Breaking Free From The Social Media Trap | 121

You've probably heard this a lot: "Post your photos on social media, and clients will come knocking on your door." Sounds easy, right?

Well, I'm here to tell you that's a big lie. Many photographers, maybe even you, have fallen into this trap.

You post day after day, waiting for something to happen. But nothing does.

No clients, no messages, nothing. It's frustrating, I know. So, what's going wrong? It's not your photos; they're great. The problem is the method.

Today, we're going to talk about what actually works to get your work seen and appreciated by clients who are ready to hire you. Let's dive in.

This past week it seems like Instagram rolled out some algorithm change that has affected thousands of creatives. I’ve seen so many complaining about limited reach… so what can we do?

❌ The Myth That Keeps On Going

Remember the advice that sounded like a golden ticket for your photography business? "Post your work on social media, and the clients will come."

Sounds familiar, right? Well, it's time to call it what it is—a myth.

Many creatives, maybe even you, have fallen victim to this belief. You post diligently, curate your feed, wait for the magic to happen... and yet, nothing. Months, even years go by, and your client inbox remains empty. The frustration builds up, leading to burnout or even throwing in the towel.

🌆 It's Not Your Portfolio - It's Your Strategy

Before you start doubting the quality of your work or cursing Mosseri and Zuck, let’s get something straight. Your portfolio? It’s likely packed with quality work that’s ready to impress clients. The real issue lies in the strategy—or the lack thereof.

Relying solely on social media is a slow burn. Yes it works eventually. But it takes years to take off. And let’s be honest, patience is a rare commodity in the fast-paced world we live in.

🤝 The Real Deal: Taking Charge

So, what’s the game-changer? It’s simple - take the reins in getting your portfolio seen by those who matter. It’s about reaching out, making connections, and presenting yourself as the solution brands didn’t know they needed.

This approach isn't about spamming inboxes or cold calling into the void.

It’s about crafting genuine, engaging pitches that resonate with brands on a personal level.

It’s showing them how you can solve their problems, make their lives easier, and enhance their projects with your unique vision.

If you don’t know where to start, I made this free resource to help.

📈 Will You Be Part of the 1%?

Here’s a hard truth: the majority won’t take this path. It’s challenging, requires a shift in mindset, and yes, it means stepping out of your comfort zone.

But this path is also less crowded, paved with opportunities for those willing to walk it.

This leaves a wide-open field for the determined few, the 1% who are ready to embrace a proactive approach.

A calculated, systemized way to get eyeballs on your portfolio. Pitching brands in a way that feels authentic and helpful to them.

And once they show any bit of interest, you hop on a call, dig into their problems, become the best solution for them, and close that deal.