Are you looking for the best way to find a business photographer? If so, you're in the right place. As a former marketing director and current professional photographer, I know what it takes to find photography clients. In this article, I'll share 11 common marketing mistakes to avoid and 13 marketing activities that will help you find the perfect business photographer. When it comes to finding photography clients, it's important to remember that marketing is not optional.
You can't become one of Professional Photographers of America's most profitable photographers without investing time and effort into marketing your business. Usually, an hour or two a week is all it takes. If you're looking for 500 clients a year, then mass advertising may be a good idea. This includes ads on Facebook and Instagram, local magazines and television.
However, if you don't need that many clients, then there are other ways to market your business. One of the best ways to find photography clients is by reaching out to your existing customer database. Up to 75% of portrait business each year comes from returning customers. You can encourage them to come back by sending them notes of joy, marketing articles with dog whistles and works of art that you donate to charities they support.
You should also consider offering discounts or special offers as part of your photo marketing budget. This is a normal cost of doing business and can help attract new customers. Additionally, having a website and being present on social media platforms is essential for a photography business. This is the best way to communicate who you are as a photography company and attract those who fit your brand. Another great way to find photography clients is by contacting companies and presenting ideas where both parties benefit from the use of photo marketing.
Before donating your time to every organization that comes your way, evaluate if accepting a job can positively affect your photography business or not. Finally, don't forget about distributing business cards at area stores. People don't pick up a stranger's business card for something as personal as a photograph of their family or their wedding. However, if you have an email list, it can be an effective way to promote your photography business. Just make sure you carefully plan shipping times, brand voice and frequency.
