overkill for this event.

Maybe that was before the band showed up???

[Synaxis]

Maybe that was before the band showed up???

There was a band? Can't really tell from the picture :/

[Sween]

There was a band? Can't really tell from the picture :/

You can never be too prepared... I hate it when a surprise band shows up and I only have an 8 channel mixer!!

[Synaxis]

You can never be too prepared... I hate it when a surprise band shows up and I only have an 8 channel mixer!!

Ahh, ok, I got you. Better to be over prepared than under prepared :tup:

[akela]

Rotflmfao!!!!


great scott, marty! You drove the delorean right through my speaker!

[azcatman]

Just read through this whole thread, and the main thing that I want to say is...

...the song at the end of the Joe Bunn video is 'Start; Restart' by the Urbanites.

You can find it on iTunes. Or listen to it here for the time being: http://grooveshark.com/#!/search/song?q=Urbanites+Start%3B+Restart

Now let's see some more photos of setups with a mess of cords, DJs in jeans and sitting down, and horribly old and cheap gear.

[SockoPro]

Ok, ok. Fair enough. Here's a competitor's setup:

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7080/7187781195_1089d0aacf_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/7187781195/)




What is wrong with this setup?

I think it looks perfect. The lights are evenly space, cable management looks good. Not everyone likes facades and being lit up by the back lighting for them, myself included.

[Sween]

What is wrong with this setup?

I think it looks perfect. The lights are evenly space, cable management looks good. Not everyone likes facades and being lit up by the back lighting for them, myself included.

Agreed. Nothing wrong with that set up... I see worse on this site all the time.

[windspeed36]

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7240/7187795407_63e7dd3489_z.jpg[/img] (http://www.flickr.com/photos/78015501@N07/7187795407/)
Anyone else notice his levels?

[DJ Higgumz]

Agreed. Nothing wrong with that set up... I see worse on this site all the time.

I think he meant no competitors are that bad. anyone he has to compete with has just as neat of a setup.

[Drewbdo]

I think he meant no competitors are that bad. anyone he has to compete with has just as neat of a setup.

Yes, I think Higgumz is right; I think Carblekin was saying, "Not everyone around me is a clown. Here's a professional competitor who is on my level and takes the time to do things correctly."

We can all find a DJ who is worse than we are, and can compare ourselves to them. That's easy, and is a cheap way to feel better, but if we do that too often, we are deluding ourselves. I enjoy the laughs from the bad examples in this thread, but I also really appreciate the gig logs from the pros on our board. Truth be told, many of us (at least those who started out without good examples from mentors or employers) probably started closer to the photos in this thread, and it is a good "Am I 'that' guy? ..." checkup.

However, after I get done laughing, I'd rather find guys like Nick at Event Pro Live, Sween, SockoPro, or many of the other guys on this forum who are doing things well and who show pride in their setups. I'm not on their level, equipment and gig size-wise, but I want to be the best for my size events. I look at what they do, then ask myself, "How can I model my business to follow their example? What do they do, that I can afford to do, so I can get to the next level?".

[SockoPro]

Thanks Drewbdo, I really appreciate that. The best business model is to grow as finances allows, building yourself into your market as a solid DJ. Then you need to sell yourself and say this is why I am better then the competition. Most of the time I can book a job for $1000 that another DJ was going to do for $200. We all started small. I remember my first DJ setup. It was a Yorkville DJM806, 2-Y253 speakers (1' horn, 1 piezo, 2x15) with 8 pin spots, I used to haul it in an open bed of a truck. I somehow did not get rained on for over a year:eek:

[Drewbdo]

... It was a Yorkville DJM806, 2-Y253 speakers (1' horn, 1 piezo, 2x15) with 8 pin spots, I used to haul it in an open bed of a truck. I somehow did not get rained on for over a year:eek:

Wow! You are either a lucky guy, or you live in the desert. :D lol

My second gig was an outdoor festival in August, and a storm came up FAST. It blew over canopies and displays, and I barely got everything in the truck before it hit. Thankfully, my compact truck has an extended cab, so I jammed everything that could get damaged by water inside, and had to put the table, cables, extension cords, and speaker stands in the bed. Then I hid under the 18 wheeler flatbed trailer we used as a stage to stay partially dry until the storm blew out.

The next day, I set everything in the bed out on the driveway and let it dry off.

