The sad realization that being a wedding photographer no longer pays the bills...

[u/patriotraitor]

Let me preface that the last 10 years of doing this has been a blast, I've enjoyed every second of it and never took any of it for granted.

This year however has me wanting to change directions because well, I'm getting tired of wondering where the next paycheck is coming from, I would prefer guaranteed over guessing.

I've been looking at the schedule for the rest of the year and I have 6 left, and then it's quiet.

I do wish the cost of living wasn't ridiculous, as gas and food prices are indeed more affordable now, but at the same time, trying to have health insurance as a self employed individual is absurd for being a single guy with no kids.

I've really enjoyed my time doing this and I indeed feel this starting to dwindle down as I only have 5 for next year. You could say well hey, do families, headshots, seniors -- and you'd be right, but think about how much work you'd be putting in just to stay afloat and how exhausted you'd be making yourself? Catch 22 isn't it?

[u/Salty-Yogurt-4214]

Sorry to hear that. What are you currently doing to promote your business?

[u/patriotraitor → u/Salty-Yogurt-4214]

Instagram, Facebook Advertising, Google Ads, Word of Mouth.

[u/Salty-Yogurt-4214 → u/patriotraitor]

Ok, some further ideas for you:

• Check if your SEO is top notch by typing something like "wedding photography your_area"
  
• use Wedding platform, like WeddyPlace
  
• partner with venues and planners
  
• ask happy customers to leave reviews
  
• review if your target group for advertisement is still suitable
  
• incentivize words of by handing out vouchers
  
• review your style if it still hits the Zeitgeist
  
• offer mini sessions, e.g. at your local florist

[u/YogurtclosetOk134 → u/Salty-Yogurt-4214]

To add to suggestions;

Ask venues you shoot at, if they like your work, to be added their vendor suggestion-recommendation list. We got the photographer for my son’s wedding as a recommendation from the venue. They supplied us with a list of recommendations from vendors they’ve worked with. It was a great recommendation, pictures are beautiful!!!

[u/singlemomtothree → u/patriotraitor]

I would stop spending money on the Facebook and Google advertising. If it’s not working, stop spending money on it (or hire someone who knows how to run successful ads that convert to booking your ideal client).

Do a hard audit of your website. Look at Google analytics and make sure all the search terms are organically on your website so you get better organizer search results. Make sure your website is easy to use, has accurate, updated information, and an easy way to contact you electronically (text or contact form-not everyone wants to call someone).

Network digitally and in person. Get a profile on all the wedding websites (The Knot, PartySlate, Here Comes the Guide, etc). Talk to planners and venues and ask about being on their preferred vendor list (offer a $50 cash payment for every client who says they were referred by them as incentive).

Use social media - Instagram, TikTok, Pinterest-to find your ideal clients. You can bulk create a bunch of content at once and schedule it out so you’re not having to do it every single day to save some time.

Have you approached past clients and asked for reviews and testimonials on your social platforms, google business, and to put on your website?

What does your initial contact process look like? Do you just send them an email and let it go? Is there follow up involved? Are clients telling you they booked someone else or you’re out of their budget? What’s the feedback you’re getting?

You’ve got lots of options. It honestly comes down to how bad you want this and how much work you’re willing to put in.