From Zero to Fully Booked: How NZ Videographer Specialists Get Their First 10 Clients
Starting out as a videographer in New Zealand is exciting but getting those initial clients can feel challenging. With a few smart, locally tailored strategies, you can attract your first 10 clients and build a solid foundation for your business. This guide offers practical tips that work in Kiwi communities, helping you get booked and grow your videography career.
Here are some tips that you might find interesting:
1. Leverage Family and Friends
Your personal network is a powerful starting point. Offer to film events or projects for friends and family at discounted rates or for free in exchange for testimonials and referrals.
For example, a Wellington videographer gained first clients by capturing birthday parties and small weddings for people they knew.
Weirdly enough, these early projects often lead to ongoing word-of-mouth bookings.
2. Join Local Facebook Groups
Facebook groups like “Christchurch Community Events” or “Auckland Creative Professionals” are hubs where local clients seek videography services.
Share helpful tips, behind-the-scenes footage, and samples of your work to build trust without pushing sales.
Neighbourly is also great for connecting with local communities seeking event videos or marketing visuals.
3. Create a Professional Website
Showcase your portfolio, services, client testimonials, and contact details on a clean, mobile-friendly site.
Using platforms like Wix, Squarespace, or WordPress can help you get online quickly and cost-effectively.
Include local references-like filming iconic places or local businesses-to connect with Kiwi clients.
4. List on Yada and NZ Directories
Yada connects local clients and specialists without lead or success fees, perfect for new videographers gaining traction.
Its trust-focused rating system helps you get matched with the right clients.
Also, list on TradeMe Services and industry-specific New Zealand directories for broader exposure.
5. Offer Introductory Deals
Draw first clients in by offering discounted packages, quick turnaround times, or free extras like highlight reels.
A Dunedin videographer grew fast by providing low-cost event coverage to local community groups.
Think of this as an easy way for clients to try your service with minimal risk.
6. Network with Event and Business Professionals
Reach out to wedding planners, marketers, and local business owners who need video content.
Attend workshops, business mixers, and trade shows to build relationships and gain referrals.
In Christchurch, consistent networking helped a videographer secure regular corporate video gigs.
7. Collect and Share Client Testimonials
Ask every satisfied client for reviews and permission to share their video testimonials or feedback.
Display these prominently on your website and social media to build trust and social proof.
A Tauranga videographer credits glowing testimonials for rapidly building client confidence.
8. Share Video Tips and Behind-the-Scenes
Post short clips about filming tips, editing insights, or setting up shoots on platforms like Instagram or Facebook.
This casual content humanises your brand and keeps potential clients engaged.
A Nelson videographer's behind-the-scenes footage drew steady enquiries from local startups looking for marketing videos.
9. Advertise in Community Spaces
Flyers on noticeboards in community centres, cafés, and libraries reach demographics that might not be active online.
Car magnets or branded apparel create passive marketing as you work around your local area.
Smaller towns like Whanganui benefit greatly from these grassroots tactics alongside digital marketing efforts.
10. Stay Organised to Impress Clients
Use project management and scheduling tools to deliver work on time and communicate clearly with clients.
Being professional and reliable encourages repeat business and referrals.
A Tauranga videographer emphasizes that great organisation was key to moving from casual projects to a busy, booked-up schedule.