The temperature went from sunny and almost 100* to pouring, windy, hailing, and about 65* in about 15 minutes. :eek:

[RodneyL]

We can all find a DJ who is worse than we are, and can compare ourselves to them. That's easy, and is a cheap way to feel better, but if we do that too often, we are deluding ourselves. I enjoy the laughs from the bad examples in this thread, but I also really appreciate the gig logs from the pros on our board. Truth be told, many of us (at least those who started out without good examples from mentors or employers) probably started closer to the photos in this thread, and it is a good "Am I 'that' guy? ..." checkup.


I just get a kick out seeing dumb things people do. It's all a common sense thing to me. I would laugh at these people whether they were DJ's or not... because they would probably be the same people who duct tape plastic over a broken car window or hand paint their car with black house paint because the clear coat was chipping.

Even when I started with a cheap Peavey all-in-one portable sound system... I had enough common sense to zip tie cables to the tripod.

[jazzyj]

"25 Years experience.
Wedding receptions starting at $175
Private parties starting at $125 for 3 hours
Book now for the Holidays!
Night Clubs (Nightly, Weekends, Book for special occassions)

ALL types of music available.
Call, text, or email for details.
SOME KARAOKE AVAILABLE..Email what you're needing"

.sigh. 25 years in the biz and this is what it's come down to. Of course I have emailed to inquire about his services.

[RodneyL]

"25 Years experience.
Wedding receptions starting at $175
Private parties starting at $125 for 3 hours
Book now for the Holidays!
Night Clubs (Nightly, Weekends, Book for special occassions)

ALL types of music available.
Call, text, or email for details.
SOME KARAOKE AVAILABLE..Email what you're needing"

.sigh. 25 years in the biz and this is what it's come down to. Of course I have emailed to inquire about his services.

He said 25 years experience... he didn't say in what exactly.

[jazzyj]

He said 25 years experience... he didn't say in what exactly.

True. lol. Guess I assume people aren't as sneaky as they probably actually are.

[AdrianR]

What is wrong with this setup?

I think it looks perfect. The lights are evenly space, cable management looks good. Not everyone likes facades and being lit up by the back lighting for them, myself included.


I agree. I think if I'd pay extra to have a Dj go to that extent to prepare for my wedding or event. However, the true mark of a Dj (in any form of the job) is always going to be how he reads the crowd and his music selection and all that crap. You can have a set up like that, but then you would expect an above average performance from the Dj as well. By above average I mean, someone who REALLY knows their shit.

I looked at one of the last posts in this thread and saw someone with 25 years experience offering a service I think for $175 over 3 hours or something. Where I come from, that is ridiculously cheap, however I wouldn't expect something like this for that price.

I rarely do weddings but when I do I charge minimum $500. My set up for that resembles somewhere in the middle of the two extremes. However, we do a lot of night club work. So we have massive projector screens, laser shows, snow machines etc and people DO want those things at their weddings occasionally. That's when we pull out all the stops and charge upwards of $1,500. But, we know our shit. We suss out the venue weeks, even months prior to the wedding and see what we can get away with. We don't use laptops for weddings, EVER.

There was a photo of a kid sitting on his ass. Often our set ups look a bit similar to his, (The gear on a white table), but we don't sit down. We dress appropriately for the occasion, and we try to deliver the experience of someone going to an effort of having found the proper songs for that event prior to it occuring and taking time to personalise that event. As opposed to just, a generic play list loaded onto a laptop of a Mobile Dj company that he's handed to some kid, and said "Here collect $300 at the end of the night, pay me $150".

I think the key to being a great mobile DJ isn't how your set up looks, (Though it is important). But more so how you can personalise your performance to your clients needs. You can have the most fancy set up in the world but if your client wants a specific song and you haven't gone to the effort to find it for her prior, she's not going to have the best night she could have had. Same goes for her guests.

[azcatman]

Since this thread is back on topic- here's another example of questionable setups.

A mess of cables. Clueless on how to fully open speaker stands. Behringer speakers, when on their website they claim to use "only the best equipment."

I think it's very considerate of them to uplight anyone who comes up to make a request though.

514

[Djmike209]

Since this thread is back on topic- here's another example of questionable setups.

A mess of cables. Clueless on how to fully open speaker stands. Behringer speakers, when on their website they claim to use "only the best equipment."

