If the idea of relying on Instagram, TikTok, or other social media platforms to attract photography clients stresses you out, there is some good news. You can actually build a successful photography business without needing to spend endless hours posting and engaging online.
Coming to you from Laura BC, this straightforward video offers practical tips for gaining photography clients without leaning on social media. One key strategy is effective networking, particularly using memorable business cards—not the outdated versions people toss away immediately. She emphasizes that it's not enough just to have attractive cards; you must strategically place them where potential clients frequent. Gyms, yoga studios, and event venues can be goldmines for reaching your target audience.
Another useful tip is attending local events, like farmers' markets, exhibitions, or networking meetups, and offering brief, affordable mini sessions. Laura advises you to carry your camera and actively engage by providing a few free candid photos to the event organizers. This gesture builds goodwill and increases your visibility within the community. She also suggests using flyers to display your standout work—a particularly effective tactic if your photography niche benefits from visual impact. These flyers, much like the business cards, can easily be designed on the same user-friendly platform.
Going deeper into the video, Laura discusses an underutilized yet highly effective approach: forming partnerships and offering referral commissions. She explains clearly how referrals leverage trust—people naturally trust recommendations from those they know. By collaborating with professionals like wedding planners, hairstylists, makeup artists, or personal trainers, you can significantly expand your reach. Offering a commission or trade services incentivizes these professionals to actively promote your photography services. For example, you could trade professional headshots or portfolio images for referrals.
The video doesn't just suggest broad ideas; it provides actionable steps to help you implement these methods. Laura challenges you to leave your business cards in at least three targeted businesses within the next month and to always carry at least five cards to share during casual conversations. She similarly encourages distributing a small batch of flyers at strategic locations, emphasizing consistency over intensity. Check out the video above for the full rundown.
