So you’re dying to become a fellow Lightroom Lush, or maybe a Photoshop Fanatic, heck maybe none of the above and instead you want to pamper yourself (because hey, YOU FREAKIN’ DESERVE IT!!!) but you don’t have the cash to invest…. no problem-o, let me help!
Here are 5 tips to help you make a few buckaroos lickety-split (even if you choose not to invest in one of our courses that’s okay – let’s make you some money, honey!!):
1. Make a Quick Buck from Past Clients
Hopefully you’ve been maintaining great client records, especially email addresses because those babies can come in extra handy when money is tight. If you’re already using email software like Mailchimp adding new contacts as you book them, this tip will be extra easy to put to good use. If not, start compiling a list of client email addresses and get ready to put forth a little extra time and effort. Either way, I suggest you get cracklackin’ - Email marketing should be your first marketing priotity!
Here’s what you wanna do: Come up with a great incentive to offer past clients and then reach out to them via email with your limited time offer. Important – Let clients know that this special offer is a way for you to express your gratitude for their support over the past year(s). It’ll make them feel uber special (which they are, right?!!)!
Offers can be anything you dream up… but here’s a few ideas to get you started:
Offer a special on photo enlargements or canvases from a previous session. (FYI – CG Pro Prints offers great prices on canvas – love them!)
Introduce a new product such as photo jewelry, photo handbags, or Zin Frames and offer an introductory sale price!
Help past clients get a jumpstart on their holiday cards! Allow them to use image(s) from a previous session for their cards or give them the option to book their Christmas mini’s early and SAVE!
Offer gift cards towards a future session (also makes a great gift – the holidays are just around the corner!) Say $150 GC for only $100 or what have you… the choice is yours!!
We just adore Zin Frames – I mean how can you not?!
2. Give Photo Parties a Whirl!
This is a great way to get people marketing for YOU!! All you gotta do is find one person who would absolutely love to host a party and get a free session; let your client do the hard work for you. BAM! Take a peek at Art With Jennie for inspiration on running your next photo party…
3. Rock Out With Some Mini Sessions!!
The holidays are right around the corner… start booking Halloween or Christmas mini’s now. Check out these 8 great tips to help you sell out your mini sessions!
4. Try Something NEW
Are you a family photographer looking to branch out into the world of boudoir photography? Let your fans and past clients know by giving them one sweet deal to help you build your portfolio!!
If you begin to slow down in the fall and find yourself virtually out of work between November and February (or May, the way Mother Nature has been toying with winter these past few years!), wedding photography may be something to consider. While wedding season may slow a little, it typically does not come to a halt like outdoor family sessions do in the winter.
How pretty is a snow-covered wedding with ruby red and emerald accents? Le sigh. Consider trying your hand at second shooting some weddings for experience, even if you aren’t interested in shooting weddings on your own, second shooting can be a way to make a little extra money, and who knows, maybe you’ll unleash a new passion!
Click to view this gorgeous Winter Wedding Session by AK Studio & Design!! (Soooo in LOVE!)
5. Sell Some Sh!t
Are you a prop-a-holic? Maybe you have a fetish for cute backdrops (like I do)! Or perhaps you’ve got gear you have never used or maybe even outgrown? SELL IT!!! Head over to the PC Marketplace and see if you can make a deal OR host a prop destash on your Facebook page – heck, you can even join this awesome FB destach group.
And hey, if you enjoy photographing nature, maybe it is time to try your hand at selling prints – I mean why not?!
I’m a bit of a craft show junkie, and I always see photographers there. Do a little research and try buying a booth at a nearby show; you just might find a new niche that brings in a little extra income! Bonus: even if people don’t buy your prints, you might book some extra sessions!! Put your best foot forward and consider offering a discount or special to anyone that you meet at the show and wind up calling a client. Check here for some tips on selling at craft shows.
If local shows aren’t an option, try hitting up local small businesses. Coffee shops, clothing boutiques, pet stores, whatever. Arrange an opening where you team up with the shop to spread the word about your business! Invite friends, family, past clients, and put up some sort of promotional material in the shop. Not only will you generate buzz about your business, but you may have a couple bites at the shots you have on display.
There you have it, a few quick tips to help YOU make a few extra buckaroos lickety-split!
Don’t forget, our popular e-course, The Lightroom Lush is now open for enrollment!!
If you’re ready to shave 2 hours off your editing time and streamline your workflow to the point where it almost doesn’t seem fair, craft incredible images in Lightroom easily, bringing your creative vision to life with consistency and speed and possibly never open Photoshop again…then enroll here!
This course will not be offered to the public again until early 2015. So whatcha say… are you ready to become a fellow Lightroom Lush?!