161. Marketing Questions to Challenge Your Photography Business
Today, I’m here to help you evaluate your marketing plan with a set of questions designed to identify what’s working, what’s not, and where you can make improvements. As photographers, it’s easy to feel like everyone around us is fully booked, especially during busy seasons. But if you’re wondering why you’re not seeing the same level of business, this exercise is for you.
Grab a notebook, write down these questions, and take some time to reflect on your answers. The goal is to help you create a marketing strategy that’s intentional, sustainable, and tailored to your unique business.
1. What’s Your Marketing Plan?
Many photographers don’t have a clear marketing plan and often just follow what others are doing. While that might work for a while, having a defined strategy is essential for long-term success. Think about how you currently bring in clients. Are you intentional about the channels you’re using? Are you tracking how many clients you’re attracting from each source?
Knowing where your leads come from allows you to double down on what works and pivot away from what doesn’t. If you’re unsure about your plan right now, this is the perfect time to refine it!
2. Where Are You Marketing?
Your marketing strategy should include specific channels. Are you focusing on social media, your website, in-person events, or email marketing? There’s no right or wrong answer, but you need to be intentional about where you’re spending your efforts.
Some options you might consider include:
- Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, TikTok
- Blogging & SEO: Attracting clients through organic search
- Email Marketing: Building a loyal audience
- Local Events or Trade Shows: Networking in your community
- Referral Programs: Encouraging past clients to spread the word
List the channels you’re currently using and brainstorm new ones to try. If you’re not seeing the results you want, it could be time to diversify or change up your strategy.
3. How Often Are You Marketing?
It’s one thing to be on social media, but how often are you posting? If social media is your main marketing tool, one post a week likely isn’t enough to keep your calendar full. To create consistency, consider other ways to engage with potential clients: email newsletters, blog posts, or even paid advertising.
Remember, frequency matters. Make sure your marketing efforts align with your business goals, and commit to a schedule that keeps you visible to your audience.
4. Do You Have a Website?
A website is crucial if you’re serious about growing your photography business. Relying solely on social media or word of mouth can work, but a website gives you a professional space where clients can learn more about your services and book sessions. It also helps you rank on search engines, making it easier for new clients to find you.
5. How’s Your SEO?
If you’re not familiar with SEO, it stands for Search Engine Optimization, which determines how easily clients can find you online. Take time to evaluate where you’re ranking on Google. Use tools like SEMrush to see how your site performs for keywords like “your city + photographer.” If SEO isn’t currently part of your strategy, it’s time to incorporate it and start climbing those search rankings.
6. What Are Your Keywords?
Your keywords are what potential clients type into search engines to find services like yours. Knowing your keywords can significantly improve your SEO strategy. Start with a few basics, such as “family photographer,” “portrait photographer,” or “wedding photographer,” and add specific locations. Identifying the right keywords allows you to target clients searching for exactly what you offer.
7. Are You Confident in Your Services and Pricing?
Confidence is key when it comes to marketing. If you’re unsure about your offerings or hesitant about your pricing, it’s going to be challenging to put yourself out there effectively. Take time to evaluate whether you’re happy with your services and prices. Investing in education or training can help boost your confidence and allow you to feel secure in what you’re offering.
8. Do You Show Gratitude for Your Clients?
Sometimes we get so focused on new bookings that we forget to show appreciation for the clients we already have. Gratitude is powerful; it builds strong client relationships and encourages repeat business. Spend a week focusing on gratitude in your marketing—highlight your clients, share testimonials, or simply post about how thankful you are for the work you get to do. Shifting to a gratitude mindset can transform the way potential clients perceive your business.
Ready to Take Your Marketing to the Next Level?
If you’re ready to build a solid marketing plan, I’m launching a photographer cohort this year that will focus on helping you scale and grow your business. This year-long mastermind will be open to ten photographers ready to work on refining their marketing strategies, implementing strong systems, and diversifying income streams. If that sounds like you, DM me “scale” on Instagram or use the link below to join the waitlist.
Take this opportunity to reflect on these questions and start making changes that will propel your photography business forward. With the right marketing strategy, you’ll feel more confident, booked, and grateful for the clients you attract.
October 29, 2024
kyleeanncoaching