Do people know what you do?
I mean, do they REALLY know what you do?
Often, we think we're being so clear when in reality we're not being clear at all. Clear branding and messaging, though, is the most important thing to maintain when you're going into a niche like interior photography!
To make sure that your content is clear and intentional,
there are THREE questions you should always ask yourself before posting anything online.
- Is this the best of my best work right now?
- Does this relate directly to my niche?
- Does this speak directly to my ideal client?
Is this the best of my best work right now?
Asking yourself this will help you to be selective on what you show. Remember, always choose quality over quantity. Why? Because 5 incredible images will be stronger than 25 images that are mostly okay with a few amazing ones. The not-so-amazing images will always bring down the awesomeness of those 5 incredible photos. Always show work that reflects your full ability right this moment.
(pssst! I actually don't show even half of what I shoot! When I started showing very selective work, my niche got super clear and defined. Quality over quantity.)
Does this relate directly to my niche?
Sometimes we photograph things outside our niche because life costs money and bills add up. And that's okay!
But doing a variety of work doesn't mean you have to show it all. For example, if you do some headshots or family photos during a slow month, there's no need to post those photos on social. All it does is muddy your branding. Suddenly, you're not an interior photographer. Rather, you're now the photographer who does interiors, headshots, families...
The reason it doesn't pay to be a multi-purpose photographer is because high-end client don't want someone who dabbles in different areas. You'll draw your ideal clients by showing them that you are THE person to photograph their next project because that's what you do. Period.
(pssst! Another reason a lot of my work stays hidden from the public? It's not residential interiors! When I started defining my niche, I only showed interior photos. All that time, though, I was still covering events, creating headshots, and dabbling in real estate photography. But showing interiors paid off because it draws clients to want that type of work created. Now, nearly 100% of my work is interiors! Stay true to your niche.)
Does this speak directly to my ideal client?
Along the same lines of relating to your niche, your content needs to speak to your ideal client. If you target hospitality clients, should you really be showing photos of that condo for sale? Probably not. Show the work that will appeal to your ideal client.
(pssst! My ideal photography client is a female interior designer with a medium-sized team, with projects focused on residential interiors. Will you see me posting commercial spaces or exteriors? Rarely. Always consider your ideal client.)
Of course when you’re posting on IG stories or FB live, personal or behind-the-scenes material will be great to mix in. So have fun with it! Still, keep your audience in mind (yes, even for the fun stuff) and make sure it’s part of what you want your audience to experience with you. Now go on and get posting!
xo,
Natalia