How to Find Wedding Photo Jobs

Wedding photography can be a lucrative part-time business for a talented photographer. For formal weddings, couples often like to have wedding photos before the ceremony as well as photos of the ceremony and the participants, which can make a pretty hefty package. If you are a new photographer or a photographer looking to build your wedding photo business, diversifying your search options and building your portfolio are the key to finding wedding photo jobs.

Start With People You Know

• 1

  Call people you know who are getting married. Offer your services to them. Many wedding photographers start out with friends and relatives.

• 2

  Take pictures of wedding guests; let them know you will post their photos on your portfolio site. Give each guest one of your business cards. Chances are, this will drive more people to your website and increase you chances of getting other jobs.

• 3

  Ask the bride whether you can display your portfolio, brochures and business cards near the guest book. As people come in, they will see your work

Partner with Complimentary Businesses

• 1

  Research two or three complimentary wedding businesses such as a wedding planner, a caterer or a venue in your area. Pick only one in each industry, or geographic area, to ensure a proper partnership.

• 2

  Set up a meeting with each. Meet the decision-makers of these businesses in person. Show them your portfolio.

• 3

  Form a formal agreement to partner with each other with regard to potential clients. For example, if the venue is working with a couple who don't have a photographer, the venue will suggest your services. You also will suggest the venue to your clients.

Promote Your Business

• 1

  Advertise your business in local newspapers and magazines.

• 2

  Contact stores that offer wedding registry to find out whether you can place a small, unobtrusive business card or flyer near their registry section. You want to keep the item small and unobtrusive, because if it gets in the way or becomes messy, you may be asked to remove your items.

• 3

  Place geographically driven ads on wedding websites or search engine ads that appear when people search specific wedding terms.