The Exact Strategy That Got Me My First 10 Weddings

Breaking into wedding photography can feel overwhelming—how do you go from zero bookings to a thriving business? I remember wondering the same thing when I first started. But through trial, error, and a whole lot of putting myself out there, I booked my first 10 weddings using a few key strategies. Here’s how to book your first wedding photography clients.

If you’re a new wedding photographer trying to get your first clients, here’s exactly what worked for me!

1. Leveraging Facebook & Online Platforms

One of the biggest game-changers for me was tapping into online communities. I joined local wedding planning Facebook groups and participated in discussions—not in a spammy, “hire me!” way, but by being genuinely helpful.

• Answered questions about wedding timelines, lighting, and venues.
• Shared sneak peeks of my work when it was relevant.
• Built trust by engaging with real couples.

Many couples were actively looking for photographers in these groups, and by being visible and approachable, I landed some of my very first bookings!

2. Turning Family Sessions into Future Wedding Clients

At first, I wasn’t booking weddings—but I was booking family and couples’ sessions. I realized that if I nurtured those relationships, those clients would think of me when they got engaged.

Here’s how I made it work:

• Offered affordable mini-sessions to couples and families.
• Built strong relationships, delivering an amazing experience so they’d want to work with me again.
• Kept in touch through social media and email updates.

It paid off! When these couples got engaged, I was the first photographer that came to mind, and I booked weddings from repeat clients.

3. Showing My Face & Personality on Instagram

Your work can be stunning, but if potential clients don’t connect with you, they won’t feel drawn to book. I learned early on that showing my face and sharing my personality on Instagram was a game-changer.

• Posted behind-the-scenes stories of my shoots.
• Shared my excitement and passion for weddings.
• Let my audience get to know me, not just my work.

The more I showed up, the more engaged my audience became. People want to book someone they feel comfortable with, and by being present and personable on Instagram, I built trust that turned into bookings.

The Key Takeaway? Relationships Matter!

Looking back, the biggest thing that helped me book my first 10 weddings wasn’t just marketing—it was connection. I put myself out there, engaged with potential clients, and built relationships.

So if you’re wondering how to book your first wedding photography clients, focus on these three things:

1️⃣ Be active in online communities.
2️⃣ Nurture repeat clients from other types of sessions.
3️⃣ Show up as yourself on social media.

If you’re just starting out, what’s your biggest challenge in booking your first weddings? Drop a comment below—I’d love to help! And don’t hesitate to join my online course community The Forward HQ.

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