If you are getting started as a working photographer, you know that growing your business is a constant challenge. With the rise of social media and other free marketing methods, it’s easier than ever to promote your work and attract new clients. Here are some tips and examples to help you grow your photography business without breaking the bank.
Social Media Marketing
Social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter can be powerful tools for promoting your photography business. A few things to keep in mind is you need to post regularly. Consistency is key when it comes to social media. Try to post at least once a day to keep your followers engaged. Hashtags can help your posts reach a wider audience. Use relevant hashtags for your niche and location to attract potential clients. Here’s a few examples to whet your appetite: #marketingphotography, #photographycommunity, #photographyportfolio, #brandingphotography, #weddingphotography, #portraitphotography, #landscapephotography, #productphotography, #commercialphotography, #streetphotography, #travelphotography, #photographyeducation, #photographymentor, #photographyworkshops, #photographyconference. Engage with your followers. Respond to comments and messages, and engage with other photographers and influencers in your niche. Check out the Instagram profiles of photographers like @jasonmpeterson, @taylormccutchan, and @samuelelkins for inspiration.
Blogging and Content Marketing
Blogging and content marketing can help establish you as an expert in your field and drive traffic to your website. Be sure to write for your audience. Create content that your ideal client would be interested in reading. For example, if you specialize in wedding photography, write blog posts about wedding planning tips or how to choose a wedding photographer. Next, as a photographer, your images should speak for themselves. Use high-quality images to showcase your work and make your content visually appealing. Last, don’t forget to share your blog posts on social media and in photography groups to drive traffic to your website. If you want to see how this is done, check out the blogs of photographers like Jasmine Star, Sue Bryce, and Ben Sasso for inspiration.
Referral Marketing
Word of mouth is one of the most powerful forms of marketing. How do you compel people to talk about your content? Offer a discount or free print to clients who refer new business to you. After a shoot, follow up with your clients to thank them and ask for referrals. Don’t forget that great customer service can help you out in this area. Lastly,attend industry events and meet other photographers and vendors in your niche to expand your network. Check out the websites of photographers like Amy and Jordan, Katelyn James, and Justin and Mary Marantz for examples of how they use referral marketing.
SEO and Local Listings
Search engine optimization (SEO) and local listings can help potential clients find you online. Here are some tips for optimizing your online presence. Use relevant keywords on your website and in your content to help search engines understand what your business is about. Claim your business on Google My Business and other local directories to improve your local search rankings. Encourage clients to leave reviews on your Google My Business page and other review sites to improve your online reputation. Check out the websites of photographers like Jose Villa, Elizabeth Messina, and Susan Stripling for examples of how they use SEO and local listings.
At the end of the day, if you have great skills as a photographer and create compelling and interesting images, using the items above should get you a bit more attention by making it easier for people to find your content…..and ultimately your business.
