What I’d Do Differently as a New Brand Photographer
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If I knew what I know now…
Thinking back on how I started my journey as an entrepreneur, there are some moments I’m proud of, and some I wish I would’ve done differently. I’m absolutely thankful for the lessons I’ve learned, mistakes I made and advice I received to make me who I am today.
If you’re just getting started as a photographer, and maybe you want to eventually turn your hobby into a legit business that outearns your day job or contributes to your family’s financial goals, I’m sharing some of the steps you can take to maximize your efforts and grow even faster than I did when I started.
1. Niche down from day one, and study my ideal client
It’s never too soon to establish your niche. You can get even more specific by establishing the type of brands and industries you want to work with the most.
Study their Instagram and website, how they create content and the gaps you can fill with your offers. Then communicate how you can help them through your offers.
2. Build an email list ASAP
Don’t solely rely on Instagram or any social media for leads and conversions. Invest time and energy into a solid lead capture, waitlist, SEO and blogging to drive traffic to your e-mail list.
Promote your lead capture often to convert social media followers to e-mail subscribers and ultimately clients! Nurture that e-mail list and include links to current offers. I use Flodesk, and love their beautiful templates, simple workflows and segmentation.
3. Establish a personal brand
There are millions of photographers who create beautiful work. Your personal brand isn’t just your portfolio work. Show your personality, your core values and what inspires you often.
Connect with your ideal client on a deeper level, so they feel like they know you before they even book you!
4. Book a brand shoot for my own business every quarter
Practice what you preach! Don’t hide behind portfolio work. You can speak from personal experience when you book your own brand photoshoots and use them in your marketing channels.
It also helps to boost your confidence when you’re both behind and in front of the camera.
5. Invest in tools, systems and education right away
You don’t need every single tool possible when you’re getting started, but you do need a professional website, scheduling tool and photo gallery delivery platform for a better experience.
Also, educate yourself! There are both free resources and paid mentoring. Reach out to brand photographers who inspire you and invest in a 1:1 or group coaching session.
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Grab a seat in the Getting Started in Brand Photography class on 8/25 at 11am EST! The replay will be sent if you can’t join live. It will also be in my digital shop by the top of September.
