Ever launched your newborn photography biz but struggled to get clients without spending a fortune? I’ve been there—newbie days, scrambling to book shoots, worried I’d need big bucks to stand out. After 10+ years and hundreds of bubs, I’ve got the super easy tips to market your newborn photography business on a budget for heart-melting shots and a thriving biz that shines for years to come. These hacks work for beginners, pros, and even mums starting small—whether you’re shooting at home or building a studio! My free 30-min masterclass video will have you shooting like a pro in less than 30 mins!
Why Budget Marketing Grows Your Biz
Smart marketing means more clients, steady bookings, and stunning shots. These hacks deliver:
- Fast: 5 mins to start—no endless planning.
- Easy: Just your phone—no pricey ads needed!
- Wow: Packed calendar—mums save memories, pros get happy customers!
Others might say you need paid ads or fancy websites—nah, my way’s simple, and nails it. Let’s market those newborn shoots!
1. Leverage Local Facebook Groups
Struggle: No one knows your biz exists.
Fix: Post in local Buy/Swap/Sell groups at 9-9.30am when bubs is more likely settled and sleeping – so mum has free time to browse Facebook.
Try: When first starting out – “Newborn Mini Sessions in [Your Town]! $100 for 20 mins, 4 digital files. Only 8 spots available. DM to book, spots close [date].” I’d recommend charging more than this but for your first gig, its a good start! Follow group rules and get consent to share pics.
Tip: Use neutral or earthy-toned wraps to make posts pop!
2. Nail Simple Branding
Struggle: Branding feels overwhelming.
Fix: Pick an easy name that can grow and change with our business incase you change to a different type of photography e.g. pets! Try [Your Name] Photography and create a free Canva logo in 10 mins or buy one on Etsy for under $15. Set up an Instagram page and post one heart-melting newborn pic daily if you can – until you have at least 6 photos posted to fill your grid —use my posing hacks for inspo. No website needed yet!
Tip: Stick to neutral or earthy tones (think cream or sage) for a timeless vibe mums adore!
Pro Move: Need portfolio shots? Run a “model call” for free shoots. Post: “2 FREE Newborn Model Call Shoots for May! DM name, email, phone, baby’s DOB, photo. Closes [date].” Offer 3-4 free digital files, upsell all files for $100. Tag a newborn clothing biz for buzz and/or mention that their baby will model wraps/clothing for “X Brand” —subtly shifts focus from being a newbie. Get consent to share pics.
3. Use Instagram/Facebook for Free Exposure
Struggle: Paid ads drain your budget.
Fix: Post weekly or daily: “Just shot this cutie in a sage wrap! Book your newborn session, DM me! #newbornphotography”. Share tips (e.g., “Shoot at 9am for calm bubs”). A reminder to join Buy/Swap/Sell Facebook groups.
Tip: Pin a post with your $100 mini session to your profile—it grabs attention!
4. The Pro Secret – The Client Lock (Tease!)
Struggle: Marketing doesn’t land clients.
Fix: Here’s my trick: free model calls and Facebook group posts build a portfolio that books clients fast—my method filled my calendar in weeks! I literally had over 50 parents apply for my model call shoots that were posted in Facebook groups!
My $27 Mobile Presets polish shots for pro portfolios, inspired by my 10+ years perfecting bubs. For calming bubs, my $37 Baby Whispering Mini Course shares magic, inspired by Sheyne Rowley, the Australian Baby Whisperer—read it here!
Tip: Want more? My free masterclass will have you shooting like a pro in 30 mins—click below!
Level Up with My Free Masterclass!
These hacks are your marketing starters, but want pro-level secrets for shooting? My free masterclass for at-home shots covers:
- Posing hacks—cute curls, safe and simple.
- Lighting hacks—no gear, just glow.
- Baby-calming moves—peaceful shots every time.
It’s 30 minutes to stunning pics—phone or DSLR—mums save memories, pros get happy customers! Join the free video here—you’ll be hooked!
My $179 course (reg. $359, worth $579) covers 0-12 months, tricky toddlers, messy homes, and more—and sleep tips from The Gentle Sleep Specialist Tara for the first 3 months of your baby’s schedule. Or snag my $27 Mobile Presets—pro editing skills that work!
My Marketing Flops to Frame-Worthy Wins
I’m Jess—mum, Netflix binger, pork crackling addict. My first marketing attempts? Total flops—zero bookings, wasted posts, and me panicking over why no one called or booked! Now, after years of tweaking and building the JJP Method, I’ve got the hacks I wish I’d had back then. No big words, just real tips for every dreamer!
