7 Overlooked Tools & Tips That Help Me as a Houston Brand Photographer
Running a small business comes with its fair share of challenges and triumphs (understatement of they year, am I right?).
Over the years, I've discovered some invaluable tools and tips that have made my journey smoother and more enjoyable. Here are seven often overlooked resources and strategies that have helped me as a creative small business owner.
1. Network Regularly Using Social Media
Social media isn’t just for promoting your products or services; it’s a powerful networking tool. And major brownie points: it’s free! We make it a habit to engage with other professionals in our industry on platforms like Instagram. By leaving meaningful comments on posts and sharing insightful content, we’ve built meaningful connections that have opened up new opportunities and collaborations.
2. Use ChatGPT for Captions, Verbiage, and Blog Posts
Creating engaging content consistently can be daunting. That’s where ChatGPT comes in. This AI tool helps us to craft catchy captions, compelling verbiage for my marketing materials, and even well-structured blog posts. It saves time and ensures that our content is polished and professional.
3. Celebrate Even Your Small Wins
Running a business can be a rollercoaster ride, and we all know how easy it is to get caught up in the daily grind. I’ve learned to celebrate every achievement, no matter how small. Whether it’s reaching a new follower milestone on social media or completing a project ahead of schedule, acknowledging these victories keeps morale high and motivates me to keep pushing forward.
4. Use Canva for Graphics, Social Media Posts, and Email Imagery
Canva is a game-changer for anyone who isn’t a professional designer. I use it to create stunning graphics, eye-catching social media posts, and engaging email imagery. Its user-friendly interface and vast library of templates and elements make it easy to produce professional-quality visuals that enhance my brand. We use it every single day, truly.
5. Offer an Incentive or Freebie for Newsletter Sign-Ups
What if Instagram got deleted tomorrow? Do you have a secondary location where your audience can receive news from you online? Growing your email list is crucial for direct marketing. To encourage sign-ups, we offer a freebie or incentive. Ours is a FREE high resolution stock photo gallery for subscribers to use in their business. Using Mailchimp, we easily manage our newsletter and automate welcome emails. This strategy not only boosts my subscriber count but also provides potential customers with a taste of what I offer, increasing their interest and engagement.
6. Use Professional Imagery
Investing in professional photography can make a significant difference in how your brand is perceived. High-quality images reflect the seriousness with which you approach your business, and this professionalism attracts clients who are willing to invest in your services or products. I make sure all of our visual content, from website photos to social media posts, is top-notch. If you’re thinking about investing in professional brand photography, we’d love to chat with you.
7. Regularly Review Your Business Plan and Be Open to Pivot
The market is always evolving, and so should your business. We review the Lightbulb League business plan regularly, assessing what’s working and what needs adjustment. Being open to pivot based on client needs and market trends has allowed us to stay relevant and competitive. Flexibility and willingness to adapt are key to long-term success.
Incorporating these tools and tips into your daily routine can significantly improve your business operations, boost your brand's visibility, and help you achieve sustained growth. As a creative small business owner, staying innovative and proactive is essential, and these strategies have proven to be invaluable in our journey as a Houston brand photographer.
