![Photographer: how to post engaging content [content idea list]](http://onlineyougrow.com/cdn/shop/articles/cov-marketing-plan-4_b7b5e07a-bae2-408e-9855-0cf03c4b4524.png?v=1715865664&width=1100)
Facebook and Instagram are not just for likes and fun—they're powerful tools that the best photographers in the world use strategically to attract clients.
We know you're busy capturing moments and the thought of managing social media might feel like another burden.
But here's the deal: you don't need to be a marketing expert or spend a fortune to make it work. Just a few minutes a day can bring a couple of new clients to your portfolio.
To help you out we have built a free list of content ideas - also, for a full action plan, please check our strategy pack for photographers.
Get the content idea list made for photographers
A lot of photographers manage to post engaging content on social media. Here is a free tool to to get you started.
Content that always work well for a photographer
We have analyzed numerous photographers' social media accounts to create our strategy pack for photographers - here is what consistently drives engagement and attracts new clients.
| Content Type | Why It Works to Get New Clients for Your Photography Business |
|---|---|
| High-Quality Portfolio Shots | Showcasing your best work with visually stunning images can captivate potential clients and demonstrate your skills. |
| Behind-the-Scenes Videos | Giving a glimpse into your photoshoots and editing process builds trust and creates a connection with your audience. |
| Client Testimonials | Positive reviews and testimonials from satisfied clients provide social proof and encourage others to book your services. |
| Special Offers and Promotions | Announcing limited-time discounts or package deals can attract new clients looking for a good deal. |
| User-Generated Content | Sharing photos taken by your clients or featuring their stories engages the community and adds authenticity to your brand. |
| Local Collaborations | Partnering with local businesses or influencers can introduce your photography services to a broader, local audience. |
| Event Announcements | Promoting upcoming photoshoots, workshops, or exhibitions can attract new clients interested in unique experiences. |
| Seasonal and Holiday Posts | Highlighting seasonal themes or holiday specials can attract clients looking for specific types of photoshoots during those times. |
| Interactive Content | Polls, quizzes, and Q&A sessions engage followers and create a sense of community, encouraging them to book your services. |
| Photography Tips | Sharing tips and tricks for taking better photos can engage followers who are photography enthusiasts and hobbyists. |
| Daily Updates | Regularly updating followers with new work or behind-the-scenes content keeps your photography business top-of-mind and encourages inquiries. |
| Behind-the-Scenes Staff Stories | Featuring stories about your team members creates a personal connection and humanizes your brand. |
| Editing Tutorials | Sharing editing techniques and tutorials can engage followers who are interested in improving their own photography skills. |
| Sustainability Initiatives | Highlighting eco-friendly practices or sustainable projects appeals to environmentally conscious clients. |
| Client Spotlights | Featuring regular clients creates a sense of community and makes others want to be part of that group. |
| Contests and Giveaways | Running contests and giveaways can increase engagement and attract new followers, many of whom may convert into clients. |
Some photographers make 5x more profit than you!
We have studied the strategies of the best photographers in the world. Replicate them now!
How can photographers make great content on social media?
What to Prioritize
You probably know it already, but high-quality photos and videos are essential for showcasing your photography skills.
People are drawn to visually stunning images. Make sure the lighting is perfect, the composition is strong, and the subject is captivating.
Also, post regularly to keep your audience engaged. It doesn’t have to be daily, but find a schedule that works for you and stick to it. We have prepared a free social media planner for you.
Of course, respond to comments and messages quickly. People appreciate interaction and it makes them feel valued. Don’t just be another “bland” account.
Show the real side of your photography business. Behind-the-scenes shots, stories about your creative process, and client shoutouts can create a personal connection with your audience.
If you want to keep your potential clients excited, highlight any special projects, events, or seasonal shoots. Make sure your followers know what’s new and exciting.
Finally, share positive reviews and testimonials. Social proof is powerful and can help attract new clients.
An example of our marketing pack for photographers
What Doesn’t Matter as Much
Overly polished content does not really matter. Your posts don’t need to be perfect. Authenticity can be more engaging than highly produced content.
Also, don’t feel pressured to jump on every social media trend. Focus on what fits your photography style and what your audience likes.
If you have a low budget to conduct marketing for your photography business, don’t immediately go for paid Ads. Organic reach can still be effective with good content and engagement. You will find tons of tactics and strategies in our strategy pack for photographers.
How to Do It Fast and Efficiently
First, spend a few hours once a week taking photos, recording videos, and drafting posts. This way, you’re not scrambling daily.
Use Scheduling Tools - tools like Buffer or Hootsuite can schedule posts in advance, saving you time.
Repurpose and use the same content across different platforms. A photo on Instagram can be a post on Facebook or a tweet on Twitter.
