Why fashion brands aren’t hiring you (and what to do about it)
You're doing everything right. Your portfolio is polished, your website is live, and you're actively sending out pitches. But despite all your efforts, brands aren’t booking you. It’s frustrating, confusing, and makes you wonder—Am I the problem?
You're not alone. Many talented photographers face this exact challenge. But here’s the thing—it’s not about effort, it’s about strategy. Let’s break down the main reasons why brands aren’t booking you and how to fix them.
1. Your Portfolio Is Too General or Too Trendy
Your portfolio is your most powerful tool—it’s what convinces brands to hire you. But if it’s not built strategically, it could be working against you.
Why Brands Aren’t Booking You:
Your portfolio is too general—showing a mix of portraits, weddings, fashion, editorial, e-commerce, and lookbooks.
It lacks a clear specialization, making it hard for brands to understand what you do best.
It follows too many trends, making your work blend in rather than stand out.
How to Fix It:
Define Your Niche: What do you want to be known for? Identify the common thread in your work and lean into it.
Create a Cohesive Style: Your images should evoke a consistent feeling and aesthetic.
Showcase Your Strengths: When a brand lands on your website, they should instantly know what kind of photography you specialize in and why you’re the right fit for them.
2. You’re Pricing Yourself Too Low
Money is a big deal. Many photographers assume that setting low rates will attract more brands. In reality, it can have the opposite effect.
Why Brands Aren’t Booking You:
Low rates create doubt—brands wonder why you’re so cheap.
They assume you lack experience or confidence in your work.
Cheap pricing attracts low-budget clients who don’t value photography.
How to Fix It:
Price for Value: Brands that understand the value of high-quality photography are willing to pay for it.
Charge What You’re Worth: If a brand ghosts you because of your pricing, they likely wouldn’t have paid fairly anyway.
Raise Your Rates: Higher rates attract high-quality clients who respect your work and give you more creative freedom.
3. You’re Not Pitching (or You’re Doing It Wrong)
Pitching is one of the most misunderstood parts of photography marketing. Most photographers either don’t pitch at allor pitch ineffectively.
Why Brands Aren’t Booking You:
You’re waiting for clients to find you instead of reaching out.
Your pitches sound too robotic, over-polished, or lack personality.
Your emails are too long—brands don’t have time to read walls of text.
How to Fix It:
Send Personalized Pitches: Brands hire people, not emails. Your message should feel natural, confident, and focused on what they get from working with you.
Keep It Short & Punchy: No one wants to read an essay. Get to the point.
Follow Up: If you don’t hear back, follow up in a friendly, non-pushy way.
4. You Need a Clearer Marketing Strategy
If you’re just posting on Instagram and hoping brands will find you, you’re missing out on work. The photographers getting booked are the ones actively putting themselves out there.
How to Fix It:
Engage with Brands: Comment on their posts, connect on LinkedIn, and stay on their radar.
Use Social Proof: Showcase client testimonials and successful projects.
Be Consistent: Marketing isn’t a one-time thing—it’s about building long-term relationships.
Want More Help? Join the Fashion Photography Club
If you’re ready to book your first or next dream client, the Fashion Photography Club is here to help. This 12-month program gives you the roadmap, support, and momentum to build a creative career with freedom and financial stability.
Inside the Club, You’ll Get:
Step-by-Step Curriculum: Learn exactly what to do to book high-quality clients.
Monthly Action Calls & Q&A Sessions: Get direct support.
Portfolio Reviews: Ensure your work aligns with your goals.
The investment? £1200 + VAT (one-time) or £100 + VAT per month (for 12 months).
🚀 Doors open February 19th! If you sign up between February 19th-26th, you’ll receive a special bonus.
📩 Have questions? Let’s chat—I’d love to hear from you!
