At TogDrop Solutions, we not only want to help photographers be successful with their backdrops, but we also want to ensure they thrive in every aspect of their business. Getting clients through your studio doors often begins online, where visibility is key. That’s why mastering SEO (Search Engine Optimization) is essential for photographers looking to attract the right clients. By optimizing your website, you can ensure your work shines in front of those searching for your services, bringing clients directly to you. Let’s dive into some common SEO mistakes photographers make and how you can avoid them to enhance your online presence. Let’s here what Clare with CL Content Marketing has to say!
CL Content Marketing: SEO for Photographers
What if clients just came to you?
Is that even possible?
It is with SEO.
SEO stands for Search Engine Optimization. Improving your SEO improves your rankings on Google and means your website is shown in the first results for specific queries. Basically, help Google know what the heck your website is about!! This will only help you and your dream clients!
Many of my clients get their best clients from Google. Why is that? Because these clients are searching for exactly what you offer. They’re searching “family photographer near me” or “when do I take senior photos,” and your website comes up. You have what they’re looking for!
Instead of trying to interrupt someone’s scroll on social media with its pesky algorithms, you’re exactly where your dream clients are looking!
It’s perfect! There’s just one catch. SEO is not a one-and-done process, and it’s not always easy, but it is definitely worth it for your photography business!
I’d love to share the three common SEO mistakes I see photographers make and what you can do about it as well as introduce myself.
Three SEO Mistakes Photographers Make
1. Not Blogging – This one is near and dear to my heart! No, we’re not in the 2010s blogging era. You won’t have people subscribing to your blogs and eagerly waiting for each one to drop. This is our SEO-era blogging! Your blog posts should answer a question asked in Google and focus on one target keyword at a time. Instead of “Smith Family Session,” create a blog post that features the keyword “When to Schedule Your Family Photography Session.” Then, include 500-1,000 words of copy that shares the ins and outs of when to schedule their family photography session and why. Include a call to action paragraph at the end!
2. Not Adding Alt Text to Images – What is alt text!? Alt text is an alternative text that a reader could use to read the image description to a visually impaired person. If you go through and add an image description, you’re helping someone be able to view your website AND giving Google more information about what’s on the page. Just name your alt text as naturally as you can while working in the keyword.
3. Not Enough Copy – Your work is BEAUTIFUL! You want to show it off, and that’s what your dream client is interested in any way, right? Well, you still need to add a copy. I’ve seen way too many photographer sites with little to NO copy across the website. Especially on the homepage! While your work certainly speaks for itself, it’s important to add copy that includes your target keyword (one per page, or you’ll confuse Google… and any readers). If there’s little to no copy, Google will have a hard time knowing what to rank the page for.
Why is SEO Important for Photographers
According to the Professional Photographers of America Benchmark Study, 25% of clients found their photographers through a Google search. That’s after asking family and friends which was how 35% of clients found their photographer. If you’re not optimized for search engines, you could be missing out on your dream clients! I certainly don’t want that for you. Even if you tackle the three things listed above, you’re on your way to improving your rankings in search engines and finding the best clients.
Meet Claire Lauer of CL Content Marketing
It’s about time I introduced myself to you! My name is Claire Lauer, and I help photographers with their SEO. In fact, I believe so strongly in SEO for photographers that I’ve doubled down and specialized my business in this area. I have clients who are now number one for their target keyword and clients who happily share with me that Google is their number one lead source! You’re welcome to join my online community here or visit my website here.
A Bit About Claire
I live in Wisconsin with my husband and two little girls! I drink too much cold brew coffee (remember, I have two little girls.) You’ll find me with a book in my hands more than not. I try to read 52 books a year! You’re welcome to hang out on Instagram to learn more.
Photo Credits: All images by Julie Collins Photography
