New Top Level Domains for Photographers, Grab Them While They Last
As was inevitable, the more common and generic top level domains (e.g. .com, .net, and even .co) are becoming scarce as more and more domains are registered each day.
Knowing this moment in time would come, ICANN, the authority in charge of managing domain names, has been putting out more and more top level domains in hopes of opening up more options for those looking to grab their own piece of the web — and photographers are benefiting more directly than most.
As of this month, ICANN has released six new domains that will specifically stand out for us shutter junkies:
- .photography
- .gallery
- .graphics
- .equipment
- .camera
- .lighting
It’s safe to say many of the obvious configurations of the above domains are taken, but being fresh in the world of domains, it’s also likely you’ll be able to snag one of the above that’s much more specific to your work than your .com or .net domain name.
For the first time since the late 80s, it’s likely you’ll be able to get your hands on a domain name that will really stand out in the crowd. That’s something that could make a big difference when it comes to branding.
Not that these domains don’t come with pitfalls. In addition to being quite a bit longer than .com, it’s possible that those looking to find you online will attempt to add .com to the end of anyways, just out of habit. Over time, this issue will probably work itself out as people become accustomed to the new domains, but in the meantime there may be some struggle.
Ranging in price from $16/year to $35/year, the domains are available from the most widely used and trusted domain registrars, such as GoDaddy, Namecheap, and my personal favorite, Hover.
And since these domains are now, and people fear change, many of the registrars are offering discounts to help ease the pain if you’re planning to make the transition. GoDaddy is offering 32% off the newest top level domains, the above six being a part of the offer, for a limited time. And Hover is offering 10% off your entire purchase if you use the coupon code “HONEST.”
Whether you’ve already grabbed your own little piece of the web using the new domains or are planning to, let us know what you think about these new top level domains and how you believe they’ll affect the photo industry in the comments below.
(via Lensvid)
