don't post for your peers

Don't Post for Your Peers

It's always exciting when another photographer starts following you, especially if it's someone you admire. Often, many of a photographer's social media followers are also photographers. Because of this, it's easy to start posting for your peers without even realizing it. Why is this something to avoid?

You can get so in your head and think, "So and so follows me, and I want them to be impressed by this photo." When you post with your peers in mind, you inadvertently play the comparison game and lose focus of the goal behind your account. Although it could be subtle, potential clients may still be able to feel that you're not speaking directly to them.

If you're posting with your peers in mind instead of your dream clients, the traits that set you apart can easily be lost. Your photographer followers are not your target audience, so don't let them dictate what you think you should post. Stay in your lane, and don't be distracted by others.

The purpose of every post is to grow your brand awareness and attract new clients. Validation from fellow photographers is terrific, but it doesn't necessarily translate to clients. Share what's authentic to your artist's heart, and don't think about if your photographer following will "approve."

Posting with your peers in mind is also limiting to you. Every photographer has some images they love that may not be technically perfect, but they deeply resonate with them. Avoiding sharing them because you worry your photography community will think less of you as a photographer is a disservice to yourself.

It's 100% ok to repost the same photo. Shocking, right? During engagement season, it's crucial to post frequently and share your best and favorite work. If that means reposting a photo from last year that may even be far down your feed, don't hesitate to do so! Strategically use those hero shots to book new clients. Who cares if your friends have already seen the image if it brings in leads?

Leave behind the self-doubts and worries about what other photographers may think about you when posting. Don't be afraid to be yourself through your posts! Show up as the best authentic version of yourself and see the deeper and more genuine connections you'll be able to make.

Have you ever caught yourself posting for your peers?