Find Business, Keep Business and do the Work
The Three Pillars of Building a Photography Business: Find Business, Keep Business, Do the Work
In the world of photography, competition is fierce. There are countless talented photographers out there, all striving for their place in the industry. But here’s the truth: having exceptional skills, unrelenting passion, and a strong drive isn’t enough to sustain a photography business. To truly succeed, you need to master three fundamental pillars: Find Business, Keep Business, and Do the Work.
This lesson hit home for me after taking a course by Greg Williams, a renowned Hollywood photographer. Despite his stellar reputation, even he emphasized the importance of managing his business actively. The key takeaway? You should never stand still. Success comes from constantly adapting and finding the approach that works best for you—whether it’s your main hustle or a side gig.
1. Find Business
The first step is connecting with clients. For me, my primary clients are handymen. How do I find them? Cold calling. It might not sound glamorous, but it works. A simple, direct call can open doors you didn’t even know existed. However, the method you choose should suit your style and target audience. Maybe you feel more comfortable reaching out through LinkedIn, Instagram, or even running Google Ads. Whatever your approach, consistency is key.
2. Keep Business
Landing a client is one thing, but keeping them is another. Building and maintaining relationships is crucial. I regularly conduct interviews with my clients, checking in on their needs and ensuring they’re satisfied with my work. This ongoing dialogue not only builds trust but also establishes you as a reliable partner they can count on.
3. Do the Work
At the end of the day, none of it matters if you don’t deliver. Quality work is your foundation. When you consistently meet or exceed expectations, you build a reputation that can lead to referrals and repeat business. Your dedication and reliability will set you apart in a crowded field.
Find What Works for You
Every photographer’s journey is unique, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to building a business. The most important thing is to identify the clients you want to serve and the best way to reach them. Whether it’s through social media, networking events, or good old-fashioned cold calling, find the method that resonates with you and stick to it.
Never Stop Moving
Building a photography business isn’t easy, but it’s deeply rewarding. Keep finding ways to connect, nurture relationships, and deliver your best work. The road to success is paved with persistence and adaptability.
So, take that first step. Call a potential client, send that DM, or launch that ad campaign. The world is waiting to see what you can create—just make sure you’re out there doing the work to make it happen.
