Episode 286 – 13 of My Best Photography Marketing Ideas

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Photography Business Institute
Photography Business Institute

How do you build a photography business that actually fills your calendar with clients who want to invest in art for their home—without posting “now booking” graphics or racing to the bottom on price?

In this episode, I’m sharing 13 of my most tried-and-true marketing strategies that helped me sell over $3 million in photography… and that continue to help my students attract right-fit, full-paying clients.

So if you want to stop chasing leads and start growing a boutique photography business with confidence, hit play and enjoy the episode!

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

1. Build and Engage Your Database

  • Your database is more than an email list—it’s everyone you know.
  • Segment your contacts by life stage or relationship.
  • Use “problem-solution” moments (like a new puppy!) to spark meaningful outreach.

2. Create Your “Dog Whistle”

  • These are premium printed pieces (not postcards) that call in your dream clients.
  • Include emotional messaging and beautiful imagery.
  • Elevate your print quality to match your brand.

3. Send Notes of Joy + Video Texts

  • Handwritten notes every week build top-of-mind awareness.
  • Personalized video texts deepen connection instantly and warmly.

4. Find Co-Marketing Partners

  • Team up with local businesses your audience already loves.
  • Create genuine partnerships that offer value both ways.

5. Donate to Silent Auctions

  • A high-ROI strategy that connects you with buyers who value what you do.
  • Use clear disclaimers and coach the auction volunteer for best results.

6. Use Friends & Family for Local Displays

  • Offer artwork in exchange for covering print costs.
  • Build brand presence with displays all over town—without footing the bill yourself.

7. Share What You Know

  • Speak at schools, mom groups, or business events.
  • Become the local expert on portraiture and decorating with photography.

8. Partner with Charities Year-Round

  • Go beyond auctions—build long-term relationships with causes you care about.
  • Gain access to their donor base (who often have disposable income).

9. Get Featured in the Media

  • Pitch meaningful stories to local press—think community impact, unique events, or anniversaries.
  • Third-party credibility builds trust fast.

10. Create a Simple Referral Program

  • Reward clients for sending others your way with meaningful (non-discount) gifts.
  • Keep it easy to understand and exciting to share.

11. Host Strategic Events

  • Think “hammer marketing”—partner with others for a themed, story-based event.
  • Example: “Simply Me,” a black-and-white personality portrait event that generated $38,000 for students.

12. Add Value, Don’t Discount

  • Use thoughtful bonuses like holiday cards or graduation announcements.
  • Preserve your pricing while still giving clients a reason to act now.

13. Use Social Media to Connect, Not Sell

  • Skip the “now booking” posts.
  • Watch your followers’ lives, comment meaningfully, and DM when there’s a fit.

Your Next Step

You don’t need to do all 13 strategies at once. Start with the one that sparked something in your gut and take the first step this week. Marketing doesn’t have to feel desperate or salesy—it can be joyful, strategic, and deeply aligned with the heart of your photography business.

You’ve got this.

RESOURCES

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