Relocating Your Photography Business: My Journey from California to Colorado
As a photographer who recently undertook the adventure of moving my business from California to Colorado, I've gathered a wealth of experience and insights over the past year. This journey has been a blend of excitement, learning, and adaptation. With this blog post, I aim to share the lessons I've learned and tips that can help fellow photographers looking to relocate their photo businesses to new states.
1. Legal and Administrative Considerations (Get the license! Get the permits!)
First off, the boring stuff. Moving your business isn't just about changing your location; it's also about navigating new legal and administrative waters. Make sure to get the necessary licenses and permits specific to your new state. In Colorado, I’ve learned that EVERYTHING requires permits.
Don't forget to review and update your insurance as per your new state's requirements.
Familiarize yourself with the local tax regulations; these can differ significantly from one place to another. For example, in Colorado, I had to start collecting sales tax on digital files, something I never had to do in California.
While I opted for self-research and joined local business groups, seeking professional advice from a local attorney or accountant can make this process smoother. If I had to start over, I’d find an accountant right from the start.
Check out my full post here about starting a photography business in Colorado.
2. Understand the Local Photography Scene
Before you make the move, take some time to research the photography landscape in your new area. It's crucial to understand who your peers are and what they offer. Look into their pricing, styles, and unique selling points. This knowledge is invaluable for positioning yourself in the market.
3. Update Your Online Presence
Before you start packing boxes, begin transitioning your online presence. This means updating your website, social media profiles, and any other digital footprints with your new location. It's a strategic move that prepares your existing clients for the change and starts establishing your presence in the new market.
4. Focus on Local SEO
Local SEO is a powerful tool when relocating your photo business. I took the time to learn about it and made sure my website was optimized with location-specific keywords relevant to my new home in Colorado. An essential step is to update your Google My Business listing, as it significantly boosts your visibility in local searches.
5. Build Connections with Local Photographers
Networking with photographers in your new location can be incredibly beneficial. These connections provide a deeper understanding of the local market dynamics and can often lead to referrals. I joined a ton of photography groups online until I found my favorites.
6. Attend Workshops and Shootouts
These events provide a fantastic opportunity to connect with fellow photographers, learn about new locations, and expand your portfolio to include fresh, exciting settings. Workshops often offer valuable insights, mentorship, and hands-on experience that can elevate your photography skills. At the same time, the connections you make at these gatherings can lead to collaborations and referrals, further bolstering your presence in your new community. If you can, find a intimate retreat hosted in your new location before you even move there. While these retreats can be an investment, they’re often worth it for the chance to explore breathtaking locations, gain inspiration, and establish meaningful connections before you’ve even settled in.
I also host my own styled sessions and shootouts here in Colorado, designed to inspire creativity and foster community. Check out my upcoming events [here] and join my email list to stay in the loop on future opportunities!
7. Scout New Locations:
Exploring new shooting locations was one of the highlights of my move. Use tools like AllTrails to find scenic trails and off-the-beaten-path spots. Instagram's location tagging feature is also a gem for discovering popular and visually appealing sites. I spent many weekends exploring with my camera, often with my family tagging along, turning these scouting adventures into enjoyable outings.
8. Engage with the Local Community
Getting involved in the local community is crucial for networking and building your client base.
Here are some strategies:
Attend local events and fairs, offering your services or volunteering as a photographer.
Join community groups and clubs; it's not limited to photography and can introduce you to a diverse group of potential clients.
Participate in local online forums and social media groups to increase your visibility.
Even as an introvert, I found that stepping out of my comfort zone was vital for establishing my business in a new state. I started offering pro bono photography for nonprofits in the Boulder and Denver area. It has been one of the most rewarding photo experiences I’ve had in my business. Check out a couple of the galleries!
9. Host Model Calls
It will probably be slow when you first move but KEEP ON SHOOTING and get that content. A great strategy I used during my relocation journey was hosting model calls. Models calls are a fantastic way to find models for various purposes, from portfolio building to themed projects. When I arrived in Colorado, I needed to showcase my work with local families and individuals to resonate with the new audience.
To start this process, I joined local model and TFP (Time for Print) groups and reached out to families interested in collaborating. In exchange for their time modeling for me, I offered them beautifully styled sessions that showcased my skills.
The key is to clearly communicate your vision and expectations with your models and ensure they feel comfortable and excited about the collaboration. This collaboration not only benefits your portfolio but also creates valuable connections in your new community.
10. Host Mini Sessions and Special Events
Mini Sessions: While mini sessions aren't typically part of my photography offerings, they turned out to be a great asset during my move. These quick, often themed photoshoots, lasting around 15 minutes, are more budget-friendly and accessible for clients. They provide an excellent opportunity to showcase my skills, interact with clients, and boost my local presence.
It all also gives you an excuse to spread the word. I simply promoted them on my website and social media channels, reaching out to potential clients through local community groups and event listings.
I’ve also seen new photographers host minis at people’s homes- a get to know the community event where you travel to a bunch of homes and do quick front porch minis. I didn’t do this myself but it seems like a great way to to get your name out there.
Special Events for Local Businesses:
Partnering with local businesses can also be beneficial . For instance, I collaborated with a real estate agent to host a special event where families signed up for 5-minute slots to have their portraits taken. These collaborations can benefit both parties through cross-promotion. In this case, the real estate agent gained attractive promotional material and happy clients, and I expanded my client base.
By incorporating mini sessions and special events into your relocation strategy, you can quickly establish your presence in your new community, demonstrate your photography skills, and build a loyal client base. These activities not only introduce you to potential clients but also allow you to form meaningful connections with local businesses and fellow community members.
To sum up, relocating your photo business is more than a change of scenery; it's a leap into a new market with its own set of rules and relationships. By carefully planning your move, engaging with your new community, and leveraging both online and offline strategies, you can ensure a smooth transition and set your business up for success in its new home.