Networking is vital for growing any business, and it’s also a skill to do it successfully. Photographers who want to grow their client base, collaborate with other creatives, and get referrals have to put themselves out there on social media and, more importantly, in person. Here are 6 top networking tips for photographers.
Social Butterflies
Going to breakfast business gatherings, lunchtime meetups, or networking happy hours can be exciting to some, or the worst possible idea on the planet, to others. Whether you are a social butterfly, or a wallflower, there are ways to plan your networking visit to maximize the gain and minimize the pain. The 6 top networking tips for photographers rely on authentic connections and finding the right partners.
Some people may shy away from networking for a variety of reasons. Fear of rejection, being more introverted, not having time, and not knowing how to benefit from networking can keep some business owners away. The whole idea can seem too schmoozy or attention-seeking. Put preconceived networking notions aside and think about it as finding your people.
Of course, the thought of being turned down or ignored can indeed be intimidating. If you are introverted, facing a room full of people can be overwhelming. Not to mention, trekking out to a 7:00 AM speed networking breakfast can seem like a time suck. While these things might seem true, the reality is, if you own a business it is part of your job to connect.
You Don’t Know What’s Out There
Meeting new people – especially in person – opens doors to collaborations, clients, and relationships that you might not find otherwise. If you are in a room with 20 new connections, what are the chances that someone in that room knows someone who recently got engaged, or has a highschool senior, or who needs a headshot?
Engaging with like-minded business owners exposes you to fresh marketing ideas, new communication techniques, and insights about other industries. At the same time, networking exposes YOU to new people. Imagine how many people you haven’t met yet and what the possibilities are. Use the 6 top networking tips for photographers to gain exposure to new business owners who have friends, and families that have photography needs. They just need to meet you!
Meeting people face to face means introducing yourself to strangers, and that’s a great thing. Social media is one way to reach new people, however, if you are not in the same group, neighborhood, or demographic as someone who is looking for event coverage for his top sales team’s reward trip to a Caribbean island, you’re not going to connect, and you are not going on that trip.
Once you find a group that meshes with your business and personality, you’ll find connecting becomes easier. Networking groups offer a sense of community and trust. People hire people they like and trust and if you are the photographer in the community you are the one to go to when jobs arise.
Here are 6 Top Networking Tips for Photographers
1. Set (Reasonable) Actionable Goals
To keep focus on why you are attending these events, consider setting specific goals. Make an effort to talk to others and find the connections. Remember in order to be successful at networking you need to do some work. You’re not looking for new friends, although that’s a bonus, you are looking for new business. We’ve got 6 top networking tips for photographers – but here are some goals to set for each event.
Goal 1 – Meet Three New People
Aim to introduce yourself to at least three attendees and exchange contact information.
Goal 2 – Schedule a Follow-Up
Identify at least one person with whom you can plan a coffee meeting or further discussion.
Goal 3 – Show Gratitude
Thank anyone you connected with for their time and conversation. Even if you’re a newborn photographer and they are a pig farmer, remember it’s about the relationship. There might not be an obvious reason for you to do business together, but being professional and kind will keep you top of mind when the time is right.
2. Frequent Industry Gatherings
These events are great for connecting with people you may like to work with in the future and those who would be good mutual referrals. It’s a great place to find second shooters or get associate photographers gigs. If you find someone who’s similar in style and business practices, you might feel comfortable referring a client if you have other commitments – and they may do the same.
Pro Tip: Go for the party but stay for the connections. Being present at these in-person events allows for authentic connections and helps you stand out among competitors. It’s fun to have fun but stay in control, mind your manners, don’t gossip, and act like a respectable business owner.
3. Have Your Elevator Speech Ready
There are a lot of conversations and activities going on at networking events. Be sure you are concise and specific about what you do. “I’m a photographer,” might get you a wedding at the newest venue, or you might be asked to photograph a collection of antique bird baths.
“I am a professional wedding photographer, specializing in small weddings and elopements. I offer all my couples a professional wedding album of their favorite images, creating their family’s first heirloom. I’m now booking for 2025 and 2026,” leaves less up to the imagination.
If you have a sample album on hand to relay what type of products you offer that’s a great visual impression to make. Showing people professional wedding albums can be great conversation starters and allow you the opportunity to engage with someone for a more meaningful conversation.
4. Look for Power Partners
When participating in networking functions, workshops, and social meet-ups, look for industries that you are most likely to work with. If you are a wedding photographer – look for that videographer or event planner. If you are looking to increase your headshot business connect with a marketer or someone in public relations. A caterer and a florist can connect you to parties and a park district board member or a preschool director can connect you with families.
5. Listen
While it is tempting to talk about you, after all you are there for your own hype, it’s more important to listen and ask questions.
According to Dale Carnegie, in his book, How to Win Friends & Influence People, “You can make more friends in two months by becoming interested in other people than you can in two years by trying to get other people interested in you.” Of the 6 top networking tips for photographers, this might be the most challenging for some but it’s truly a game changer.
Being listened to makes people feel good. It can also allow you an opportunity to learn something new, review if your values align with the person you are listening to, and consider mutual opportunities that you might not have realized if you were doing all the talking.
6. Be Patient
As they say, Rome wasn’t built in a day and likewise, you’re not going to walk into a room and have everyone throwing money at you. It’s called building relationships for a reason. It takes time to move a deal forward and showing frustration when leads aren’t pouring in isn’t helpful. It is doubly unhelpful if you vent your frustration within the group. Nobody likes a grump.
To get over a lag in referral activities, it’s also important to recognize that the need for a service isn’t always immediate. Just like people don’t need to call a plumber every day, photography services are as needed. Be patient and you’ll see your effort pay off if community members trust you, understand what you do, and have you top of mind when their photography needs arise.
The actual value of networking depends on what you put into it and finding the right group of people to connect with. It might take some shopping around to learn where you fit in but the payoff will be worth it. For professional photographers building a strong network takes time and effort, but it’s an investment that pays dividends in the long run. Use these 6 top networking tips for photographers and be genuine, proactive, and consistent in your approach to make lasting connections that benefit your photography career and the growth of your business.
