.png)
It’s inevitable. At some point while you’re doing this photography thing business will be slow. You might be really busy when it’s warm out and then winter comes and you’re left twiddling your thumbs while your camera gathers dust in your office.
Part of being your own boss means that business will have its ups and downs, especially toward the beginning. My theory is that you should expect it, but not accept it. You can still do so many things that can be productive for your business. Sometimes I even look forward to a little downtime so I can have a break and catch up on other tasks that are equally as important as taking photos for clients. Since you own your own business you won’t have the luxury of waiting around for things to pick up – you’re going to have to make these things happen.
Here’s a few tips that can help you stay afloat during the slow times.
1. Expand your products and services. Maybe boudoir is a good type of photography for you to pursue in the off months or maybe you want to offer other prints, albums, and products to your clients. Now’s the time to start researching these things and figuring out how you want to offer them!
2. Work on your Website. If you don’t have one, build one. Websites often take quite a bit of time to develop so if you have the time, you should work on it.
3. Evaluate your customer service. Are there things you can add to your service? Do you send thank you cards to all your clients? Have you considered providing client gifts? What extras can you add to the service you already provide?
4. Plan more marketing. Now is the time to get your name out and start building a client base for when things do get busy. Don’t have a blog? Maybe now is the time to start one. Write some blog posts you can post throughout the next couple months and have them done ahead of time. Connect with some other photographers or wedding vendors that might help you get business.
5. Learn a new skill. Rent some camera equipment and play around with it to see what you like. Practice some new techniques.
6. Get organized. All that accounting work you’ve been saving for later? Get it ready for tax season!
7. Take up a new hobby. If you have the free time not only can you use that time to better your business, but you can use it to better yourself. The happier you are personally the more happy your customers and clients will be with you.
8. Keep a positive attitude. Don’t let the slow times get you down, look at the slow time as an opportunity to do some things you wouldn’t have otherwise.
9. De-clutter! Go through those props and get rid of the ones you don’t like, clean out your desk, and spruce up your office!
10. Practice! Find some friends or family who will let you photograph them for free and practice!
In one week we’ll be starting the 31 Days to a Better Business Online Workshop. Space is limited to only 10 attendees and there are still spaces left. If you’re not signed up, jump in and sign up now!
Tonight’s class is all about pricing! If you struggle with a pricing plan or figure out how to price your projects – join in this class!
