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Feeling quiet? Here’s what to do when bookings slow down.

So… the inbox is quiet, your calendar’s looking a little too roomy, and suddenly every time your phone buzzes you’re hoping it’s an enquiry (but it’s just your 17th Instagram like from your mum).

If you're in a slower season - first of all - you’re not broken. This happens to every photographer at some point, no matter how seasoned, booked-out, or hashtag-strategic they are.

Here's what to do (besides spiraling into “maybe I should become a florist” energy).

1. Don’t panic. Zoom out.

Business ebbs and flows. Always has, always will. Just because things feel quiet right now doesn’t mean you’re doing something wrong.

Look back at last year. Did you have a rush in March? A lull in winter? Were you fully booked before you had time to breathe in October?

Patterns help replace panic with perspective. Zoom out. It’s probably more normal than it feels.

2. Use the space, don’t waste it.

You know all those things you say you’ll do when things “quiet down”? Well, here we are.

Now’s the time to:

  • Refresh your website (even just your homepage or portfolio)
  • Update your pricing or packages
  • Batch your Instagram content (or finally plan that blog post… hi 👋)
  • Automate your client experience so next busy season = less chaos
  • Review your numbers and actually get friendly with your finances

It’s not about hustling through the quiet, it’s about setting your future self up for a smoother ride.

3. Focus on visibility, not just sales.

If you’re not getting bookings, it doesn’t mean you need to drop your prices or post “limited time only” every five minutes.

  • Instead, focus on showing up with value:
  • Post behind-the-scenes or before/after edits
  • Share a mini client story or recent testimonial
  • Offer helpful tips for your audience (what to wear, how to prep for a session, etc.)
  • Collaborate with local businesses, creatives, or vendors

Be visible. Be helpful. Be findable. That builds trust, and trust builds bookings.

4. Check your enquiry experience.

If people are landing on your website but not enquiring, something might be off.

Ask yourself:

  • Is your contact form working? (Yes, actually test it.)
  • Is it clear who you’re for and how to book?
  • Are your packages easy to find, or are they buried under 47 scrolls and a playlist?
  • Do you sound like you? Or like every other photographer in your area?

Little tweaks here go a long way. Not sure where to start? That’s literally why we mentor. 😉

5. Remember, bookings aren’t the only measure of success.

Sometimes slow seasons are preparing you for a busier one. Sometimes they’re telling you to rest, reassess, or pivot. Sometimes they just happen and that’s okay.

You are not your calendar.

Keep showing up. Keep trusting the work. And maybe back up your Lightroom catalog while you're at it.