Networking Tips for Photographers Before Moving Your Business: 8 Proven Strategies

Moving your photography business to a new location can feel overwhelming. Between finding a new dentist, researching schools, and figuring out your new market, there’s a lot on your plate. But here’s what many photographers miss: networking before moving photography business operations is one of the most crucial steps for a successful transition.

Whether you’re a seasoned mover or facing your first relocation, these eight networking tips for photographers will help you build connections and establish your presence in your new market before you arrive.

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But before we dive in—Hi! I’m Melissa, and I’m an SEO expert here to help portrait photographers finally get found by their dream clients on Google—without the technical overwhelm. Whether you need done-for-you SEO services, step-by-step coaching through my proven system, or monthly blogging strategies (like my Blogging Club membership!), I’ve got the tools to transform your invisible website into a client-attracting machine. Ready to stop being the best-kept secret in your market?

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If you haven’t already, I’d encourage you to listen to the full podcast episode where Alison & I break down all these strategies in detail. But if you’re ready to get straight to the actionable stuff, this blog post lays it all out for you step-by-step. Either way, you’re going to walk away with concrete strategies you can implement right away.

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Why Start Networking Before You Move?

Think about it this way: when you’re helping your kids prepare for a new school, you tell them to introduce themselves and make friends, right? The same principle applies to your photography business. Starting early gives you time to research, connect, and build relationships without the pressure of needing immediate bookings.

1. Master Instagram Hashtag Research for Your New Market

Instagram might not be everyone’s favorite platform, but it’s a goldmine for market research. Start searching hashtags related to your new location using these strategies:

What to Search:

• Local area codes (like #757 for Virginia Beach)
• City and state combinations (like #charlottesvilleva)
• Local business hashtags (#smallbusinessoahu)
• Community-specific tags (#momsofoahu, #workfromhomemoms)

Your Action Plan:

1. Follow small businesses using local language
2. Engage with their content consistently
3. Reshare their posts to build relationships
4. Look at what hashtags they’re using in their posts
5. Connect with potential collaboration partners

2. Dive Deep into Facebook Groups

If you’re more of a Facebook person (like Melissa), groups are where the magic happens. These communities are already established and know the ins and outs of your new location.

Types of Groups to Join:

• Photography groups (second shooters, styled shoots, referrals)
• Mom groups (for market research and client insights)
• Local small business groups
• Military groups (if applicable)
• Regional interest groups (travel, food, activities)

How to Use Groups Strategically:

• Research blog post topics by seeing what questions come up repeatedly
• Identify potential referral sources by watching who gets recommended
• Connect with other photographers in your new market
• Gather intel on popular vendors, venues, and local businesses

3. Explore Co-working Spaces

Co-working spaces aren’t just for tech startups. They’re networking goldmines for creative businesses.

What Co-working Spaces Offer:

• Regular networking events (lunch and learns, happy hours)
• Professional development opportunities
• Built-in community of local entrepreneurs
• Workspace when you need to escape home

Smart Strategy:

Become a virtual member before you move. This gives you access to events and email lists while you’re still in your current location, so you can start building connections immediately.

4. Research Photo Shoot Locations and Rental Spaces

Scouting locations isn’t just about finding pretty backdrops—it’s about building your vendor network.

Platforms to Explore:

• Home Studio List: Perfect for branding sessions and mini shoots
• PeerSpace: Great for office space, conference rooms, and unique venues

Networking Benefits:

• Connect with interior designers who list their homes
• Build relationships with property owners
• Get featured on these platforms for additional exposure
• Find backup workspace during your transition period

5. Connect with County Business Resources

Don’t overlook official business resources in your new area. They’re often underutilized but incredibly valuable.

Small Business Administration (SBA) Benefits:

• Local permitting and licensing guidance
• Business plan development support
• Networking events and workshops
• Free or low-cost educational classes

Important Legal Considerations:

• Sales tax requirements (photography services vs. goods)
• Business license requirements
• Local zoning laws for home studios
• Professional photography permits for certain locations

6. Join Women’s Networking Groups

Professional networking groups provide structured opportunities to build relationships and establish credibility.

Popular Options:

• FemCity: International women’s networking group
• BNI: Exclusive professional referral groups (one person per profession)
• Boss Babes: Various local chapters
• Local Chamber of Commerce events

BNI Insider Tips:

• Guest for free by connecting with current members
• Substitute when members can’t attend
• Research availability before joining (only one photographer per chapter)

7. Leverage Industry-Specific Organizations

Your photography peers are your greatest resource for local market insights.

Key Organizations:

• NAPCP (National Association of Portrait and Child Photographers)
• Rising Tide Society (Tuesdays Together meetups)
• State PPA chapters (Professional Photographers of America)
• The Motherhood Anthology
• Local photography groups and Facebook communities

Conference Strategy:

Look for local or regional photography conferences in your new area. These events offer:

• Face-to-face networking opportunities
• Local market education
• Vendor relationship building
• Continuing education with regional focus

8. Strategic Competitor Research (Yes, Really!)

Instead of viewing other photographers as threats, see them as potential referral partners and friends.

How to Approach Competitors:

1. Identify photographers with similar style and pricing
2. Reach out genuinely with compliments on their work
3. Offer referrals when you’re overbooked
4. Build mutual referral relationships

Melissa’s Success Formula: “Hey, I’m coming to town. I’ve looked at your work and pricing structure—good job, girl! I only take on X sessions per month, so I’d like to put you at the top of my referral list.”

This approach works because:

• Everyone wins with quality referrals
• You’re leading with value instead of competition
• Reciprocity naturally develops
• You build market credibility before arriving

Your Pre-Move Networking Tips for Photographers: Action Plan

Ready to start building connections before your move? Here’s your step-by-step plan:

Week 1-2: Research Phase

• Search Instagram hashtags for your new location
• Join 3-5 relevant Facebook groups
• Research co-working spaces and become virtual member
• Contact local SBA office

Week 3-4: Connection Phase

• Start engaging with local businesses on social media
• Reach out to 2-3 photographers in your new market
• Join one networking group as a guest
• Research upcoming industry events

Week 5-6: Relationship Building

• Schedule virtual coffee chats with new connections
• Attend networking events (virtually if possible)
• Start contributing value in Facebook groups
• Plan your first networking events to attend after moving

Final Thoughts: Building Your New Photography Community

Moving your photography business doesn’t have to mean starting from zero. By implementing these networking tips for photographers before you relocate, you’ll arrive in your new market with connections, insights, and opportunities already in place.

Remember, the photographers who thrive after moving are those who start building relationships early. Don’t wait until you’re unpacked and settled—start networking today.

Your next step: Choose one strategy from this list and implement it this week. Whether it’s joining a Facebook group or reaching out to a photographer in your new area, taking action now will pay dividends when you arrive at your new location.

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