Encourage clients to share their own photos and tag your photography business. This is what we call “User-Generated Content”. Reposting these can save you time and build community.
Use apps like Canva for quick and easy graphic design, or Lightroom for photo editing. These tools can make your content look professional with minimal effort.
Low-budget content ideas for photographers on social media
Our team has curated a list of highly specific, low-budget content ideas tailored for photographers, complete with practical tips to keep costs down and effectively use social media.
You might want to incorporate some of these ideas in the marketing plan of your photography business.
| Content Type | Tips to Make It More Affordable |
|---|---|
| Smartphone Photography | Utilize natural light by shooting near windows during the day. Enhance your photos with free apps like Snapseed or VSCO. |
| Client Testimonials | Ask satisfied clients to leave a quick video testimonial on their phone. Offer a small discount on their next session as a thank-you. |
| User-Generated Content | Encourage clients to share their photos by offering a monthly raffle for those who tag your photography business on Instagram. |
| DIY Photography Tips | Film short, simple tutorials on photography techniques using a smartphone and a basic tripod. Use free editing software like iMovie or OpenShot. |
| Behind-the-Scenes Stories | Use Instagram Stories or Facebook Live to give a real-time look at your photoshoots or editing process during slow hours. |
| Daily Photo Posts | Design simple, eye-catching graphics for daily photo posts using free tools like Canva. Include a brief description and a captivating photo. |
| Photographer Spotlights | Feature team members with a casual photo and fun facts about them. Use your smartphone and a natural setting in your studio or on location. |
| Simple Polls and Questions | Engage followers with free Instagram or Facebook polls about their favorite photography styles or suggestions for new services. |
| Local Event Promotions | Collaborate with local events by offering a small discount or coupon. Cross-promote each other's content to reach a wider audience. |
| Community Involvement Posts | Post photos and short stories about your participation in local charity events or partnerships with community organizations. |
| Client Spotlights | Highlight loyal clients with their favorite photos. Take a quick photo and share a short story about their experience with your photography services. |
| Styled Photo Shoots | Create attractive settings using inexpensive items like props from dollar stores. Experiment with different themes and styles. |
| Sustainability Tips | Share eco-friendly practices such as using digital proofs or eco-friendly printing options. Create simple infographics with free tools like Canva. |
| Editing Process Videos | Record short clips of your editing process, such as color correction or retouching. Compile them into a quick video using free tools. |
| Simple Contests and Giveaways | Run social media contests where participants like, share, or tag friends to win a free mini-session. Use prizes that are cost-effective like a free print. |
| Seasonal Photo Posts | Highlight seasonal themes and settings using natural light and your smartphone camera. Share the story behind the shoot to add interest. |
Copy the tactics of the best photographers in the world!
There are photographers that make way more money than you do. We have studied their tactics. Get them now!
Exceptionally creative and innovative content ideas specifically for photographers
Investing in high-quality social media content for your photography business can be a game-changer. Many photographers might not take this step, giving you a unique opportunity to stand out, capture attention, and build a loyal client base.
| Content Type | Why It Could Bring a LOT of Clients |
|---|---|
| Behind-the-Scenes Shoots | Sharing behind-the-scenes footage of your photoshoots can create a sense of transparency and trust, showing potential clients your process and professionalism. |
| Interactive 360° Studio Tours | Offering virtual 360° tours of your studio can provide a unique behind-the-scenes experience and entice clients to book a session with you. |
| Limited Edition Print Releases | Creating buzz with limited edition or seasonal print releases available for a short time can generate excitement and urgency, attracting new and repeat clients. |
| Exclusive Client Experiences | Offering exclusive experiences, such as a personalized photo session with unique props or locations, can create memorable moments and word-of-mouth referrals. |
| AR Photo Previews | Implementing augmented reality (AR) technology to show clients a 3D preview of their photos can enhance the experience and attract tech-savvy customers. |
| Themed Photo Sessions | Hosting themed photo sessions, such as seasonal or holiday shoots, can provide a unique and immersive experience, attracting groups and special occasions. |
| Photo Challenge Contests | Organizing photo challenge contests (e.g., best pet photo) can create viral moments, attracting competitive participants and spectators. |
| Collaborative Projects | Partnering with other local artists or businesses to host collaborative projects can introduce your photography to new audiences and create a buzz in the community. |
| Story-Driven Social Media Posts | Sharing in-depth stories about your photography journey, the inspiration behind your work, or the stories of your clients can create an emotional connection with your audience. |
| Interactive Photo Selection | Allowing clients to choose their favorite photos via social media polls can make them feel involved and eager to see the final results. |
| Eco-Friendly Initiatives | Launching and promoting eco-friendly initiatives, such as using sustainable materials for prints or offering digital-only packages, can attract environmentally conscious clients and media attention. |
| Mobile Photo Booths | Operating a mobile photo booth at different locations or events can expand your reach and attract new clients who may book a full session later. |
| Photo Subscription Service | Offering a subscription service where clients receive monthly photo tips, tutorials, or exclusive content can create a loyal client base. |
| Immersive Photography Workshops | Hosting workshops where clients can learn advanced photography techniques from you can attract photography enthusiasts and create a sense of exclusivity. |
| Flash Mob Photo Sessions | Organizing flash mob photo sessions in unexpected locations can create viral content and attract adventurous clients looking for unique experiences. |
Content that never works well for photographers on social media
Don't waste your time and resources on these ideas. We've seen many photographers make these mistakes, and they won't help you stand out from the crowd or bring in new clients for your photography business.
