BAICAPTURE

             SEEING THE BIGGER PICTURE

Baicapture Takes A Shot At Franchising

 

The Baicapture Family

The picture-perfect family of Baicapture is set to grow even bigger as it zooms out for a wider angle this year.

Popularly known as a chic and automated photo booth service making rounds in numerous upscale events since 2007, Baicapture is now ready to take a shot at the world of franchising as it opens its doors to possible expansions across the globe.  Under the leadership of the complementary husband-and-wife tandem, software innovator John Bailon and interior designer Jackie Bailon, the modish and pioneering booths of the Manila-based company have made its way to several key locations in the country like Cebu, Pampanga and Bataan; the brand has also been exported all the way to Singapore.

The company, however, realized that franchising is the key to better capture other markets. “We believe that franchising will provide a chance for the Baicapture brand to grow even further while improving its services to different customers in varying locations,” said John who currently serves as the company’s Managing Director.

John pictured the future of photo booth services in 2007 while witnessing the shortcomings of a mobile studio hired for his cousin’s birthday party. A then computer science major, he spotted the need for automation and efficiency in the service, leading him to design a promising prototype of the current booths used by his company today. The young pioneer then pitched the idea to Chiw and Alvin Bailon of the premier invitation maker, Printsonalities—a move which unexpectedly ushered a new generation for photo booth services by the name of   Baicapture.                                                                                               

Since its launch, the brand became known for its sleek photo booths, fun and hassle-free shoots, quick prints and comprehensive, first-class service. It also became known for providing pre-event consultations which allow the clients to choose customized backdrops and prints catering to their events, extensively trained on-site technicians, and the high-resolution digital copies of the photographs made available through the company’s website and the quirky USB flash drives which are given to the clients after every event.

Because of its high-quality and wide-ranging services, Baicapture soon became a popular addition to numerous events of companies including MTV, Fox International, Globe Telecom, ABS-CBN, GMA-7, Summit Media, Solar Entertainment, Microsoft, Jollibee, Smart, Levi’s and Nestle among others.

“Our edge is quality,” said Jackie who currently serves as the company’s Finance Director. “You can see that quality in the print, the design, the booth, and the whole process from booking to execution. We also have a solid backend support. We’re also very eager because this is such a feel-good business.”

Through John’s innovative mind which has further expanded the company’s service, and Jackie’s artistic eye which has further improved the brand’s style, Baicapture has become a marriage of science and art, business and pleasure, as well as form and function.

Creating ‘cameraderie’

Now that it has captured several markets in the Philippines and abroad, with its coined tag-line “creating cameraderie” the company believes that it is ready to branch out.

“We realized that in order to achieve growth for our business, we have to cater to other areas as well, John said. “We have moved into other areas but we figured that it’s better if the brand is being handled with a local touch. Through expansion, we also want to reduce the additional transportation costs incurred by clients outside our operating areas. Because of that, we figured that the right direction for us is really aimed toward franchising.”

Currently, Baicapture’s local franchising program is divided into two packages. The standard package includes one complete Baicapture Photo Booth machine, trainings and manuals, market research and feasibility studies, free man power support for the franchisee’s first five events, pre-opening activities and support, and initial supplies. Meanwhile, the local area exclusivity package upgrades the standard package by providing franchising exclusivity in a certain area or province, and two complete booths instead of one.

For the company’s international franchising program, there are also two packages. The international standard package includes one complete Baicapture Photo Booth machine, trainings and manuals, market research and feasibility studies, pre-opening marketing collaterals and support, technical support via phone or Skype, aid in the securing of intellectual property rights, and initial supplies. Meanwhile, the international area exclusivity package upgrades the standard package by providing franchising exclusivity in a certain area or province and two complete booths instead of one. Additional booths for international and local packages may also be acquired for an additional price.

“Among the reasons as to why we’ve succeeded is the fact that we’ve taken care of our brand very well,” John said. “Because of that, we’re also looking for franchisees who can take good care of that brand and its clients.”

Picture-perfect business

In this current age, when technological advancements have given rise to the digital format and camera owners driven by the need to fill up social networking accounts, the business of photo booth services may seem challenging at best. However, the Bailon couple remains undeterred.

“We’re also capable of competing at a digital level since that’s also part of the services we offer,” said Jackie. “But apart from that, I really believe that having an actual printed photograph in your hands still provides a unique experience.”

“We believe that printed photos are not obsolete especially if it can be done easily,” said John. “Through Baicapture, we are capable of providing that.”

Since taking its first shot in business, Baicapture has made use of innovation and hard work to keep up with the current pace of photography and photo sharing. And now that it is moving to expand to different parts of the world with creativity and hard work, one can expect that the business of photo booth services may still be far from going out of the picture.