Why Your Photography Business Isn't Growing and How to Fix It

Are you struggling to grow your photography business? Do you feel like you're doing everything right with your marketing, but you're not getting the results you want? In this article, we'll explore the root of the problem and provide actionable tips to help you improve your product and service to bring in more referrals.

The Root of the Problem

According to a survey by PhotographyTalk, 60% of photographers struggle with finding new clients. However, many photographers spend all their time and energy on marketing, trying to attract new customers through social media, ads, and other channels. However, if your existing clients are not happy with your product or service, they are unlikely to recommend you to others, no matter how much you invest in marketing.

The key to growing your photography business is to create an exceptional product or service that exceeds your customers' expectations. When your customers are thrilled with their experience, they will be more likely to recommend you to others, which can lead to a steady stream of new business.

 

Asking the Right Questions

To improve your product and service, it's important to ask yourself three critical questions:

 

Question 1: If you were charging ten times as much as you do now, what kind of value would you have to provide to make it entirely worth it to the client?

This question helps you think about the kind of value you offer and what you can do to exceed your customers' expectations. By considering the kind of service you would offer if you charged ten times your current rates, you can create a list of the features and benefits that you would need to provide to justify the higher price.

Question 2: If you were charging one-tenth of what you currently charge, what would you have to add or change to provide that service for that price point and actually make it even better than it is now?

This question helps you think about how you can provide more value for less money. By considering the features and benefits you would need to offer if you charged one-tenth your current rates, you can identify ways to streamline your service and make it more efficient while still providing exceptional value.

Question 3: What are the biggest pain points that your customers face, and how can you address them in a way that exceeds their expectations?

This question helps you think about your customers' needs and how you can address them in a way that goes above and beyond their expectations. By identifying the pain points that your customers face and finding ways to solve them, you can create a product or service that truly stands out and leaves a lasting impression.

 

Invest in Your Craft

One of the most important ways to improve your product and service is to invest in your craft. According to a survey by ShootDotEdit, 57% of photographers believe that improving their skills is the key to success. This means continually learning and improving your skills, experimenting with new techniques and equipment, and staying up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies in your industry.

By investing in your craft, you can create a unique and valuable service that sets you apart from your competition. When your customers see the level of care and attention you put into your work, they will be more likely to recommend you to others, which can lead to more business and greater success over time.

 

Building Relationships

Another critical factor in growing your photography business is building relationships with your clients. According to a survey by PPA, 58% of photographers believe that word-of-mouth referrals are the most effective way to grow their business. By taking the time to get to know your clients, understanding their needs and preferences, and providing exceptional customer service, you can grow you photography busienss exponentially.

 

FAQ

Q1: Why isn't my photography business growing despite marketing efforts?

A: Your product or service may not be good enough for customers to recommend it to others. Focus on improving your product or service to exceed customer expectations to generate more referrals and grow your business.

Q2: What questions should I ask myself to improve my product or service?

A: To improve your product or service, ask yourself these three critical questions: 1) How can I provide enough value to make my service worth ten times more than what I currently charge? 2) What would I have to add or change to provide my service for one-tenth of what I currently charge and make it even better? 3) What are the biggest pain points that my customers face, and how can I address them in a way that exceeds their expectations?

Q3: How can I invest in my craft to improve my product and service?

A: Continually learn and improve your skills, experiment with new techniques and equipment, and stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies in your industry. Investing in your craft can help you create a unique and valuable service that sets you apart from your competition.

Q4: Why is building relationships with clients important for growing my photography business?

A: Building relationships with clients can create a loyal customer base that keeps coming back for more. Get to know your clients, understand their needs and preferences, and provide exceptional customer service to create a positive experience that clients are likely to share with their friends and family.

Q5: Are there statistics supporting the importance of exceptional customer service in growing a business?

A: Yes, according to a PwC study, 73% of consumers say that customer experience is a critical factor in their purchasing decisions. Additionally, customers are willing to pay up to a 16% price premium for a better experience. Provide exceptional customer service to create a positive experience for your clients and grow your business.

 

References:

• Hermozy, Alex. (2021, January 4). The #1 Reason Why Most Businesses Don't Grow.
• Bly, R. W. (2019). The Ultimate Sales Letter: Attract New Customers. Boost Your Sales. John Wiley & Sons.