Online Visibility Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
In these digital times and in busy online spaces, photographers must not only excel at their craft but also get to grips with the art of online marketing. Your digital footprint can significantly impact your business's success. Here, we dissect common online visibility mistakes photographers make and give you actionable solutions on how to avoid them.
Mistake 1: Vague Online Identity in Photography
Many photographers create a website and social media profiles but fail to say what they actually do. Imagine a potential client searching for a wedding photographer in Tunbridge Wells, but your profile just says "Photography Enthusiast" or “Capturing Moments”. This lack of clarity can cost you valuable leads.
Solution: Refine your online presence. Include clear, concise statements about your services. For example, "I specialise in creating unforgettable and memorable Wedding Photography based in Tunbridge Wells, Kent." Use language that resonates with your target audience, making it easier for them to find and choose you.
Mistake 2: Inactive Social Media Business Pages
Setting up a business page on Facebook or Instagram is just the beginning. A common trap photographers fall into is creating these pages and then leaving them dormant. An inactive page can give the impression that your business is outdated or, worse, no longer operating.
Solution: Keep your pages lively and engaging. Share recent work, client testimonials, and useful photography tips. Engage with your audience by asking questions or running polls. This not only keeps your page active but also builds a community around your brand.
Mistake 3: Not Showcasing Work Regularly
Many photographers are shy about their work or worry about not being ‘good enough’ to share. However, not showcasing your photography online is hiding your entire business from the world. Remember, people can't hire you if they don't see your talent. They need to know you exist.
Solution: Overcome the hesitation and start sharing your work regularly. Use platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, or your own blog to showcase your best shots. Share stories behind the photos, the techniques used, or the inspiration behind them, making your posts more engaging and personal.
Mistake 4: Sporadic Online Engagement
Another common oversight is posting erratically or going silent for months. This inconsistency can lead to a decline in follower engagement and make your business seem unreliable.
Solution: Create a posting schedule and stick to it. Whether it’s twice a week or every other day, find a rhythm that works for you and your audience. Consistent engagement keeps your audience interested and can help increase your reach over time.
Mistake 5: Not Sharing the Journey Behind Your Photography
Many photographers post their images without context, missing an opportunity to connect on a deeper level with their audience. People love stories; they want to know the "why" and "how" behind your work.
Solution: Share the story behind each photograph and your photography. Talk about the challenges you faced, the inspiration you drew from, and the satisfaction you felt upon capturing that perfect moment. This can make your work more relatable and inspiring to your audience. And it helps your followers connect with you on a more personal level.
Mistake 6: Underestimating the Power of Networking
Some photographers hesitate to share their ambitions or works with their inner circle. However, word-of-mouth is an incredibly powerful tool, especially in the visual arts industry.
Solution: Open up about your photography business to friends, family, and colleagues. Share your aspirations and recent projects. Engaging with your inner circle can lead to new opportunities, collaborations, and client referrals you might not have found otherwise.
Mistake 7: Displaying Low Confidence in Your Photographic Skills
It's normal to have self-doubt, but projecting a lack of confidence online can deter potential clients. If you don’t seem proud or confident in your work, it can lead clients to question your professionalism and skill.
Solution: Focus on the positive feedback you’ve received and the successes you’ve achieved. Share testimonials and positive reviews from past clients. Highlighting these affirmations not only boosts your confidence but also shows potential clients that you are capable and reliable.
Beyond Capturing Beautiful Images - The Business of Photography
Success in photography isn’t just about your ability to capture beautiful moments; it’s also about effectively marketing those moments. By addressing these common mistakes, you can improve your online visibility, connect more deeply with your audience, and build a more robust, successful photography business.
Hey, I’m Dee Airey and I’m glad you’re here! If you’re a photographer just starting out, why not join my FREE Facebook Community - Wedding & Portrait Photographers Together™ - where I can help you, along with other likeminded photographers, to kickstart and grow your photography business.
Let Me Help You
You can also benefit from my signature coaching community and library of training material in my ClickStart® 4 Membership Programme. There’s lots on the inside that can help you get results, where I give you all the tools I used to start and grow my own successful photography business, which has gone from strength to strength year on year.
If you want to build a wedding photography business, why not think about my online course 7 Steps to Walking Down the Aisle. A low cost, high value course for photographers wanting to create a wedding photography business, jam packed with the information, guidance and training you need to get started, grow and succeed.
Don’t forget to listen to the Podcast. Lots of episodes to inspire you and help you grow. Listen on Spotify. If you want to feature on an episode with me and share your experiences, let me know. It’ll be fun!
I hope to see you soon, inside my community.
