Main Street Ottumwa Photography Project
Request for Proposals (RFP)
Introduction
Main Street Ottumwa, a designated Main Street Iowa program, is seeking proposals from professional photographers to capture a collection of high-quality images that showcase the progress, vibrancy, and unique character of downtown Ottumwa. This project is funded by the "40th Anniversary Photography Incentive" from Main Street Iowa, which aims to provide local programs with professional imagery for marketing and storytelling purposes.
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Project Scope & Deliverables
The selected photographer will be responsible for providing a minimum of 16 and a maximum of 32 usable, professional-grade images that meet the following criteria:
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Quantity & Resolution: A minimum of 16 and a maximum of 32 high-resolution images (300 dpi, at least 2000 x 2000 pixels).
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Image Versions: Portrait and landscape versions of select submissions are encouraged.
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Technical Specifications: Images must be free of all labeling, borders, and timestamps.
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Subject Matter:
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Showcase all four seasons of downtown Ottumwa, if possible.
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Include before-and-after photos for building improvement projects (no photo collages).
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Streetscape images must include people to demonstrate an active and vibrant downtown.
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Reflect the Main Street 4-Point Approach, including but not limited to:
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Events and community gatherings
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Volunteers in action
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Beautification efforts and public art
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Building rehabilitation and historic preservation
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Support for local businesses
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Any upper-story residential projects must show furniture within the photo.
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Budget
Main Street Ottumwa has secured a one-time incentive of $800 for this project from Main Street Iowa.
Submission Requirements
To be considered for this project, photographers must submit a proposal that includes the following:
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Narrative: Brief background of your work.
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Portfolio: Provide at least 5-10 images that demonstrate your relevant experience and style..
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Contact Information: Full name, phone number, and email address.
Project Timeline
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RFP Release: August 28, 2025
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Proposal Submission Deadline: September 15, 20205
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Photographer Selection: September 22, 2025
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Final Images Due to Main Street Ottumwa: January 30, 2026
Proposal Submission
All proposals must be submitted electronically to the following contact:
Kris Patrick, Executive Director, Main Street Ottumwa
Questions
Questions can be submitted to Kris Patrick at director@mainstreetottumwa.com or 641-814-5225