Marketing mini sessions well actually has a formula. I’ve done mini sessions a lot of different ways over the years. In doing so, I’ve learned some excellent ways to run successful minis, and some not-so-great ways to do them. Aside from picking a great theme (check out Mini Session Themes That Book Well) and marketing well (check out 3 Tips for Advertising Your Mini Sessions), WHEN you start advertising will make or break your minis.

When photographers ask me about my secrets to fully booked mini-sessions, one of the first things I mention is the importance of giving yourself enough time to advertise them. Good marketing takes time! So here’s the golden rule I share for when to start advertising…

The 4-6 Week Rule

Whether you’ve got a massive client base or are just starting out, I HIGHLY suggest giving yourself 4-6 weeks to advertise. I know it can be tempting to do some last-minute minis 2 weeks from now so you don’t miss the opportunity, but I’m telling you it isn’t worth it. 

Like I mentioned earlier, good marketing takes time. By allowing yourself those 4-6 weeks, you’re making space just in case. Just in case what? In case your spots don’t book immediately. In case your email platform has a glitch or Facebook shuts down for the weekend. In case life happens and you aren’t able to work for a couple of weeks. You just never know!

Planning Well

So now that we know we need 4-6 weeks, what in the world do we do during that time?? Start off by advertising to your email list only. They need some VIP perks! From there, you can go public with the remaining spots. Make a point to purposely market your minis at least once a week until all your spots are filled! Sometimes it’ll only take a week, but sometimes it’ll take the full 6 weeks. 

If you’re like me, I love having a roadmap telling me exactly what steps to be taking and when. That’s why I created my Mini-Sessions Playbook! This playbook is just like a sports playbook. It tells you every step you need to take to see results. I show you when to take promo shots for advertising, when to email your list, when to start posting, and even what needs to be done the days before and the days after your minis! Seriously, this playbook is a game-changer! If you haven’t already, go check it out!

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:

• Free Mini-Sessions Class: “How to Market, Monetize & Grow Your Photography Business with Mini-Sessions”
• Behind the Lens – my BTS membership for Family Photographers
• Blogging & SEO Mini Course
• Complete Family Posing System