Phi meson photoproduction near threshold energies

$\phi$ meson photoproduction is discussed within an effective Lagrangian approach, as a part of a combined analysis of meson production reactions. Particular emphasis is given to the analysis of the recent photoproduction data from the LEPS Collaboration, where a bump structure at $\sqrt s \approx$ 2.15 GeV has been observed. Effects of the possible spin-1/2 and -3/2 resonances are investigated as well as the various background contributions, such as the pseudo-scalar and scalar $t$-channel meson exchanges, in addition to the pomeron exchange.