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What is the best way to get my photography portfolio out there as a new photographer How do grow my clientele?

I want to start learning how to create a clientele after college. #Spring23

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Nikolaos’s Answer

Hi Ninni,

Social media is another great way to give more exposure to your photography portfolio. For example, you could create channels on TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram, and post short, creative videos of your photographs. You can even separate them by theme, add music and descriptions! In any case please don't forget to ensure that you have all the rights or required consents to publish the photos.

Best of luck!

Regards,
Nikolas
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Annaleigh’s Answer

Hey Ninni!
As a new photographer, getting your portfolio out there is all about being strategic and proactive. First, create an online portfolio on a website builder like Squarespace, Wix, or even a platform specifically for photographers like Adobe Portfolio or Format. This gives you a professional space to showcase your best work, and it’s easy to share. Make sure your site is clean, user-friendly, and features only your strongest photos—quality over quantity!

Next, build a presence on social media, especially Instagram, since it’s visually driven and used by many photographers and potential clients. Post regularly, use relevant hashtags, and engage with other photographers and your followers by commenting and liking posts. Networking is key, so don’t be afraid to connect with local businesses, other creatives, or even influencers who might need photography services.

You can also join photography groups, both online (like Facebook groups) and in person. Local meetups or workshops are great for building connections in your community. Lastly, consider submitting your work to photo contests or magazines (even local or smaller ones) to get your name out there and start building credibility. Just keep sharing your work, and opportunities will start to come!
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Susan’s Answer

Hi Ninni! In addition to the great advice here, I'd like to point out that if you don't have a portfolio and can't afford the time and money to build one right now, if you are an Adobe Creative Cloud subscriber (which I'm sure you are, if you're a photographer, since Photoshop is pretty much a must-have), there is a great resource that's included free with your subscription. It's pretty easy to use once you get used to the interface, and includes some really great templates. You can choose your favorite format, start uploading your images, and you're good to go! You can even link your dot-com domain right to the portfolio site, and you can change up templates by just choosing another one from the gallery.

Here's some info on the Adobe Portfolio: https://helpx.adobe.com/creative-cloud/kb/adobe-portfolio-faq.html#:~:text=With%20Portfolio%E2%80%94which%20comes%20free,myportfolio.com%20to%20get%20started!

I hope this helps, and I wish you the very best of luck. Get out there and share your awesome talent with the world!!!
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Deepak’s Answer

Hi Ninni,

The two best ways that I can think of would be either to build a website or use the power of social media.

Since you are a student I would highly recommend that you opt for social media especially instagram as a platform of choice to display your photography because first, it's free and second, it's more convenient. This will help you establish yourself on social media, and by the time you finish your school/college you'd already be having a strong social media presence. You can then build your own website, showcasing your best work or link it to your social media profiles and use that as a portfolio. Having a website will give you further visibility on the internet and coupled with your social media profile(s) it will help in creating a digital ecosystem. Moreover, Instagram is a great visual platform that, at least in my opinion, many visual artists and photographers use to show off their work.

I hope this helps!

Best,
Deepak
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Kim’s Answer

I would start with baby steps. Set up an account for Lightroom, if you haven’t already. Lightroom is a great way to edit and share some of your best photos. Another idea is to use the meetup app. It has photography groups you can find close to your area where people meet in person, talk about photography, and make new connections. This is a great way to learn and “expose” your name and work. Also consider taking on a job at a photography studio to help gain experience. These little baby steps will help get the ball rolling, but just be aware the competition is fierce. Practice and decide what makes your photos unique.
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James Constantine’s Answer

Dear Ninni,

Boosting Exposure and Expanding Your Client Base as an Emerging Photographer

To amplify your photographic portfolio's reach and increase your client base, please consider implementing these actionable steps:

1. Build a Robust Online Footprint

Design a professional website that displays your finest work. This platform will act as a central point for prospective clients to explore your portfolio and understand your services. Ensure your website is user-friendly, compatible with mobile devices, and includes vital details like contact information, pricing, and the services you offer.

