
Most photographers started their business out of a love for photography not a love for business. As you settle in and look to grow your photography business you may find that you are waiting around for clients to come to you. If you are like I was early in my photography business, you want to do something to start gaining more clients. Yet, you do not know what you can do.
I’m sharing my 5 favorite things you can focus on right now for your photography business. These are tried and true things I did in my own business.
Please know, these are not overnight growth ideas. Instead they support sustainable, long term photography business growth. Strategies that will not only help you attract clients, but keep them year after year.
Ready to jump on in? Let’s get started.
The first thing you can do for your photography business is focus on your website’s SEO.
This doesn’t mean hire someone to stuff keywords all over your website. This means learning SEO, or Search Engine Optimization, so that you can not only optimize your site, but update it regularly yourself.
I truly believe that you can learn the basics and handle your website on an ongoing basis.
I highly recommend checking out MaryBeth Bryant of MB Bryant Images. She has plenty of free resources to get your started in SEO for your photography business. Plus, if you need extra help you can work with her 1 on 1.
Next, take a course to further your learning.
You could focus on bettering yourself as a photographer or as a photography business owner. Investing in yourself as an artists and/or as a business owner will only help you.
Learning never ends, so take this time to work to grow.
Blogging is always something that will help your photography business.
Early in business when I was not getting clients, I focused on blogging. It was something I could do during nap time, my lunch hour during my “day job.” Blogging not only helped me attract dream clients to my photography business, but it also helped me better serve those clients.
Blogging over time will change your business. It is worth the work.
(Do you struggle with blogging? Grab my free Blogging Template for Photographers to help you get started.)
Another thing you can do to grow your business is get involved in your community.
Look for ways you can give back, serve, fill needs in the community. As you do, people will come to know you. When they are ready for family photos, you will come to mind.
One example of getting involved is hosting mini sessions for a local cause. Reach out to local businesses to see if you could partner for something. Or even, donate a session to the local schools for their fundraising auctions.
While getting involved may not feel like it pays off or equal more clients, it is a great way to build that know like and trust factor. Plus, you’re serving your community and making a difference. Win-win!
Finally, have a model call for your photography business.
When you’re not booking enough clients it can be challenging to continue to show up on social media and your blog.
Holding a model call can benefit your photography business in several ways. First, it allows you to create work that you want to attract. You’ll have images you can share on your blog and social media platforms that will help you attract clients who want that kind of work.
Next, when you’re holding a model call, people are more likely to share your post or tag their friends. This, in turn spreads awareness about your business. Another win-win!
These 5 things are all things you can start doing right now to grow your photography business. So what will you do first?
Do you love great photography business tips? I have put together a plethora of resources to help you run your business more effectively and efficiently.
Awesome ideas, thank you!
Great tips! Learning is always something to grow in and can be a great way to use downtime!
Great ideas here. I especially love the info on the model calls. I had considered doing this but wasn’t sure of the benefits. I see how it can help with SEO now though. Thank you!
Thanks Neyssa! They are all helpful suggestions! 🙂
I’m so encouraged because I am doing some of these things, which means I must be on the right track! Now…on to do some of the suggestions I’m missing… Thanks for the great post!