Photography Promotion Ideas For the First Quarter

The new year is just around the corner. Holiday work is about over and while it would’ve been ideal to have your business strategy done back in August, life can get in the way. But it’s never too late to plan ahead, even if it isn’t as far in advance as you’d like.

Some people believe January is not worth making any effort to get sessions in the door. Afterall, people just got through Christmas. Why would they want to have a photography session now, right?

But did you know:

More money is given over the holidays than any other time of year. People have money to spend!
People are busy during the holiday months. Many couples are both working full time jobs and putting in over time. This means there isn’t time to do a family session during November and December.
There is less push on marketing by other companies, which frees up awareness for anything you send.

So, you just need to have a compelling message and an incentive offer to get those sessions in the door. But where do you start? What would motivate people?

1. “Charitable Session” (January)

Everyopne like helping a cause. Pick a local charity you have a passion to help. From people to pets, every community has a group that could use some help. You can offer a session where the session fees goes to the charity. No obligation to buy but you’ll hav special packages for those that are interested.

Perfect for updated family portraits, couples, or pets.
Tie the promo to fresh starts, resolutions, or updating family or children portraits.
Don’t forget the grandparents. They are very proud of their grandkids and to include them with the kids is very meaningful.
Offer limited-time pricing to create urgency

Sample tagline:
“New year, fresh photos! Limited spots—book your January session now.”

2. Valentine’s Day Couples or Family Sessions (Late Jan–Mid Feb)

Tap into the season of love:

Couples, engagements, families, even “Love My Pet” sessions
Include a small printed keepsake or gift card as a sweet add-on
Run a giveaway or social media contest leading up to Valentine’s Day

Bonus: Offer gift certificates as a romantic gift option.

3. Winter Wonderland Outdoor Shoots (If You’re in a Snowy Area)

Snowy portraits, kids playing in the cold, or bundled-up couples:

Market the aesthetic—cozy, magical, timeless
Great for families who missed fall sessions or want something different
Include a limited-edition product (snow globe frame, accordion mini-book, etc.)

Tip: Offer warm drinks post-shoot as a cozy bonus.

4. Branding & Headshot Refresh (January–March)

Many professionals update their websites and materials early in the year:

Target entrepreneurs, creatives, realtors, coaches, and small business owners
Offer quick sessions with fast turnaround
Consider partnering with a makeup artist for added value

Sample promo:
“Is your headshot older than your iPhone? Let’s fix that in 2026.”

5. Spring Forward Booking Bonus (Late March)

Encourage early booking for spring and summer:

Offer a small discount or free print credit for anyone who books in Q1 for an upcoming session (e.g., April–June)
Create limited slots to add urgency

Marketing hook:
“Book now, bloom later! Reserve your spring session and receive a $50 print credit.”

6. Client Appreciation Week (Anytime in Q1)

Celebrate your loyal clients with a week of perks:

Daily giveaways (gift cards, free prints, photo ornaments, etc.)
Early access to minis or limited sessions
Exclusive discounts or referral bonuses

Idea: Use it as a reason to reconnect with past clients via email or social.

7. Pet Portrait Weekend (February or March)

People love their pets—and winter weekends are great for indoor sessions:

Short, themed mini sessions for pets and their humans
Offer prints, canvases, or custom photo gifts
Great for social media buzz and word-of-mouth referrals

Final Tips for Q1 Photography Marketing:

Stay visible: Post regularly on social and email your list at least monthly
Build urgency: Use phrases like “limited availability,” “bonus ends Friday,” or “first 5 to book”
Lean into emotion: Winter is a reflective time—tap into that for family and legacy-themed shoots
Network with other local businesses after like customers. It offsets advertising costs and expands your marketing reach.