I think it's very considerate of them to uplight anyone who comes up to make a request though.

514

A few extension cords would fix that mess. It amazes me that it take 10 minutes to clean up your setup and these guys wont. NO pride in what they do.

[kipperj]

Does he have the sun on a truss? :eek:

[bumpyjonas]

A facade, some cable management, and correcting the height of the speaker stands would be a nice before and after.

[DJ Higgumz]

@kipperj that looks like it is on the wall!

[kipperj]

@kipperj that looks like it is on the wall!

Haha my bad. I had trouble telling because of the bar right above it.

[SockoPro]

That smoke machine firing during announcing is classy!

[SockoPro]

Is this really all for real? Facebook FAQ, more like Fak U! (http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=318596608205648)

[Mystic]

Yes... that! Not really sure what to say. He's the OTHER guy in town.

I'm not too far from you. It's sometimes comical what passes for professional setups sometimes around Central PA.

[SockoPro]

^^Yeah lots of "pros" in the area, that is for sure.^^

They once ate at McDonald's and liked the dollar menu pricing so much they stole their price model. Pay little and get little with crappy service.

[DJStevieRay]

Hey Bryan,
Stop picking on me :( lol

[SockoPro]

Well I told you to stop that dollar menu pricing and giving such crappy service!:P

[kipperj]

I don't know a single person in my area who uses a facade besides me... Not saying they're the best, but it cleans my setup up quite nicely. PEople just don't care and it's a shame.

[Manu]

I just did a little google search using the words "Manu" and "DJ". Look what came up...







http://images01.olx.be/ui/11/86/61/1301912188_48798561_1-Photos-de--Manu-dj-anime-vos-divers-soirees-dansantes.jpg


:lol: jeez, that isn't me btw.

[carblekin]

I just did a little google search using the words "Manu" and "DJ". Look what came up...



http://images01.olx.be/ui/11/86/61/1301912188_48798561_1-Photos-de--Manu-dj-anime-vos-divers-soirees-dansantes.jpg


:lol: jeez, that isn't me btw.



That's amazing! Looks like all his equipment is completely WIRELESS! Wireless power, wireless inputs/outputs, wireless speaker jacks, technology is so great!

[Sween]

Manu... I just googled 'DJ' and 'Sween' because of your post and I would also like to point out that this is NOT me...


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Aqmrvz6D2ZQ

[RodneyL]

DJ Rodney... not me, lol

http://www.vegasnews.com/wp-content/uploads/FANTASY-with-DJ-Rodney-570.jpg

[carblekin]

And this is NOT me (searched for DJ Dave K)

http://a4.ec-images.myspacecdn.com/images02/14/f107c4881a6140fca90778aa585c9638/l.jpg

[Burt Bacharach]

That's amazing! Looks like all his equipment is completely WIRELESS! Wireless power, wireless inputs/outputs, wireless speaker jacks, technology is so great!Shame 'bout the headphones. So dated.

[carblekin]

Shame 'bout the headphones. So dated.

Yeah, and in the background he actually does have a pair of real wireless headphones! He should have been wearing those.

[Burt Bacharach]

Wow.. this is not me:


http://youtu.be/OC6q1-l4snw

[Sween]

Wow.. this is not me:


http://youtu.be/OC6q1-l4snw

Your name is DJ Granny???

[jazzyj]

I did mine, but obviously DJ Jazzy Jeff showed up... but there were a few pics of me as well lol :)

[MikeLtheDJ]

found it!

http://images.meez.com/user/8/6/7/2/6/3/1/8672631_bodyshot_300x400.gif

I just spoke with a young lady over the phone about a sweet 16 party. My quote for 5 hours was $600. Then she said this guy will do it for 250.

Sent from my DROID RAZR using Tapatalk 2

[DigitalArtDJs]

I just spoke with a young lady over the phone about a sweet 16 party. My quote for 5 hours was $600. Then she said this guy will do it for 250.

Sent from my DROID RAZR using Tapatalk 2

Hey Mike - your price was a fair quote in this area (my quote would have been higher and if she wanted lights - significantly higher). I get comments like that all the time too. Good luck to her and her $250 CL DJ.

[MikeLtheDJ]

Hey Mike - your price was a fair quote in this area (my quote would have been higher and if she wanted lights - significantly higher). I get comments like that all the time too. Good luck to her and her $250 CL DJ.

