Raise your hand if you’ve ever felt completely invisible in your photography business. 🙋‍♀️

You’re doing all the things—posting on Instagram, updating your website, maybe even dancing awkwardly on TikTok (no judgment, we’ve all been there)—and yet, the bookings just aren’t rolling in the way you hoped.

Here’s the secret no one is talking about: The key to getting noticed isn’t about chasing trends—it’s about making sure the RIGHT people see you in the RIGHT places.

And spoiler alert—it’s NOT about social media.

Let’s dive into the visibility strategy that actually works (and that most photographers completely overlook).

Step 1: Get Seen Where Your Dream Clients Are Actually Looking

Here’s a hard truth: Clients aren’t scrolling Instagram looking for a photographer. They’re searching Google, reading local blogs, and asking their friends for recommendations.

Which means:

• If your website isn’t optimized for search engines (SEO), you’re missing out on ready-to-book clients.
• If you’re not networking with local businesses, you’re missing built-in referrals.
• If you’re relying solely on social media, you’re playing a visibility lottery where the odds are not in your favor.

So, instead of focusing all your energy on chasing likes and followers, shift your efforts to being seen where it actually counts.

Step 2: Master the Magic of SEO (So Google Works for You 24/7)

SEO (search engine optimization) might sound intimidating, but think of it this way: it’s how Google decides which websites show up first when people search for photographers.

Easy ways to boost your SEO today:

✅ Add location-based keywords to your website (e.g., “Austin family photographer” or “Los Angeles wedding photographer”).
✅ Write blog posts that answer common client questions (e.g., “What to Wear for Fall Family Photos”).
✅ Get listed on Google My Business and encourage past clients to leave reviews.

The goal? Make it ridiculously easy for Google to match you with potential clients—so they find you instead of your competitors.

Step 3: Build Partnerships That Work for You (Even When You’re Off the Clock)

One of the most underutilized (and most powerful) visibility strategies? Partnering with other local businesses that serve your ideal clients.

Here’s how to make it work:

• Wedding photographers: Partner with venues, bridal shops, and florists to create referral relationships.
• Family photographers: Connect with pediatricians, preschools, and boutiques that cater to moms.
• Brand photographers: Work with business coaches, co-working spaces, and creative entrepreneurs.

Offer exclusive discounts, cross-promote each other’s services, or host joint events. These partnerships put you directly in front of your ideal clients—without you having to chase them down on social media.

Step 4: Use Email Marketing to Stay Top of Mind

Let’s be honest—social media posts disappear into the abyss within hours (or minutes). But email? That lands directly in someone’s inbox and stays there until they open it.

And if you think email marketing is just for big brands, think again. Photographers who use email marketing book more repeat clients, get more referrals, and stay top-of-mind all year round.

What to send in your emails:

📸 Session openings & mini session announcements
📸 Behind-the-scenes stories & recent client features
📸 Tips & tricks (e.g., “How to Prep for Your Branding Photos”)
📸 Special offers or VIP booking perks

💡 Pro Tip: Use Flodesk (my favorite email marketing platform) to make your emails look STUNNING without any tech headaches. Try it free for + get 50% off with my referral link!

Step 5: Get Featured (Because Third-Party Credibility is GOLD)

You talking about your business? Cool. Other people talking about your business? PRICELESS.

How to get featured:
✔️ Submit your work to photography blogs and local wedding/family magazines.
✔️ Pitch yourself for interviews on relevant podcasts (bonus points if they reach your target audience!).
✔️ Offer to write guest blog posts for local businesses in your niche.
✔️ Get involved in community events and have your work showcased.

The more places you show up, the more clients will start recognizing your name and seeing you as the go-to photographer in your area.

Visibility Doesn’t Have to Feel Like a Chore

Getting seen by your dream clients doesn’t mean chasing trends or trying to go viral. It means being intentional about where you show up and how you position your business.

✔️ Prioritize SEO so people can find you when they’re searching.
✔️ Build partnerships that bring you consistent referrals.
✔️ Use email marketing to stay in touch with past & potential clients.
✔️ Leverage third-party credibility through features & collaborations.

If you’re ready to stop feeling invisible and start booking more clients, listen to my latest podcast episode where I dive even deeper into these strategies!

Now tell me—which of these visibility strategies are you most excited to try? Drop a comment below! 👇