Are you looking to expand your brand into destination work and past your local market? If your answer is a resounding, "YES!" this article is for you! It's a blessing to have the opportunity to travel for work, yet you might be wondering how to get started, so read on!
Make it known that you're willing to travel. It's not everybody's dream to travel for work, but if it's yours, share your passion for traveling! Keep an updated list of upcoming destinations on your website and Instagram and promote the heck out of it! Others get excited when you're excited!
Pick the region where you want to start marketing. If you have family or friends in a specific area and you like their market, that's a great place to start! Add that area to your website/social media and begin to tag that city. Plan a visit and create content focused on that area. Plan a styled shoot and network with other vendors, or put together something more lowkey with just a bride model or couple.
Create reels and blog posts about the things to do or venue tours. Establish yourself as an authority in that area as a photographer + travel guru.
Pro tip: If you're out and about doing touristy excursions and see a well-dressed, cute couple, ask if you can grab a few shots of them — this expands your portfolio while also advertising! Win, win!
After shooting epic content, be published in localized blogs (Rocky Mountain Bride, Utah Valley Bride, Kentucky Bride, etc.). Since local blogs have a more targeted audience, you'll be putting your work in front of brides whose weddings are in the locations you want!
Price yourself appropriately. We all know travel costs add up quickly, so don't forget to crunch the numbers and quote accordingly. It may sound tempting to travel to an exciting destination, but if you're not within their budget, you could end up losing money. Trust that what's intended for you will not pass you by, and by saying "no" to some things, you're freeing yourself to say "yes" to the right things for you and your business. Keep creating outstanding work and providing value for your clients and market. Show that your artistry is unparalleled and the experience you offer is one-of-a-kind and worth any travel expenses.
Know that you're capable of achieving your dreams, and we'll be here cheering you on every step of the way!
*photos by Samantha Sanchez, Dani Cowan and Tanja Kibogo