Lol.. smaller party, this is with basic lighting. I just love it, way to have a standard.

Sent from my DROID RAZR using Tapatalk 2

[JPelli73]

DJ Rodney... not me, lol

http://www.vegasnews.com/wp-content/uploads/FANTASY-with-DJ-Rodney-570.jpg

Too bad, man. That dude in the orange shirt appears to be living the dream :-)

Pelli

[Burt Bacharach]

Your name is DJ Granny???Negative, but I thought the game was to search your name and see what comes up - this was it. I always struggled to fit in at school... :blank:

[RodneyL]

I just spoke with a young lady over the phone about a sweet 16 party. My quote for 5 hours was $600. Then she said this guy will do it for 250.

Sent from my DROID RAZR using Tapatalk 2

He doesn't really post pics on his website or CL ads. Until one day I finally saw a pic and then I realized why he is so cheap.

[MikeLtheDJ]

Yep... I remember seeing that.

Sent from my DROID RAZR using Tapatalk 2

[Sween]

I just spoke with a young lady over the phone about a sweet 16 party. My quote for 5 hours was $600. Then she said this guy will do it for 250.

So animated gif DJ's are cheap huh?

[RodneyL]

Yep... I remember seeing that.

Sent from my DROID RAZR using Tapatalk 2

Who is your biggest competitor in the triangle area? Is it Joe Bunn?

[JackStalk]

I just spoke with a young lady over the phone about a sweet 16 party. My quote for 5 hours was $600. Then she said this guy will do it for 250.

Sent from my DROID RAZR using Tapatalk 2

I would do it for $250 too. Music only, no lights.

[Synaxis]

I would do it for $250 too. Music only, no lights.

That is WAY TOO low. Your underselling yourself big time, and hurting the DJ market...

Especially for a Sweet 16...

Read These:

http://www.djforums.com/forums/showthread.php?10442-Get-What-You-re-Worth!

http://www.djforums.com/forums/showthread.php?10759-Remember-we-are-NOT-a-Charity-Service

[RodneyL]

I would do it for $250 too. Music only, no lights.

You charge $50/hr?

[MikeLtheDJ]

Who is your biggest competitor in the triangle area? Is it Joe Bunn?

Joe is big, if you search dj Raleigh NC, that's mostly my competition. Brian Pate stays bussy, Spin DJs, island sound. Our market is very saturated.

Sent from my DROID RAZR using Tapatalk

[Sween]

Here's a great photo of your first dance that you will treasure forever...

http://i1136.photobucket.com/albums/n493/futurescapes/baddj.jpg

[DYM]

I would do it for $250 too. Music only, no lights.

A backyard party during the week for 3 hours is is $250... a 4-5 hour Sweet 16 is $5 - 600 starting price for minimum lighting (no intelligent lighting).

...and your in NJ :facepalm:

[Synaxis]

...and your in NJ :facepalm:

I didn't even notice that, great...

Double :facepalm:

[Andrew B]

Closing this thread out of respect for the DJs who are being made fun of.

[fatcatdj]

Looking at other mobiles, I must have the sloppiest set up. Doesn't look too
bad from a distance but come up to the coffin and its a hot mess.

Post a link to your hot mess
make me feel better


http://imageshack.us/f/21/dscf0632i.jpg/

http://imageshack.us/f/521/dscf0633z.jpg/

[windspeed36]

http://www.djforums.com/forums/showthread.php?3855-How-NOT-to-run-your-mobile-DJ-business-pics-of-the-competition

This will help you, no doubt this thread will be locked for a similar reason to the above.

[DJMC]

we all have to start from the bottom! LOL

[sss18734]

Oh man... I miss that thread. Here's a gem I found locally a while back:

http://imageshack.us/a/img843/4783/3fa3j53n65kd5u55j2cbga3.jpg

If that doesn't make you feel better, I don't know what will.

[KLH]

MOD NOTICE:

I moved the last four posts within this thread before noticing that the thread was closed by Andrew B. I agree that this thread should be closed and will not move the posts back into a separate thread continuing the concept.

Let this entire thread be the reason why we, as mobile DJs, strive to be better. Bring the highest level of performance and professionalism to our craft.

Thanks,

-KLH