What are the best ways to develop a personal brand as a digital photographer?

I do the one thing that I have not seen any other photographer do ? I not only use photographs of my clients to illustrate examples of my approach and practices but I make images also of myself to show up as my own personal brand. I use professional images of myself every week to show up as me at a higher level to potential clients. This means that they are given an opportunity not only to connect with my photos but to connect emotionally with me as well .

First off, a Photographer is a Photographer, is a Photographer. Stating "Digital" is ridiculous. How about you start by clarifying what this means. Unless you are operating within Historical/wet processes for Fun, or Fine Art.

Develop a personal brand as a digital photographer by showcasing a consistent and distinctive style in your work. Create a professional website and leverage social media platforms like Instagram and LinkedIn to share your portfolio. Be sure to engage with your audience, tell your story and highlight your unique approach to photography. Collaborate with others in your industry, seek client testimonials and actively participate in relevant communities to build credibility and recognition for your personal brand.

I have just had created a gorgeous fact filled website which illustrates my work but more importantly advises why clients need branding photography. It has downloads, blogs , prices and client folios . It literally has everything someone would need to make a decision and make contact with me. You need to have a place people can find you and take time to social proof . Millennials love to do their own research before they commit .

Having a social media presence and being consistent and active with your community are critical in our virtual world. I use LinkedIn and Instagram -- however, it's important to remember that you want to be active on the channels your ideal clients hang out. For example, if your ideal clients don't use TicTok and are more likely to be on LinkedIn, you are going to want to create content on LinkedIn to attract and engage the people who will be attracted to your services.

I love LinkedIn. I do a lot of research for business clients before I even consider how to photograph them. I don’t just show up and shoot there is a detailed collaborative plan . It’s my only platform and I post 3 times a week and gain 35-40% of my business from it.

I have a blog on my website. I use posts from my LinkedIn and convert these to suit my website. Therefore it drives traffic there and increased your SEO. It’s all about showing on on your socials but allowing people to social proof you in their own time.

This year, I had a limited podcast series about reinventing your life, which was totally on brand for me since I started a new career at 48 years old, and talk a lot about this on my social and blog posts. This not only helped reinforce my brand, but I was able to connect with other women changing their lives and wanting to share their stories. Great way to build brand awareness and build community.

I tend not to collaborate with other photographers. I collaborate with website designers , marketing experts , coaches and other high profile business leaders . They are more likely to pass me work .

I found it helpful to have an automated feedback and testimonial survey emailed to my clients after they pay their final invoice. That way, I don't have to recreate the document or forget to send it. Having it part of my process keeps me efficient and gives the feedback I need and testimonials to post on my website if needed.

Developing a strong brand as a digital photographer is essential for standing out in a competitive market and attracting clients. Define Your Niche, identify your specialty or niche within digital photography. This could be portrait photography, landscape photography, event photography, product photography, or any other area where you excel. Focusing on a specific niche can help you target your marketing efforts and build a reputation as an expert in that area.