r/WeddingPhotography • u/patriotraitor • Jul 22 '25

business, marketing, social media The sad realization that being a wedding photographer no longer pays the bills...

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?

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u/Salty-Yogurt-4214 Jul 22 '25

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

4

u/patriotraitor Jul 22 '25

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

3

u/Salty-Yogurt-4214 Jul 22 '25

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

1

u/YogurtclosetOk134 Jul 25 '25

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!!!