Setting Your Goals and Planning for 2025

Episode 188 - Get ready for 2025 by setting goals and planning ahead.

The Transcript page - https://photographysidehustle.com/188

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Transcript

Hey, how’s it going? I’m Andy Jones, and this is episode 188 of the Photography Side Hustle podcast.

Creating a solid plan for the year ahead involves setting clear goals, defining actionable steps, and ensuring you’re equipped to handle challenges. Here's an outline of what your plan should include, tailored to your wedding, portrait, and sports photography focus:

1. Business Goals
Financial Goals: Set revenue targets for the year. Break them down by quarter and service type.
Client Goals: Define the number of clients or shoots you want to book in each category.
Skill Development: Identify areas for improvement, such as new techniques or software skills.
Brand Growth: Outline goals for increasing visibility through marketing, networking, or collaborations.
2. Target Audience
Refine your understanding of your ideal clients for each service:
Weddings: Couples planning upscale or intimate ceremonies.
Portraits: Families, professionals needing headshots, or individuals seeking creative portraits.
Sports: Athletes, teams, or schools looking for action shots and event coverage.
3. Marketing Strategy
Social Media: Create a posting schedule with content ideas (e.g., behind-the-scenes, client testimonials, portfolio highlights).
Website: Update your portfolio, optimize for SEO, and add blog posts targeting client pain points (e.g., “How to Prepare for a Wedding Shoot”).
Email Marketing: Develop campaigns for promotions, seasonal offers, and follow-ups with past clients.
Networking: Attend industry events or collaborate with vendors like event planners, venues, or sports organizations.
4. Services & Pricing
Review your pricing structure. Incorporate ideas like price anchoring and tiered packages.
Add-on services (e.g., albums, prints, or additional editing) to increase average sales per client.
5. Equipment and Workflow
Gear Audit: Ensure your cameras, lenses, and accessories are up-to-date and maintained.
Backup Strategy: Have redundancy plans for equipment, data storage, and power.
Software & Tools: Upgrade editing software, review client management tools, and explore options for automation.
6. Seasonal Focus
Plan marketing and promotions around high-demand seasons:
Wedding Season: Spring and summer campaigns.
Portraits: Holiday promotions or back-to-school campaigns.
Sports: Align with local team schedules or seasonal leagues.
7. Financial Planning
Budget: Allocate for marketing, new gear, travel, and unexpected expenses.
Revenue Streams: Explore diversification (e.g., selling prints, offering workshops, or affiliate marketing).
Taxes and Savings: Set aside funds for taxes and long-term goals.
8. Customer Experience
Streamline your booking process with easy online scheduling.
Enhance your communication, from initial inquiries to delivering final products.
Create memorable client experiences that encourage referrals.
9. Professional Development
Attend workshops or conferences to sharpen your skills.
Network with other photographers for knowledge-sharing or collaboration opportunities.
10. Monitoring & Evaluation
Set up monthly or quarterly reviews to track progress on goals.
Use tools like spreadsheets or CRM reports to evaluate financial and operational performance.
Would you like help drafting a specific section, such as a marketing calendar or a pricing structure?