How can your lifestyle photography portfolio stand out from the crowd?

Creating a niche is important. It allows your potential clients to know that they are working with someone who has their best interest in mind. It's up to us to not be a jack-of-all-trades, and be great at what you do rather than just OK. Clients need to know what they're going to get to make an informed decision in their investment. Niching down will allow you to be the best you can be at one thing.

Always display what you want to attract. If you want to attract headshot clients, post headshots on your portfolio. If you want exotic models, then post exotic models. You won't get newborn clients by posting headshots.

Many times I've seen a client post a shoot, and then I go to the photographer's instagram to check them out- only to see they haven't posted about the shoot yet! I never understood that. If a client is posting your work, and you're allowed to post, then you should be posting in lock-step with client in order to maximize the visibility of your content. You could post behind-the-scenes content of the shoot on your stories. Many photographers choose to regularly update their instagram - and will update their website once a quarter or when they have a bulk amount they can upload. It's important to highlight that you are consistently making work - and it makes you look like a hot commodity!

Some work will stay in your portfolio forever. Even if that means you re-edit it to match your evolving style as time goes on. You will find that every time you create something new, your tastes will change just a little bit. As you progress, your portfolio will get more and more consistent and evolve into your chosen niche. If you're early in the game, market what you got. You can't move forward without marketing. Even if you have almost nothing, just put yourself out there.

The longer you photograph, the more distinct your work will get. The more your vision will come to life. Without our little touches of personality, we will never be recognized as a leader in photography. Create a vision that is uniquely yours, even if that means being inspired by someone else and tweaking it.

Your website is your new business card. So is your Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, etc. Not every type of photography will attract clients on every platform, but there everyone has their preferences on where they look for something. Don't disregard a platform just because you don't personally use it. Get yourself out there as much as possible. " Brand awareness is everything.

Make your website as user-friendly as possible, clearly define each section (don't make your viewers guess what they're looking at!) & only include images that best represent your style of shooting. The client wants to know exactly what final product will look like & don't want to be surprised! If your website is too fussy, confusing, etc, it will be a quick X out & on to the next person. The market is saturated with photographers - don't allow your website to be a reason you aren't getting hired. Remember to test viewing of your website on your smartphone, too. Instagram is also a tool you can use for your portfolio & gives you an opportunity to show more of your personality should you want to do that!

The key to standing out? Your own special way of seeing things. It's what makes you different from everyone else and makes your portfolio really pop. So, focus on developing a consistent style that shines through your entire portfolio. Whether it's the way you edit your photos, choose colors, or play with lighting, staying consistent will make your work easily recognizable and truly unique.

Two additional elements to consider. 1. ??Collaborate (pay, trade, etc.) with a visual designer to create a compelling container for your work that is responsive (or build your site on a stellar platform like Format that has fun design and responsive UX baked in). 2. Market your work in-person, online, with a link ?? in bio on socials, and over email. Your beautiful portfolio doesn’t matter if no one sees it! ??

You should consider incorporating behind-the-scenes content or stories behind your photos. This adds a personal touch and gives viewers insight into your creative process. Also, consider collaborating with other artists or subjects for diverse and dynamic content. Engage with your audience through social media or a blog, sharing tips, experiences, and your photography journey. Attend and participate in photography workshops, contests, or exhibitions to increase your exposure and network. Lastly, explore new trends and techniques, like using AI tools such as Midjourney for unique edits or compositions, to keep your work fresh and innovative. These strategies can help differentiate your portfolio in a competitive market.