EP 122 - 10 Things Photographers Should Do in the Off Season
In this episode, I’m sharing 10 things I’d focus on as a photographer during the off season to set myself up for a strong busy season. From updating your website and portfolio to getting more intentional with marketing, systems, and relationships, this episode is all about using slower months with purpose. If your calendar feels quieter right now, this is a reminder that the off season can be a really valuable time when you lean into it.
The off season is where you set yourself up to have a *really* good busy season. So let’s get into ten things I think are actually worth your energy right now.
1. Update Your Website
I know, I know-we all need to go update our websites.
But seriously: check your location, your pricing guides, your contact info, your portfolio. Make sure it reflects *where you are now*, not who you were two years ago.
And if SEO has been on your mental to-do list forever… now’s the time.
2. Curate Your Portfolio for Where You’re Going
I don’t want you marketing to who you’re currently working with.
I want you marketing to who you want to be working with.
If that means pulling older work, adding styled shoots, or refining what you show - do it. Your portfolio should attract the future version of your business.
3. Get More Intentional With Marketing
This isn’t about posting every day.
It’s about asking: Can I be more intentional? More consistent?
Treat yourself like a nine-to-five employee during the off season. Even a little structure goes a long way.
4. Set Up Automations Before You Need Them
Future-you will be so grateful for this.
Inquiry responses, booking workflows, email templates—automations save so much time when things get busy. If you’re using tools like HoneyBook or Pic-Time, now is the perfect moment to dial them in.
5. Build Real Relationships
This one matters.
Reach out to past clients. Connect with planners or venues you admire. Engage with your local community or online peers. I want you to *intentionally* build better relationships—not just follow people quietly.
6. Do Styled Shoots That Actually Feed You
Use this time to create.
Some shoots can be strategic for your portfolio. Some can just be for your soul. Ideally, it’s a mix of both. Let yourself play again.
7. Organize the Unsexy Stuff
Email inbox. Contracts. File systems. Client workflows.
Ask yourself: *What can I organize right now that will reduce my stress later?*
Small systems now = less chaos during busy season.
8. Rewrite Your Website Copy So It Sounds Like You
With AI everywhere, sounding human is a superpower.
Read your website out loud. Does it sound like you? Would you actually say those words to a client? If not, tweak it. Your voice matters.
9. Invest in Education or Community
The off season is such a good time to learn.
That could be workshops, conferences, or joining a community where you feel supported and challenged. Growth doesn’t always come from grinding - it often comes from being around the right people.
10. Take Care of Yourself
This one’s not optional.
Rest. Move your body. Go outside.
You don’t need to earn rest - but taking care of yourself now sets you up to show up better later.
The off season is honestly such a beautiful time if you let it be. It’s quiet enough to think, to plan, to recalibrate, and to reconnect with why you started in the first place.
If this episode was helpful, send it to a photographer friend who’s in the slow season with you. And if you have questions - or want help with any of this - my DMs are always open.
I’ll see you in the next one 🤍
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