3 Best Practices for Your Photography Business

After years behind the lens, I’ve picked up a few tricks that go beyond just capturing stunning images. It turns out that running a successful photography business is all about mastering some key practices that keep everything running like a well-oiled machine. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your approach, here are three game-changing tips that have really boosted my business.

I’m excited to share these with you—let’s dive in!

1. Build Strong Client Relationships

Let’s face it, photography is as much about people as it is about pictures. Building solid relationships with your clients is key to turning one-time gigs into long-term partnerships.

Here’s what’s worked for me:

Communicate Like a Pro

Clear communication is a game-changer:

• Initial Contact: I respond quickly and provide all the info clients need. Being upfront about services, pricing, and what they can expect sets the stage for a smooth process.
• During the Process: Regular updates and check-ins keep clients in the loop and excited about their shoot. It builds trust and helps address any concerns before they become issues.
• Post-Shoot Follow-Up: A heartfelt thank-you note or email shows appreciation, and sharing a sneak peek of their photos keeps them engaged and excited.

Add Personal Touches

Small touches make a big impact:

• Customize Your Service: I tailor my approach to fit each client’s preferences. If they have specific requests or likes, I make sure to incorporate those into their shoot.
• Special Gestures: A handwritten thank-you card or a small gift goes a long way. It’s all about making the client feel valued and appreciated.

Seek and Act on Feedback

Feedback is INVALUABLE for growth:

• Request Reviews: I ask clients for their feedback after the shoot. It helps me understand what went well and where I can improve.
• Implement Changes: I use their feedback to tweak my process and make necessary adjustments. Continuous improvement is key to providing top-notch service!

Resources to Strengthen Client Relationships

Building lasting client relationships is CRUCIAL in photography. Here are some top resources that I HIGHLY recommend:

Behind-the-Scenes Videos (Check it here)

I’ve put together some behind-the-scenes footage from my real maternity and couple shoots. These videos offer a transparent look at how I work and interact with clients:

• Show Your Process: These videos let your clients see what goes on behind the scenes, from setting up the shoot to capturing those precious moments. It’s a great way to ease any nerves and demonstrate the effort and care you put into each session.
• Highlight Your Style: Watch how I engage with clients and create a comfortable atmosphere. This not only showcases your unique style but also helps potential clients understand what they can expect.
• Build Trust: Sharing these clips helps build trust by letting clients see your approach and professionalism in action.

Pre-Written Email Templates (Check it here)

I’ve crafted over 55 email templates covering a wide range of scenarios specifically for us photographers. These templates are designed to streamline communication and ensure you’re always prepared:

• Initial Contact Templates: Make a stellar first impression with professional and friendly responses that set the tone for a positive client experience.
• Booking and Confirmation Templates: Smooth out the booking process and keep everything organized with clear, concise confirmation and follow-up emails.
• Pre-Shoot Check-Ins: Keep your clients informed and excited with engaging check-in emails that help them feel prepared and involved.
• Post-Shoot Follow-Ups: Show your appreciation and keep the connection strong with personalized thank-you notes and follow-up messages, along with options for sharing sneak peeks or delivering final galleries.

These resources are designed to help you build stronger, more personal connections with your clients, making their experience memorable and ensuring they keep coming back!

2. Optimize Your Workflow

A streamlined workflow isn’t just a luxury; it’s essential for running an efficient and successful photography business. When your workflow is well-organized, you can handle more clients, deliver higher-quality work, and reduce stress. It’s about creating a seamless process that ensures every shoot runs smoothly, from the initial client contact to final delivery.

Here’s how I keep everything ticking like a well-oiled machine:

Craft a Step-by-Step Workflow Plan

Having a game plan is essential:

• Pre-Shoot Prep: I’m all about checklists. From gear to location details, I make sure everything’s squared away before the shoot. Templates for contracts and questionnaires? Total lifesavers.
• During the Shoot: I keep my focus sharp with a clear shot list and open communication. It’s like having a cheat sheet for the day, helping me capture all those must-have shots without breaking a sweat.
• Post-Shoot Process: My editing and delivery process follows a well-established routine. Setting timelines and sticking to them helps me manage client expectations and keeps things running smoothly.

