Are you here to learn how to book your first client as a wedding photographer?

First of all, can I congratulate you? I’m so excited for you to begin your journey to becoming a wedding photographer. Becoming a wedding photographer can be a highly rewarding and lucrative career choice. However, I know booking your first client can be a daunting task! In this blog post, we’ll provide some tips to help you book your first wedding photography client so you can be well on your way to being a full time, six figure, incredible photographer!

So let’s dive in to how to book your first client as a wedding photographer.

First – Build your portfolio. Before you can book your first wedding photography client, you need to have a portfolio of work to show them. Your portfolio should showcase your skills and style as a wedding photographer. You can build your portfolio by photographing friends’, family, or putting out model calls for couples! Rather than offering dozens of $50 shoots, I always recommend putting together 2-3 styled shoots that truly reflect what you want your work to look like. That way, your portfolio is curated for your ideal client, rather than a bunch of random shoots. Make sure your editing is always consistent so your clients know what to expect, you can snag our fan favorite #edenstraderpresets here if you’re wanting a clean and consistent look!

Once you’ve gotten comfortable behind the camera, make sure to second shoot or assist other wedding photographers so you can learn how wedding days work and flow! Always double check with the lead photographer that you can use the images (with credit to them) within your own portfolio. Like the above images, which are shot for Deirdre Alston!

Second – Create a website. Having a professional website is essential in today’s digital age. Your website should include your portfolio, information about your services, and contact information. Make sure your website is easy to navigate and visually appealing! You want to make sure that they clearly know who you are, what you do, and why you are the photographer for them.

Third – Use social media. Social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest are powerful tools for reaching potential clients. Make sure your social media profiles are up to date and reflect your brand. Use hashtags and geotags to make it easy for potential clients to find you. Instagram in particular can be incredibly helpful for building relationships not only with potential clients, but vendors that you can connect with! (PS. you can find our Pinterest Freebie here if you’re not sure how to get started!)

Fourth – Network. Make sure you’re creating relationships with other wedding vendors, and mentioning your services online and in person! Offer to photograph events for other vendors, like florists or wedding planners, to build relationships and get your name out there. Everyone is a potential client at the end of the day!

Fifth – Offer a special promotion. Offering a special promotion or discount can be a great way to attract your first clients. Consider offering a discounted package for your first few weddings, or a referral discount to incentivize your clients to recommend you to their friends! Don’t do this often or with lots of jobs, but it’s always a great way to get your first few clients in the door. Special tip? Set your prices a bit higher and then say you’re offering a discount!

Sixth – Be professional. When you do get inquiries from potential clients, make sure you respond promptly and professionally. Be clear about your services and pricing, and make sure your clients feel comfortable asking any questions they may have. Provide a contract and a clear timeline for delivery of photos to set expectations and ensure both parties are on the same page. Try to answer their questions before they even get the chance to ask them! If you’re looking for a great way to improve your client experience so you can easily bring in more referrals – you can grab our pre-wedding questionnaire here.

In conclusion, booking your first wedding photography client takes time and effort, but with the right approach, you’ll be scaling in no time. Promise. Build your portfolio, create a website, use social media, network, offer a special promotion, and be professional. You got this! And if you need a little extra help? Here are some of our favorite free resources!

Let’s Get Lit – the wedding photographers guide to flash and artificial lighting!

The Intuitive Marketing Quiz – learn what marketing tool will work best with your personality!

Manifestation Challenge – a fan favorite on manifesting the business and life of your dreams!

xx