Why You’re Not Getting Photography Bookings (And How to Fix It)

Intro:

If you’re struggling to get more bookings as a photographer, you’re not alone. You might be blaming an oversaturated market or feeling like social media simply isn’t working for you. But what if the real problem isn’t the market or the algorithm?

What I keep hearing is loud.
But what I keep seeing? That’s the real issue.


1. Your Online Presence Doesn’t Say You’re a Photographer

Too often, I come across social media profiles or websites where it’s unclear what the person even does. If your bio, banner, pinned posts, or feed don’t immediately show that you’re a professional photographer, how will a potential client figure it out?

Fix:
Make your Instagram bio or Facebook About section crystal clear. Pin a post with your best work and what you offer. Include a direct link to your portfolio or booking page.
Use your bio to link all your relevant platforms — and keep it up to date.

Use your bio for links to all of your social media and make sure it’s up to date!

2. Your Feed Looks Like a Personal Diary

Memes, politics, rants, random shares — I see more of that than actual photography. Clients need to see your work consistently to even consider hiring you.

Fix:
Create a content rhythm. Share recent sessions, behind-the-scenes moments, tips, or testimonials. Treat your feed like a digital storefront, not a personal scrapbook.


3. No Portfolio. No Work Shared. No Proof.

One of the most common issues? No visible work. No website or link in bio. No samples. No highlights or pinned stories. Just posts that disappear into the scroll.

Fix:
Build a simple, clean portfolio — even if it’s just five strong images. Host it on your website or a dedicated gallery platform. Share it often and proudly.
Pinned or featured posts are great attention grabbers.

How to Get More Bookings as a Photographer
Featured or pinned posts to your portfolio are a great attention grabber for a potential client

4. Your Website Is Turning People Away

I’ve seen it often: broken layouts, confusing navigation, slow load times, outdated info, unclear pricing. Even if someone finds your site, they shouldn’t have to struggle to understand what you do or how to book.

Fix:
Audit your website. Is it mobile-friendly? Is your offer clear? Can someone book you in under 60 seconds? A clean and responsive site is non-negotiable.


5. You Have No Clear Message or Brand

Inconsistent fonts, clashing colors, scattered messaging — if your brand feels chaotic, it won’t build trust. Clients want clarity and confidence.

Fix:
Decide who your photography is for. Families? Weddings? Portraits? Then stick to a cohesive visual and verbal style — across your logo, website, social posts, and portfolio.


6. You’ve Disappeared from Your Own Business

Pages with fewer than 200 followers and no posts in the last year? That’s not a business. That’s a ghost town. Silence sends the message that you’re unavailable or not active.

Fix:
Be consistent. Even one solid post a week shows you’re present and working. Every post is a chance to get discovered.


The Hard Truth?

You’re not being found because you’re not findable.
You’re not getting booked because you’re not showing up.

This isn’t about algorithms or gear. It’s about showing the world what you offer — clearly, consistently, and confidently.

If you’re serious about learning how to get more bookings as a photographer, it starts with nailing the basics.

Need help on how to Get More Bookings as a Photographer?
Check out my full portrait photography training, where I teach photographers how to shoot, edit, market, and grow their business from the ground up.

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