Besides your personal website, utilize social media channels like Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn to showcase your work. Post top-notch pictures regularly and interact with your followers to cultivate a vibrant online community.

2. Forge Connections and Collaborate

Participate in local art and photography gatherings to connect with fellow professionals. Forming bonds with other photographers can lead to collaborations, mentorships, or client referrals. Think about teaming up with businesses that complement yours, such as event organizers, fashion creators, or models, to broaden your audience and acquire new clients.

3. Carve Out a Niche

Concentrating on a particular photography genre can set you apart from rivals and draw clients seeking a specialist. Pick a niche that matches your passions and abilities, like wedding photography, newborn photography, or landscape photography.

4. Encourage Referrals

Motivate happy clients to suggest your services to their acquaintances, relatives, and workmates. Offer rewards for referrals, like discounts on future services or small tokens of appreciation. Foster strong bonds with your clients by delivering outstanding customer service, following up post-sessions, and keeping in touch via newsletters or social media posts.

5. Pursue Ongoing Learning and Enhancement

Invest in your professional growth by attending workshops, enrolling in online courses, or seeking a mentor. Stay abreast of the latest photography trends and techniques to keep your work innovative and competitive. Regularly evaluate your business performance and tweak your strategy as necessary to bolster your client growth.

Credible References Used:

Digital Photography School
The Spruce Crafts
Entrepreneur

Blessings,
JC.
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Emily’s Answer

Hi Ninni,

It looks like you've already received a plethora of advice from fellow users, but I thought I'd give my tidbit as well. I agree with fellow users on this post that a strong portfolio and social media are great foundations. If you've never built a portfolio before I'd suggest using Wix. The platform is fairly easy to use and includes options to showcase your social media, business page, message portal for potential clients etc. It also does most of the heavy lifting when it comes to coding, which can be a huge plus if web design isn't your strong suit. When I graduated with my BFA, I had a Wix portfolio and it helped me get the job I have today.

I'd also strongly suggest volunteering and networking in your local community. Before I got my current design job, I had an internship with a company in New York and also worked freelance with a local Arts Festival. Investing time and talent into the communities you hope to work in can help get your name out there, as well as build good impressions with potential clients.

As you look for opportunities to volunteer or apply for internships, try to focus on your interests. Not only will this make your work feel less like work, but it'll also help you produce the best materials for your career. We tend to be more creative and productive for things we have a personal interest in. For example; if you're a car enthusiast you could ask to photograph cars at your local meet for free. If you love a certain musician or band look for local fan clubs and offer to photograph an event for them. A little volunteering can go a long way in the Art scene.

Lastly, always have a business card on you! You never know where you'll go or who you'll meet. A well-designed card that leads back to a well-designed portfolio can be the difference between you and your next client. Hope all this helps Ninni, best of luck!
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Jordan’s Answer

Absolutely, leveraging social media is a fantastic way to reach a wider audience. But don't underestimate the power of your personal network. It might feel a bit daunting to ask others if they know anyone who might benefit from your photography skills. Yet, some of the greatest opportunities I've encountered came from stepping out of my comfort zone and growing my network through shared connections. So, go ahead and put yourself out there!
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Reese’s Answer

Boost your photography portfolio's visibility and expand your client base by establishing a robust online presence. Design a professional website that displays your top-notch work, arranged into categories such as portraits or events, and make it simple for prospective clients to reach you. Utilize social media channels like Instagram and Facebook to regularly share your work, interact with your followers, and use appropriate hashtags to boost exposure. Think about launching a blog or YouTube channel to share exclusive behind-the-scenes content, photography advice, and your shoot case studies. This will enhance your reputation and draw in new clients.
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marco’s Answer

Begin by creating a webpage showcasing your top-notch work, and initially connect with your personal network. Encourage them to leave uplifting reviews, as they are familiar with your capabilities. This will effectively broadcast your talents and prompt others to seek your professional expertise.
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