It doesn’t matter what type of business you are in, you need to promote and market it in order to be successful. The same goes for photographers, no matter what type of photography you offer; glamour shots, head shots, scenery, wedding, children’s, et cetera. Marketing and promotion doesn’t have to be expensive, if you know where to start.

One of the first things you need to do to promote your photography business is to create a website. If you can’t design one for yourself, enlist the services of a web designer to build one for you. There are always ways to work out deals with a website designer so that you don’t have to pay an arm and a leg for services. Trading services, offering discounts and benefits are a way of reducing costs and provide exposure for each other during hard times.

List your business in local directories and local directories and search engines. For example, you can do this at Google, Bing, and Yahoo. Give a brief description of your business as well as the link to your website when doing so. While you’re at it, don’t forget about the benefits of social media including Google +, Facebook, Pinterest and Twitter. If you don’t have accounts there, or know how they work, learn!

Business cards and stationery are traditional, but don’t spend too much money on them if you don’t have much of an opportunity to use them. Today, more contact approaches are done via Internet or telephone than in person-to-person business meetings, but after that initial contact is made, have a business card to hand potential or current clients.

Join a group or an association that gives your business a little bit of clout. Join your local chamber of commerce or other civic associations and learn how to network. Talk to vendors who sell you your supplies and/or services and see if you can work out deals to help promote each other’s business.

As a photographer, you can make headway by also contacting local schools, colleges, nonprofit organizations, health care facilities, and local youth groups to promote your photography business. While you’re at it, find business owners who may utilize your services, depending on your niche.

If you drive your own car or truck to work, advertise your business through decals, contact information, and even customized license plates. Remember – one of the best ways to encourage business is to provide excellent customer service.