| Content Type | Why It Never Works for Photographers | Do This Instead |
|---|---|---|
| Generic Stock Photos | They lack originality and can make your portfolio appear unremarkable or untrustworthy. | Showcase your own work to highlight your unique style and build a genuine connection with potential clients. |
| Overly Promotional Posts | Constantly pushing promotions can feel spammy and turn off followers. | Mix in engaging content like behind-the-scenes stories, client testimonials, and interactive posts to keep your audience interested. |
| Unrelated Content | Posting content that has nothing to do with photography confuses followers and dilutes your brand. | Keep your content focused on your photography, projects, events, and related topics to maintain relevance and interest. |
| Low-Quality Videos | Poorly shot or edited videos can reflect badly on your photography skills and professionalism. | Invest in basic video equipment or hire a local videographer to produce high-quality videos that showcase your work positively. |
| Political or Controversial Posts | These can alienate parts of your audience and lead to negative backlash. | Stick to neutral, positive content that focuses on your photography, community, and unique offerings. |
| Too Many Hashtags | Overusing hashtags can look desperate and reduce engagement by making posts look cluttered. | Use a few relevant, targeted hashtags to increase visibility without overwhelming your audience. |
| Automated Replies and Messages | They can come off as impersonal and frustrate clients looking for genuine interaction. | Respond personally to comments and messages to show that you care about your clients and value their feedback. |
| Overly Staged Photos | Photos that look too perfect can seem inauthentic and less relatable. | Use natural lighting and casual settings to make your photos feel more genuine and inviting. |
| Constant Self-Promotion | Only talking about your services can bore followers and reduce engagement. | Share user-generated content, collaborate with local businesses, and highlight community involvement to diversify your content. |
| Negative or Defensive Responses | Responding poorly to criticism can damage your reputation and discourage potential clients. | Address negative feedback calmly and constructively, showing that you are willing to improve and value client input. |
| Ignoring Social Media Trends | Being out of touch with current trends can make your photography seem outdated and unappealing. | Stay updated with social media trends and incorporate them creatively into your content strategy to keep your audience engaged and excited. |
| Excessive Posting | Posting too frequently can overwhelm your followers and lead to unfollows. | Maintain a consistent but moderate posting schedule, ensuring each post adds value and keeps your audience looking forward to your updates. |
| Complex or Confusing Promotions | Promotions that are hard to understand can frustrate clients and deter participation. | Offer simple, clear, and straightforward promotions that are easy for clients to grasp and engage with. |
| Ignoring Comments and Messages | Not engaging with your audience can make them feel undervalued and reduce their loyalty. | Regularly respond to comments and messages to build a strong, interactive community around your photography business. |
Make your photography service more profitable
We have studied the strategies of the best photographers in the world. All their tactics are explained in our pack!
Why social media can be a big pay-off for your photography service
We understand that as a photographer, you might feel hesitant about diving into social media marketing.
The world of social media can seem foreign and filled with confusing jargon. You might believe that it's more suited for big corporations rather than small businesses like yours.
The day-to-day demands of running a photography business are already overwhelming, leaving little time for additional tasks like social media.
It's common to think that social media marketing is an expensive endeavor, one that your tight profit margins can't support. Plus, the sheer number of social media platforms can lead to indecision and skepticism, especially if previous efforts haven't yielded the results you hoped for.
That's why we've created a "marketing pack" specifically designed for photographers like you.
Our pack addresses all the issues you might face, offering simple, cost-effective strategies that don't require a marketing expert or a big budget for your photography business. These documents are straightforward and easy to understand, cutting through the jargon and focusing on what really works for small photography businesses on social media.
We provide clear, actionable steps for creating engaging posts, building a loyal following, and boosting your photography business's visibility online.
With our marketing pack, you can invest in your photography business's growth without feeling overwhelmed or uncertain.
Your photography service could make more money!
Most photographers don't know how to grow their business. Let us teach you the right strategies.
