It’s uncommon that someone becomes a photographer because they love business – they do it because they love photography. The catch? Not all photographers are innately good at business; and more specifically – marketing. Yet in order to run a successful photography business, photography strategies are necessary. 

Because running a photography business is, in most cases, a local thing – we’ve got to put some effort into marketing our business if we want it to truly grow. 

3 Little Known Local Photography Strategies

1. Collaborate with well-known businesses (or individuals) in your town.

Oftentimes we think we have to do it alone. That we have to grow our businesses by ourselves and that others can’t help – usually because we don’t want to bother them with it. But what if there was a way to not only have someone help you grow your business, but you bless them in return? 

Two words: strategic partnership. Be smart about who you’re choosing to help, and make sure you’re both getting something out of it. Choose someone who is in front of your ideal clientele everyday, (or at least has high chances of it.) Offer to do some brand or family photos for them, (or whatever type of photography you specialize in.) That way, not only will your photos bless them, but they’ll be able to reach their audience. On top of that, whenever photography is brought up around them (the business owner you’re helping,) – they’ll immediately think of you! You’ll be top of mind because they’ve actually worked with you before, and can speak from a place of experience. Word of mouth marketing is, and will always be – your strongest suit! 😉 

2. Actually tell people you’re a photographer. 

This strategy is severely underrated, and often overlooked. Find ways to tell people you’re a photographer. Go out of your way to create natural segways into that conversation, or other conversations that could revolve around your business. We have hundreds of opportunities each day to market our businesses face to face: in the grocery store, in restaurants, at the gym, when we’re shopping, etc. 

Begin researching and crafting your elevator pitch, because once you bring up that you’re a photographer, it’s ideal for the conversation to actually lead to a sale But if not, even just a good connection is great! 

3. Utilize geotags & location-based hashtags on Instagram. 

Just because social media is an online tool, doesn’t mean it can’t serve a purpose in your local marketing strategy. All you have to do is be strategic on the type of hashtags you’re using! Try using a mixture of location-based hashtags, along with some broader, industry-specific ones. An example of a location-based hashtag would be (for me) #texarkanaphotographer, and an industry-specific one could be #elopementphotographer #intimateweddingphotographer or #risingtidesociety. You’re able to use up to 30 hashtags in a post, but I recommend staying between 11-12 that are super strategic and relevant to the photo. 

Since implementing a location-based social media strategy in my business, about 90 percent of my inquiries come from Instagram! So I’m proof that it works, you just have to be consistent with it. 

Are you having trouble marketing your photography business? Don’t worry, I gotchu boo. I hop on the phone with photographers every week that need that “kick-start” in their business, for free! Usually they’re to see if we’re a good fit for a one-on-one mentorship, but you don’t have to go through with that; you can get my top tips with no strings attached! Interested? Just click the button below and snag a time that works best for you, I’d LOVE to meet you and “nerd out” over all things photography biz! 

Looking for more helpful photography tips? Feel free to binge on these blog posts, or pin ’em on Pinterest for later! ??

If you’re short on time, follow me on Pinterest – and you’ll get these kinda tips delivered straight to your feed! You know… when you’re scrollin’ through Pinterest with coffee in hand, ready to take on the day… or, procrastinate.

Whatevs. Pinterest biz sesh, anybody!? ??