Tech Tools for Efficiency

Technology can be a powerful ally in managing your workflow:

• Editing Software: Adobe Lightroom and Narrative Select are my secret weapons! Presets and batch processing streamline my editing and keep everything consistent.
• Project Management Tools: Tools like Monday and HoneyBook help me track tasks, deadlines, and project progress. They keep everything organized and ensure nothing falls through the cracks!
• Cloud Storage: Google Drive, Dropbox, and Backblaze are my digital safety nets! They ensure my files are always backed up and accessible from anywhere, which is a total game-changer!

Maintain an Organized Space

A clutter-free space leads to a clutter-free mind:

• Digital Files: I’ve got a system for naming and sorting files that keeps things easy to find. Regular backups are crucial—no one wants to lose their work to a tech glitch!
• Physical Space: I keep my gear and workspace organized. Regular cleaning and a designated spot for everything help me stay focused and efficient.

Optimize Your Workflow with My Course

If you’re ready to supercharge your workflow, my Workflow Course has you covered:

• In-Depth Workflow Strategies: I break down my entire workflow, from pre-shoot planning to post-session delivery, with practical tips and real-life examples.
• Tech and Tools: Learn how to harness the power of editing software, project management tools, and cloud storage to streamline your process and boost productivity.
• Organizational Tips: Discover how to keep both your digital and physical spaces organized to enhance your efficiency and reduce stress.

Imagine having more time to focus on capturing those perfect shots, or simply enjoying a bit more downtime. That’s what a streamlined workflow can offer you. By following the strategies in my course, you’ll not only enhance your efficiency but also make your business run like a well-oiled machine. Join the waitlist here and be the first to know when it’s available again!

3. Market Yourself Smartly

Want to make a splash in the photography world? It’s all about standing out and showing off what makes you unique! But it’s not just about flashy promotions—it’s about creating a genuine, engaging presence that draws clients to you. Here’s how I approach marketing in a way that’s authentic and effective:

Rock Your Online Presence

Your website and social media are your digital storefronts. Here’s how I make sure mine shine:

• Website: My site is more than just a portfolio; it’s a vibrant showcase of my work, client stories, and easy ways to get in touch. It’s designed to captivate visitors with fresh, dynamic content that gives them a true sense of my style and personality. It’s not just about displaying photos—it’s about inviting people into my world and making them feel excited about working with me.
• Social Media: I keep my social media lively and engaging with regular posts that include behind-the-scenes glimpses, client highlights, and helpful photography tips. By sharing authentic content and interacting with my followers, I build a community that’s enthusiastic about photography and keeps my name top of mind.

Show Off Client Testimonials

Happy clients are your best promoters:

• Feature Reviews: I spotlight glowing testimonials on my website and social media. It’s like having a team of advocates who share their positive experiences, helping to build trust and attract new clients!
• Referral Perks: I love rewarding clients who refer new business my way. Offering perks for referrals not only shows my appreciation but also creates a steady stream of new opportunities!

Share Valuable Content

Establish yourself as a go-to expert:

• Blogging: I share photography tips (like this blog 🤘🏼), behind-the-scenes stories, and how-to guides. It’s a way to connect with my audience and showcase my expertise in a relatable way!
• Educational Resources: Crafting guides and tutorials helps me share valuable knowledge and position myself as a passionate expert in the field.

By leveraging these strategies, you can create a marketing approach that feels genuine and effectively showcases your work. Embrace these tips and watch as your audience grows and your business thrives!

In a Nutshell

At the end of the day, building a successful photography business is all about creating strong connections, staying organized, and putting yourself out there. Focus on building relationships that keep your clients coming back, streamline your workflow so you can spend more time behind the camera (and less behind a desk), and market yourself in a way that feels authentic and fun.

These aren’t just tips—they’re the backbone of a thriving business. So, take these strategies, make them your own, and watch your photography journey soar. You’ve got this!

---

Join our newsletter for the inside scoop on amazing tips, exclusive freebies, and expert advice to make your photography journey and wedding planning a breeze. Whether you’re a photographer, a bride-to-be, or simply love capturing life’s magic, we’ve got you covered. Don’t miss out – let’s create beautiful memories together!