Online services tend to fall short of the mark when it comes to helping you promote your photography business. Look for a service that provides you with marketing tools. There are several steps you should take to ensure that you maximize your online sales.

A. Advertise your site

Open up your market! If there's a crowd involved, everyone in that crowd is a potential client. When you have the opportunity to publicize your work, do so! Hand out business cards whenever you meet someone who expresses interest in your photography. If you're shooting an event or a portrait session, print out flyers with examples of your work, a short bio, and all relevant contact information. You won't make any money if the guests don't know where to go to buy your photos. Include the link to your storefront on all promotional material you distribute.

B. Collect e-mails

Collect e-mails at all events in order to follow up with future buyers. Print out a guest list so they can leave you their e-mail addresses. This way, you can follow up with anyone who has expressed interest in purchasing your work.

C. Distribute Coupons

Some services will let you create coupons that give clients a discount on all prints and products offered by their lab. Often, this is all that is needed to encourage people to visit your site and place orders. Once they place an order through your storefront, the discount will be applied and subtracted from your profits.

D. Follow up with potential buyers

People are lazy, but you can motivate them. They may genuinely want to buy your pictures but sometimes, their busy lives interfere with their intentions. Sending them a friendly e-mail will encourage them to visit your site. Some services will even allow you to customize e-cards so that your follow-up reflects your professionalism. A little reminder can go a long way!

E. Fluctuate your pricing

Everyone likes a deal! After a photo session, many professional photographers will lower their prices when a few weeks have elapsed. Be sure to inform potential buyers of the special you are offering via e-mail. A 10 to 15% discount is usually recommended.