1. Google Maps / Local SEO
If you’re a local photographer, this is gold. Optimize your Google Business Profile with great photos, keywords, and reviews. When someone searches “wedding photographer near me,” you want to show up. Post regularly, respond to reviews, and keep your info updated.
2. Partnerships With Other Businesses
Team up with venues, planners, florists, or anyone who serves your ideal clients. (See: get clients as a photographer.) Offer to photograph their space in exchange for referrals. Build relationships where both businesses benefit.
3. Help Your Clients Get Their Own Clients
Give your clients content they can use for their own marketing. If you shoot for a restaurant, provide images they can post. They’ll love you for it and come back for more.
4. Cold Outreach (Done Right)
Research businesses or people who need your services. Send a personalized message with value first , not a sales pitch. Show you understand their needs and offer a solution. Quality over quantity.
5. Warm Outreach to Past Clients
Your past clients are your easiest source of new business. Check in, offer a new service, or ask for referrals. Stay top of mind without being pushy.
6. Organic Instagram Content
Post consistently with value-driven content: tips, behind-the-scenes, client results, and stories. Use hooks that stop the scroll. Engage with your audience. Instagram is a long-term game, but it works. (See: Instagram DM scripts for photographers.)
7. Paid Ads (When and How)
Ads work when you have a clear offer and a simple funnel. Start small, test your messaging, and track your ROI. Don’t run ads until you know your organic content converts.
8. Word of Mouth (How to Engineer It)
Give people a reason to talk about you. Deliver exceptional experiences, ask for referrals at the right moment, and make it easy for clients to recommend you.
9. Physical Location Strategy
If you have a studio or office, make sure it’s visible and inviting. Use signage, window displays, and local foot traffic to your advantage.
10. On-Location Marketing
When you’re shooting on location, be professional and personable. People will notice and ask for your card. Bring business cards and a portfolio on your phone.
11. Community Posts
Post in local Facebook groups, WhatsApp groups, or online communities where your target audience hangs out. Offer value first, then mention your services naturally.
The Most Important Principle
Marketing isn’t about doing everything. It’s about doing a few things consistently and well. Pick 2-3 strategies that fit your strengths and your audience, then commit to them for 90 days before changing course.
Need Help Building Your Marketing System?
If you’re overwhelmed or not sure where to start, book a free strategy call. I’ll help you identify the best marketing channels for your business and create a simple plan you can actually execute.
Book your free call here → https://www.sameyeam.info/call/
Related Resources
Read Sam’s Client Case Studies
See What You Get Working With Sam
Related: Cold outreach templates | Content strategy | Instagram coaching (See: photography website guide.)