Let’s talk about something most photographers dread: the slow season (you know, January, February and maybe even into March). I get it—the inquiries slow down, the calendar looks a little too open, and you might feel like your business is on pause. And I know your first instinct is to panic!
But here’s the secret: the slow season is actually a golden opportunity to grow your photography business! Yes, you read that right.
I’m about to share five easy and actionable ways you can use this time to set yourself up for massive success. Ready? Let’s dive in.
Five Tips for Growing Your Business
1. Write New Blog Posts
Blogs are a game-changer for your business. Think about it: your clients (and potential clients) are searching for information all the time. Why not be the expert they find?
Write about topics your clients want to know—like tips for preparing for a session, what to wear, or the best family-friendly spots in your area. Check out my blog for inspiration: Family Photography Tips. Bonus points if you use location-specific keywords to boost your SEO. For example, instead of just saying “family photographer,” say “Your Location family photographer.” Blogging is a long game, but the payoff is huge. Plus, you can link these posts in your client emails and guides for added value.
2. Update Your Google Listing
Google is your best friend, so treat it like one! Head to your Google Business Profile and give it some love:
- Add fresh photos.
- Share updates or links to your new blog posts. For example, check out My Favorite Family Session Locations.
- Feature a favorite photo from a location you’d love to shoot at more often.
And don’t forget to double-check that your contact info is up to date. Google loves fresh updates, and it’ll reward you with better visibility.
3. Ask for Google Reviews
Let’s get real: reviews are gold when it comes to attracting new clients. Take this time to send an email to the clients you worked with last year. Ask them to share their experience—but don’t leave it too open-ended. Instead, guide them with specifics:
- The type of session (e.g., newborn, family, or branding).
- Where it took place.
- What their favorite part of the session was.
Not only do these reviews build trust with future clients, but you can also screenshot them and share them on Instagram or your website. Need inspiration? Check out Client Testimonials. It’s a win-win!
4. Write Fun Client Emails
Here’s a hot tip: you don’t always have to sell in your emails. Sometimes, connecting with your audience is even more powerful. Use this time to write fun, engaging emails that build relationships.
Share things like:
- A favorite winter recipe your kids love.
- A funny story from one of your sessions.
- A local activity or tradition you enjoy.
The goal is to let your personality shine and remind your clients why they love you. Connection builds loyalty, and loyal clients come back again and again.
5. Update Your Website Photos
When was the last time you refreshed your website gallery? Use the slow season to add your latest (and greatest) work. But don’t stop there—make sure you’re using keywords in the file names of your photos. For example, instead of “IMG_1234.jpg,” rename it to “your-location-family-photographer.jpg.” Little tweaks like this can make a big difference in your SEO ranking.
Also, take a moment to ensure your website looks polished and reflects your current style. First impressions matter, and your website is often the first thing potential clients see.
The Bottom Line
The slow season isn’t something to fear—it’s a time to get intentional about your business. And if you’re ready to elevate your client experience, grab my free guide: The Client Experience Blueprint! By focusing on these five areas, you’re not just keeping busy; you’re laying the groundwork for long-term success.
So grab your favorite coffee, cozy up, and start checking these off your list. You’ve got this!
