I know things are getting rough these days in my industry as a Monterey wedding and event photographer. We are quickly losing income and don’t know how to generate new income in a time where everything is being put on pause. We cannot photograph people or events and it’s completely out of our control. It feels like the rug has been pulled out from under us and we are struggling to get back up. Well, my friends, I feel we are being tested. Are we going to give up or are we going to create something beautiful and beat the odds? I’ll tell you what I’m going to do, I’m going for the latter. Here are a few ways I am trying to generate income as a Monterey Photographer.

#1 Print Sales Income For Photographers

Have you ever sold prints? If you’re an online business and you have a gallery, you can sell your prints! This is a win-win for both you and your clients. In times like these, your clients have time to think about what they want and where to hang on their walls. Take advantage of this time and offer a print sale! This allows you as a Monterey Photographer to generate income now. You can also sell fine art prints. Art is inspiring and is appreciated as well. I’ve been offering 50% off my prints. Why? I want my clients to have their memories printed, and I know everyone is struggling now–this helps us both! Don’t sell prints or know where to start? Contact me, I will help you!

#2 Album Sales Income For Photographers

Albums are one of my favorite things to create. In my eyes, I am creating the masterpiece of what I was hired to do in the first place–tell a story. This is one of the best ways to generate income now. Make it a priority to reach out to past clients and ask, “Hey would you like to see what your wedding could look like in an album?” Who wouldn’t?! In our industry, if done correctly, this has the greatest profit. To be honest, it should. This is all of your hard work being made into a beautifully crafted, stunning finished piece for your clients to cherish for generations–literally. They’ll love you for asking. Don’t think they’ll be able to spend that kind of money? No problem, offer them a payment plan. Do for them what you would like done for you. It’s worth the wait.

#3 Product & Local Photography Income

This is a great opportunity to expand your business or test the waters into another area of our industry. Without watering down your brand, you could offer your services for another local business who is also needing content. I’ve reached out to a few businesses to see if I can help photograph their products and help create a cohesive look for their Instagram and marketing. This is generating an income for me and also expanding or creating a new portfolio. We as Monterey Photographers have to think, if this were to happen again, what could I fall back on to help generate income? This is a great idea and it’ll help you connect with your local community too.

#4 Market for 2021 Business Monterey Weddings

I’m going to be honest, I’m not sure bookings will happen for 2020 weddings and large events, which is 50% of what I do. So I thought about it, and now I’m focused on what I can control, and that’s booking and connecting with the future business for 2021. I need to generate income as a Monterey Photographer. Well, if you book new clients and have a booking fee, that’s income! My strategy: everyone is struggling, right? You, me, and our neighbor most likely. I’m offering a booking special now (inquire here)! You can say something like, “Book now and receive X% off of any collection.” Once again, it’s a win-win. Couples need help, and so do you!

#5 Pre-order Sessions for 2020

Buy now; shoot later. This what I’ve been offering. Your clients are understanding, and they want their life to get to normal just like you! So offer them something to look forward to! Sure it’s May now, but this is a great time to start thinking about your marketing calendar and selling your mini sessions with no specific date. I only take on 10 families during the fall, so this is the first thing I would offer. My family sessions sell out every year. Once we’re out of this shelter-in-place, you can release dates and your calendar is full! Your couples got a great offer and you have work to look forward to. It’s a wonderful thing!

These are the things I’m doing now to help my small business generate income as a Monterey Photographer. Do you need help? I offer mentoring sessions and one-on-one calls. Please don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m an open book Monterey Photographer, and I’m here to help you! Contact me to help you get started!