Why School Photography is the Key to Grow Your Family Photography Business

As family photographers, we often face the challenge of keeping our calendars full and income steady throughout the year. Traditional marketing methods can be slow and costly, and it can be difficult to break through the noise to reach potential clients. But what if there was a proven, effective way to book more family sessions and increase your income? The answer lies in school photography.

School photography isn’t just an additional service—it’s a powerful tool that can transform your photography business. Let me share a story that illustrates just how impactful this can be.

how to grow your family photography business!

How School Photography Changed Everything

It was 2012. I had a fresh photography business, a two-year-old, a five-year-old, a full-time job as an RN, and a dream so big I could barely contain it.

I wanted this photography thing to work, but it was dragging, and I had to do something.

I had one crop sensor camera (Canon 50D, baby!), a nifty 50 lens, and a piece of black felt. I bought a backdrop stand (which we still use at every school), and I photographed my first school.

I made $3K from that school and booked my family calendar six months out from just that one school. That’s when I realized, “Holy cow, Elena, you’re onto something!!”

The rest is history…

Since then, I’ve photographed thousands of children in schools all over the Seattle area. I’ve educated thousands of photographers from all over the world who are making $5K, $10K, or even $20K a month as school photographers—not to mention thriving in their family photography businesses—all because of schools!!

School photography can grow your family photography business.

How School Photography Can Boost Your Family Photography Business

1. Direct Access to Your Target Market: Families with Young Children

When you photograph at schools, you’re not just taking pictures—you’re marketing directly to your ideal clients: families with young children. These parents are already invested in capturing their children’s memories, making them more likely to book you for family sessions, newborn photos, and more.

By offering school photography, you’re positioning yourself in front of hundreds of potential clients in a natural and effective way. It’s a direct connection to the families you want to work with, without the need for expensive advertising campaigns.

2. Create a Steady Income Stream and Eliminate Slow Seasons

One of the most significant benefits of school photography is the consistent income it provides, even during traditionally slow seasons. As mentioned in my story, that first school shoot not only brought in $3K but also filled my family photography calendar for six months. Imagine the peace of mind that comes with having your calendar booked out well in advance.

School photography doesn’t follow the same seasonal patterns as family photography. While family sessions may slow down in the winter, schools are still in session and need photos. This creates a steady stream of work and income that can keep your business thriving year-round.

3. Build Stronger Relationships and Grow Your Family Photography

When you photograph children at school, you’re not just working with the school—you’re connecting with families. These connections can lead to more family sessions once the traditional season picks up again. Parents who appreciate the care and quality you bring to their child’s school photos are more likely to book you for other significant moments in their lives.

Additionally, being active in your community through school photography helps you establish trust and build a strong reputation. Parents talk, and when they see the beautiful work you’ve done for their child’s school photos, they’re more likely to trust you with their family’s most important milestones.

Grow your family photography biz with school photography.

Ready to Grow Your Photography Business?

If you’re a family photographer looking to book more clients and increase your income, school photography could be the game-changer you’ve been searching for. Just as it did for me, school photography can help you build a thriving business that not only fills your calendar but also brings you closer to the community you serve.

Whether you’re just starting or looking to grow, adding school photography to your services can provide the steady income and grow your family photography business to the next level. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to grow your client base and keep your calendar full—consider making school photography a part of your business today.

Get the only course you will ever need to start with school photography!