SEO for Photographers: my go-to tip to rank on Google

Let’s face it: the majority of photographers rely heavily on Instagram to bring in clients. Many of them don’t see the importance of ranking on Google with their website, or even having a website at all.

Here’s a straight-up truth: if you, as a photographer, don’t put effort into a solid (read: visible and strategic) website, you’re likely missing out on a ton of clients. And we all get the equation: more clients = more income (and more freedom!).

In this blog, I’m going to reveal my top tip for photographers aiming to boost their website’s visibility on Google: focus on local SEO, which boosts your presence for specific areas. Lots of photographers miss out on this, offering you a chance to outshine them and get noticed on Google!

In this blog post, I’ll walk you through what local SEO is and share 7 practical tips to increase your website’s visibility. Let’s dive in!

 

But first… What is (Local) SEO? 🧐

SEO, short for Search Engine Optimization, is a set of techniques you can employ to rank better on Google.

Google’s primary function is to show the most relevant search results to users based on their search queries. For example, if you type in:

You’d expect to find a list of top Italian eateries around Chicago. It would be strange if you suddenly saw only fish restaurants in Miami, right?

This example points out the significance of aiming for higher Google rankings with a focus on local SEO. Why? Well, research shows that a whopping 46% of all Google searches include a location. Let that sink in. 🤯

 

Local SEO for Photographers

Considering that nearly half of all Google searches have a local aspect, it’s a good time to reflect: are you, as a photographer, focusing on specific locations? 🤔

Local SEO is crucial for photographers because:

• Most photographers work within a specific area.
• Most potential clients are searching for a photographer in a specific area.

See the overlap there? That’s where local SEO comes in.

 

7 Tips to improve your Local SEO as a Photographer

 

1. Use local keywords on your website

One of the most effective and quickest ways to increase your visibility, but often overlooked by photographers: including local keywords on your website.

Typically, photographers stick to broad terms like ‘newborn photographer’ on their site, skipping the location. And often, I hear the excuse, “But I’m available throughout the whole country” or “I don’t want to exclude potential clients.”.

Sure, I get it, but:

• Again, most people look for services nearby. New parents won’t drive hours for a newborn photoshoot across the country (at least, I’d hope not).
• Loads of photographers use these generic terms, which means you’re in a tough competition. By focusing on specific local keywords, you can be a step ahead.
• Trying to market to everyone = you’re marketing to no one.

Here’s how you can make it work – use terms like “Wedding Photographer in Miami & Florida”. This way, potential clients immediately understand that you’re based in Miami while still being available across the state, effectively hitting two targets with one shot!

In a nutshell, make sure to use specific local search terms on your site. A reliable formula is:

Some examples: Wedding Photographer Melbourne, Newborn Photographer Atlanta, Maternity session Michigan, Editorial wedding photographer New York, …

💡 Pro tip

Use tools like Ubersuggest to run keyword research and see what folks are actually searching for. That way, you can make smart choices backed by data, and ensure you’re focusing on the right keywords.

 

2. Highlight your location in page titles & meta descriptions

Remember to pop in your location in the page titles and meta descriptions on your site pages. These are the bits you’ll see in Google search results.

For example:

People searching for photographers nearby are way more likely to check out your site if your location is clearly shown in Google. So don’t miss out on this!

🔗 Got a Showit website? This blog’s got you covered on how to tweak those page titles and meta descriptions.

READ THE BLOG

 

3. Set up a Google Business Profile

Think of a Google Business Profile as your personal billboard on Google. It’s a must-have for any photographer looking to get noticed locally. You can set it up for free, adding details like your business hours, area of operation, website, and more. Plus, your clients can leave reviews, giving you a chance to shine online. 🤩✨

When people are looking for a photographer nearby, your business profile is your ticket to standing out in search results and on Google Maps. Picture this: someone types in “family photographer in Cape Town”, and your profile pops up first, complete with accurate information, dazzling photos, and glowing reviews. That’s spotlight visibility at no cost!

 

4. Don’t forget about NAP-information

NAP stands for Name, Address, and Phone number, and it’s more important than you might think. Keeping this info consistent across your website and other platforms like Instagram is crucial for local SEO. This helps search engines connect your business with your physical location.

So, don’t skip adding this info to your contact page and your website’s footer. It’s like leaving breadcrumbs for Google to follow!

 

5. Optimize your blog posts for local search

Want to rank well on Google? Remember, content is king! Blogging regularly keeps your website active, shows off your expertise, and builds trust with potential clients.

To improve your local SEO as a photographer, you can blog about various topics that include locations, such as:

• The best photoshoot locations in [city/region]
• How to choose a wedding photographer in [city/region]
• What to wear during a session in [city/region]
• The best daylight studios [city/region]
• …

 

6. Include alt-text for your images

Think of alt-text as a behind-the-scenes guide for Google and anyone with visual impairments. It’s a text description you add to images on your site. If relevant, slip in your location here, too. This little step can help folks find your website when they search for specific areas!

🔗 Check out more about adding alt-text in Showit in this blog post! 👇🏻

READ THE BLOG

 
 

7. Gather quality backlinks

Backlinks are links from other sites back to yours. They’re like applause from the internet, signaling to Google that your site is trusted and authoritative.

The more reputable sites link to yours, the more Google values your site, bumping you up in search results. For local SEO, backlinks are even more vital as they boost your visibility for location-based searches.

As a photographer, reach out to local businesses – think wedding planners, daylight studios, event venues – and ask them to link to your site. And don’t hesitate to return the favor. It’s a win-win!

 

SEO for photographers: don’t forget about local SEO!

If you’re a photographer who hasn’t been spotlighting your location on your site, it’s about time you start! By following these handy tips, you can significantly enhance your online presence in your area, leading to more website visitors and clients.

Keep in mind, SEO isn’t a one-and-done deal; it’s a continual process that demands attention and tweaks. Don’t forget to check out this blog for more strategies to climb the search engine ladder!