If there’s one question photographers ask me more than any other, it’s this: “Alison, what’s your advice for how to get more photography clients?” Whether you’re just starting out, relocating to a new area after a military move, or simply hitting a booking plateau, finding consistent clients remains the biggest challenge for most photographers.
As someone who has built and rebuilt my photography business 7 times across 5 states and 2 overseas locations, I’ve become something of an expert on attracting clients in any market. The struggle is real—but it doesn’t have to be permanent. Let me share battle-tested strategies from my “39 Ways to Get More Clients” guide that have helped me go from charging $150 for all-inclusive sessions to running a six-figure photography business.
In This Article
Start with SEO: The Foundation for How to Get More Photography Clients
When photographers ask me how to get more photography clients consistently, I always point to SEO (Search Engine Optimization) first. Why? Because as my guide explains, it’s your “first stop” and the most evergreen source of inquiries.
On my 7th business move, I had my first paying client within just 30 days of launching and was in the top 5 Google search results in only 9 months. By the 13-month mark, I had reached the coveted #1 position!
Here’s my approach to SEO success:
- Blog strategically: Create content that answers questions your ideal clients are asking
- Optimize on-page elements: Use location-specific keywords naturally throughout your site
- Build citations: Ensure your business information is consistent across directories
- Secure backlinks: Partner with other local businesses for mentions and links
- Keep your Google Business Profile updated: This is crucial for local searches
Remember what Marie Forleo says: “Success doesn’t come from what you do occasionally, it comes from what you do consistently.” While SEO takes time to “bake in,” the long-term payoff makes it worth starting here.
In-Person Networking: Building Real Communities
The second section of my guide focuses on in-person networking, which is especially important when you’re trying to figure out how to get more photography clients in a new location.
Rather than staying behind your computer, try these proven approaches:
- Join your local Chamber of Commerce: Connect with other business owners
- Volunteer your services: Partner with nonprofits, schools, or community events
- Create pop-ups with brick & mortar shops: Find businesses that share your target demographic
- Partner with complementary professionals: Build relationships with vendors who serve the same clients
- Participate in fundraisers: Get involved with galas, fun runs, and community events
These in-person connections create the community foundation needed to generate word-of-mouth referrals—often the highest-quality leads for photographers.
Virtual Networking: Beyond Social Media
While most photographers immediately think of Instagram when discussing how to get more photography clients online, my guide’s third section highlights other virtual networking opportunities:
- Join photography professional groups: Build relationships with others in the industry
- Host virtual giveaways: Collaborate with other service providers or shops
- Guest blog or podcast: Share your expertise with established audiences
- Add value to local Facebook groups: Provide helpful advice without self-promotion
- Interview local businesses: Create content that highlights others with similar target markets
These strategies help you build an online presence without solely relying on social media algorithms that change constantly.
I’m Alison, the “Wild Card”
On the phone with a business coach, he validated all my frustrations saying, “The good news is you’re doing everything right. The bad news is you’re already doing everything. You’re a bit of a wild card.”
I’ve relaunched my photography business 7 times over 5 states and 2 overseas. From being all-inclusive photographer charging just $150 to running a six-figure business where clients happily invest thousands per session, I’ve experience the full spectrum of this industry.
Each move is a masterclass in adapting. Use my experience to stop guesswork and start growing.
Create Events That Attract Your Ideal Clients
Section four of my guide covers events—a powerful strategy for how to get more photography clients through direct interaction. These can be done independently or in collaboration with other businesses:
- Host model calls: Generate portfolio content while introducing new people to your work
- Offer mini-sessions: Create limited-time opportunities with lower barriers to entry
- Run targeted giveaways: Design contests that attract your specific ideal client
- Partner with schools or sports teams: Offer mini-sessions as fundraisers
- Donate to silent auctions: Get exposure to new audiences through charity events
Events create urgency and excitement while allowing potential clients to experience your work firsthand.
Strategic Social Media: Quality Over Quantity
While social media isn’t the only way to get more photography clients, it remains an important tool when used correctly. Section five of my guide emphasizes consistency over volume:
- Choose platforms intentionally: Focus on where your ideal clients actually spend time
- Create content that showcases your personality: Clients hire YOU, not just your photography
- Use location-specific hashtags: Help local clients find you
- Create shareable content: Design posts that clients will want to share with their networks
- Engage authentically: Build relationships rather than just broadcasting
Remember my advice: “Don’t get overwhelmed here. Consistency is better than quantity. Do what is FUN, not burdensome. And certainly don’t do them all.”
Traditional Marketing Approaches Still Work
Section six of my guide covers traditional marketing ideas that many photographers overlook when considering how to get more photography clients:
- Earn professional certifications: Build credibility in your specialty
- Pitch to local media: Offer seasonal photo tips to morning shows or newspapers
- Teach community workshops: Share your expertise at MOPS groups or libraries
- Send out press releases: Announce special events or achievements
- Network with complementary businesses: Build referral relationships
These approaches often face less competition than oversaturated online channels.
Strategic Paid Marketing: Invest Wisely
The final section of my guide covers paid marketing options for photographers who have some budget to invest:
- Sponsor youth sports teams: Get your logo in front of parents regularly
- Place ads in targeted Facebook groups: Become a trusted service provider
- Use Google Ads strategically: Target specific location-based searches
- Implement retargeting: Stay in front of people who’ve already visited your site
- Join relevant directories: List your business where ideal clients are already searching
As my guide notes, “These ideas will cost you money up front, so assess your return on investment wisely.”
This Isn’t Easy, But You’re Not Alone
Building a photography business that consistently attracts clients takes work. As I share in my guide, “If it was easy, more people would be in business longer than 3-5 years. Most people will say it takes 3-5 years just to get stable.”
But you don’t have to figure out how to get more photography clients all on your own. I’ve compressed my experience from seven business relocations to help you avoid the mistakes I made and implement strategies that actually work.
Whether through my one-on-one mentoring, my Keep It Moving podcast, or resources like my “39 Ways to Get More Clients” guide, I’m committed to helping photographers like you build sustainable, profitable businesses—no matter where you’re located.
Remember my favorite quote from the guide: “Do something today that your future self will thank you for.” Taking consistent action on even one strategy for how to get more photography clients can transform your business over time.
Ready to stop guessing and start growing? Download my free “39 Ways to Get More Clients” guide or reach out directly. I personally respond to every email I receive at alison@alisonbellphotographer.com.
Your successful, client-filled photography business is possible—let’s make it happen together!
More Photography Business Resources
- 5 Reasons Why You Need a Photography Business Coach When Relocating Your Business
- How to Start a Photography Blog And Boost SEO
- 39 Proven Ways: How to Get More Photography Clients Without Burning Out
- Mastering SEO Keywords For Photographers: A Step-By-Step Guide
- 6 Game-Changing Benefits of Photography Mentoring
- The Ultimate Relocating a Business Checklist for Photographers in 9 Steps
I'm a USMC spouse, South Carolina native, recovering homeschool mama of a 4 boy circus. They've taught me the most important facet of family photography: KEEP IT FUN!
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