How you can support your family photographer without spending money
Recently it came to my attention that it's ok to be my introvert self while working as a photographer. While it's a huge relief, I also have to acknowledge that because I'm an introvert I need support from others for my photography business to succeed.
The thing is, practically no one knows about documentary family photography. Not many search for these sessions on Google. And even more so, many families feel uncomfortable with a posed session or dressing up for their pictures – they don't even start looking for a photographer because they don't know there is an alternative out there.The families I work with are really the best support I could ask for, not only because I'm terrible at tooting my own horn, but because they have had the experience. They KNOW just how special these pictures are.
The truth is, a lot of photographers struggle with marketing. Social media is tricky like that – it might look like photographers are really busy. But it's not really a great sales tactic to admit that you're going through a slow slump.If you would love to support your favorite photographers, here are some tips on how you can do it without spending any money:
Write a testimonial and/or review, if you've had a session with them
It can be hard for families to find the right photographer for them in a sea of websites and Instagram accounts. When you write about your experience with your photographer, you are helping other families make their choice.In your testimonial, you could include information like why you picked your photographer, what your session experience was like, and who you would recommend them to. You can find a more thorough guide to writing a review or testimonial here.If you'd like to write a testimonial for your photographer to be able to use for their website, you can email it straight to them. If you'd like to write them a review, you can do that on Google, Facebook, or Yelp.
Tag and/or credit your photographer
When you post your pictures on social media, tag or credit your photographer.
Comment, like, and share blog posts or pictures
With Facebook making it harder and harder for business page posts to show up to followers without paying for advertising, it is super helpful if you are commenting, liking or sharing posts your photographer is posting.
Talk about your photographer to your friends
Oh no, I don't mean that you have to pester your friends and family to hire a photographer out of the blue. But if you have a friend who needs a photographer and who you think would connect with your photographer's work, they'll be grateful that they don't need to scour the Internet for one.
Give your photographer helpful feedback
If you think there's anything your photographer could do to improve the experience for their families, don't be afraid to share your ideas with them.Thank you so much for reading, I hope you feel equipped to support your favorite photographers!