Has SEO been on your to-do list for way too long? When you’re a wedding photographer, it’s your job to capture beautiful moments on the most important day of people’s lives. But before you can get there, you have to capture their attention—and online, that means SEO is a must-have.
In this blog, we’re going to lay out some simple, straightforward SEO tips for wedding photographers that will get your website moving up to the top of the search results. Let’s break down the SEO for wedding photographers that’s going to help you get found online.
Why SEO for wedding photographers matters
Every page on your website has the potential to rank for a different keyword. Yep, every single one. In fact, the smartest SEO strategy for wedding photographers is to try to rank for relevant and distinct keywords for each page.
For example, if you want to rank for “Wedding Photographer in Atlanta” then you can use that on your homepage, while targeting “Atlanta Wedding Photographer” on your About Page.
The core pages for wedding photography SEO
Here are the core pages of a strategic wedding photography website (and tips on how to sprinkle some SEO magic across each one.)
Homepage
Use broad and clear keywords that describe what you do and where you do it—this is a good place to lean on the “Wedding photographer” + [your city] keyword combo.
About Page
This is another great place to use a variation on your location-based keywords or other high-ranking terms for your area, like “expert wedding photographer in [your city]” or “award-winning bridal photographer in [city].”
Services Page
Dedicate a full page to every service you offer, and target specific keywords for each one. For example:
- Engagement photography
- Wedding day photography
- Destination wedding photographer
Always include your location name as well, so the clients you’re attracting are in your area of service!
Contact Page
This is a great place to optimize for local SEO—include another variation of your location-based keyword, like “Triangle wedding photography.”
Blogs
Each blog can rank for its own keywords. This is your playground for long-tail keywords that answer the specific queries of your ideal clients, from “tips for a rain-proof wedding photoshoot” to “best sunset photo spots in Chicago.”
The best keywords for wedding photographers
Local SEO-based keywords are some of the best keywords for wedding photographers. Clear mentions of your geographic base not only guide couples right to your doorstep but also enhance your visibility in local search rankings, ensuring you’re the go-to photographer in your region.
Before you choose keywords for your website, spend some time with tools like Ubersuggest. Start by thinking like your client: What would they Google to find your services? This mindset will help you uncover the keywords that connect their searches to your offerings.
- Main Pages: Choose robust, broad keywords that succinctly describe your main services.
- Blog Pages: Opt for niche, long-tail keywords that address specific topics or questions your clients might have.
SEO plugins can help, too!
Implementing an SEO plugin like Rank Math can simplify this process immensely. It offers real-time insights and suggestions to optimize each page and post.
Want to learn more about how to do keyword research? Read our guide to keyword research here!
Where to use your keywords
You’ll want to strategically use keywords in a few spots throughout your website, namely in the headers and in the body.
H1/Page Title: This is *usually* the blog or page title. Make it a head-turner with your primary keyword to snag both Google’s and your future clients’ attention.
H2 Headings: H2s break up longer pages and blog posts—put your primary and secondary keywords here.
H3 Subheadings: These smaller headings help break down complex information and support your H2s. Sprinkle related keywords here to enhance context and depth.
Body paragraphs: Use keywords naturally wherever they come up as you’re typing—don’t worry too much about it or stuff too many in!
Blogging is key for great wedding photography SEO!
Aim to update your blog regularly—weekly is fabulous, but monthly is great too. Consistent, fresh content not only keeps your website dynamic but also continually expands your SEO footprint, making it easier for clients to find you.
Yes, your photos are worth a thousand words, but Google (and your clients) crave actual words to navigate and understand your offerings. Mixing captivating images with strategic, keyword-rich posts of 500-1000 words boosts your site’s relevance and engagement, signaling to search engines that your content is exactly what lovebirds are searching for.
Use photos…wisely
While images are pivotal in showcasing your work, they also play a significant role in your site’s SEO performance. It’s tempting to post a million pictures in a blog without any text and call it a day (after all, you’re a photographer, and people want to see the pictures, right?) Not so fast. Too many photos can overwhelm visitors and slow down your site. Here’s what to do instead:
- Choose your best photos: People don’t need to see every single angle of a pose. Edit your work and share a handful of the best shots.
- Optimize image file names and alt text: Use descriptive, keyword-rich language that aligns with your content, enhancing both SEO and accessibility.
- Monitor image file sizes: Large images can slow down your site, negatively impacting user experience and SEO. Tools like WP Smush or TinyPNG can help compress images without sacrificing quality.
Set up your Google Business Profile
This is crucial for local SEO success. A well-optimized Google Business Profile amplifies your visibility in local searches, drawing more clients to your portfolio.
Here’s how to do it:
- Claim Your Listing: Start by searching for your business on Google to see if it already exists. If it does, you can claim it. If not, you can create a new listing directly through the Google Business Profile website.
- Fill Out Every Detail: From your business name, address, and phone number, to your service hours and category (make sure to list yourself as a Wedding Photographer), fill in every detail comprehensively. Accuracy here is crucial, as it helps potential clients find exactly what they need.
- Add High-Quality Photos: Since you’re in the business of photography, showcasing your best work here can make a big impression! Regularly update your profile with fresh, captivating images of recent weddings or photography sessions.
- Collect Reviews: Encourage happy clients to leave positive reviews on your profile. High-quality, positive reviews can improve your business’s visibility and make it more appealing to potential clients.
- Post Regular Updates: Use the posts feature to share updates, special offers, or exciting news about your work. This keeps your profile active and engaging for potential clients.
Want to learn more about setting up your Google Business Profile? Right this way!
Ready to step up your online presence with SEO services for photographers?
At Southern Creative, we make it easy with our expert SEO Services. Book a chat to learn how we can make your business the highlight of someone’s search results!