From Zero to Fully Booked: How NZ Photographer Specialists Get Their First 10 Clients
Starting your photography career in New Zealand can be super exciting but finding those first 10 clients might feel a bit daunting. With smart strategies tailored for locals and a friendly approach, you can build your bookings steadily and gain the trust of your community. This guide shares 10 practical tips to help photographers attract their first clients and grow their business.
Here are some tips that you might find interesting:
1. Start With Family and Friends
Your close circle is often your first source of gigs. Offer discounted or free shoots to friends and family to build your portfolio and collect reviews.
A Christchurch photographer began with capturing moments at family events, quickly building word-of-mouth referrals.
Weirdly enough, these initial shoots can lead to consistent bookings and positive testimonials.
2. Join Local Facebook Groups
Groups like “Auckland Creatives” or “Wellington Buy, Sell, & Trade” regularly have members searching for photographers.
Engage by sharing tips, behind-the-scenes photos, or success stories to build relationships without hard selling.
Neighbourly is also a great place to be noticed by local Kiwis looking for trusted photographers.
3. Create an Easy Website
A sleek, mobile-friendly website displaying your portfolio, client testimonials, services, and pricing builds trust online.
Platforms like Wix, Squarespace, or Google Sites allow you to quickly get a professional site up and running.
Showcasing local scenery or events adds a familiar touch that resonates with NZ clients.
4. List on Yada and Local Directories
Yada helps photographers connect with clients without commission fees, perfect for newbies wanting fair competition.
Its rating system means your quality work gets recognised by local clients seeking reliable photographers.
Also get listed on TradeMe Services, Localist, and any niche New Zealand photography directories.
5. Offer Introductory Discounts
Entice your first clients with special offers, like mini sessions or package deals on portraits or events.
A Tauranga photographer filled early slots by offering discounted family photoshoots around special occasions.
It’s a friendly invite to experience your style without a big commitment.
6. Network with Event Planners & Businesses
Building connections with event planners, local businesses, and venues opens up a steady gig pipeline.
Offer to collaborate on shoots for weddings, corporate events, or local festivals.
A Nelson photographer grew by teaming up with wedding planners and local cafes for event photo coverage.
7. Collect and Highlight Testimonials
Ask happy clients to provide reviews you can display on your website, Yada profile, or social media.
Positive reviews build trust and encourage others to book with you.
Glowing testimonials helped a Wellington photographer convert curious prospects into paying customers.
8. Share Tips and Behind-the-Scenes
Post simple photography tips, before-and-after shots, or video snippets showing your creative process.
This type of content builds relationships and keeps you top of mind without sounding salesy.
Instagram stories of outdoor shoots in iconic NZ locations have helped photographers attract local followers and clients.
9. Advertise in Community Spaces
Flyers on community boards at libraries, local cafés, and community centres reach audiences not active online.
Consider car magnets or branded apparel as mobile advertising around your area.
In smaller towns like Timaru, this grassroots approach complements online marketing well.
10. Stay Organised and Professional
Using project management and invoicing tools ensures smooth booking processes and timely delivery.
Clear communication and professionalism make clients more likely to rebook and recommend you.
A Christchurch photographer credits good organisation for quickly turning part-time work into a full busy schedule.