niche photography

Why You Need a Photographic Niche (And How to Find One)

Why find a photographic niche?

Establish credibility and build your reputation. This can help you bring in referrals. If someone is looking for a wedding photographer, for example, they are most likely going to ask their friends if they know a good wedding photographer, specifically. Same goes for newborns, headshots, etc.

Focus your marketing efforts. When you narrow your target market, your marketing efforts will be more effective. You'll have a more focused and higher quality message, and a better understanding of where to promote yourself. You're more likely to find the people who want what you're selling.

Stand out from the crowd. Consider a more specific, uncommon niche — such as tattoo photography — that will help you stand out. While you may not be casting the widest net, for those who are interested, you've caught their attention and established yourself as an expert — you'll be the go-to person.

How to choose a niche

Some questions to ask yourself: 

  • What do you enjoy doing?
  • What are you good at?
  • How well does it pay?
  • What is the competition?
  • How difficult is it to break into?
  • Is there any special equipment required?
  • Is it contingent on location?

Some common niches

  • weddings
  • newborns
  • children / families
  • portraits
  • headshots
  • fashion
  • stock
  • product
  • food
  • landscape
  • street
  • architecture
  • travel