We’re down to the wire for 2025, leaving the remaining days of December to wrap up loose ends. It’s also the perfect time to start setting the stage for the new year.
I know you’ve got a lot going on, but there are still plenty of things you can be doing—or keeping on the back burner—to give your business a strong start in January.
1. Make Smart Last-Minute Purchases – Before the clock runs out, check with your accountant about any business expenses that make sense to purchase now. From new lenses to upgraded software, certain end-of-year buys could qualify for tax deductions. It’s a simple way to invest in your business while getting a financial break.
2. Launch a Third-Party Promotion – The first quarter of the year often slows down—but it doesn’t have to be a slump! January is a great time to collaborate with local businesses through creative promotions.
Instead of discounting your services directly, print gift certificates for a free portrait sitting that a third party can give to their clients.
For example:
- A realtor includes a certificate with a home purchase.
- An insurance agency uses it as a client thank-you.
- A salon adds it to a premium package.
Everyone wins—the partner adds value for their clients, the recipient gets a meaningful gift, and you gain new business without undercutting your prices.
3. Build Strategic Partnerships – There’s still time to set up cross-promotions with 2–3 other local businesses targeting similar audiences. Think of florists, spas, salons, restaurants—or even other photographers.
A partnership between a wedding photographer, maternity artist, and family portrait photographer can create a powerful referral network. Collaboration builds awareness and community credibility that advertising dollars can’t buy.
4. Send Thank-You Notes That Build Loyalty – A personal thank-you note goes a long way in building repeat business. Use December to send a “thank-you for a great year” card to your clients. Include a gentle incentive to book again in January—an updated family portrait, new headshot, or other service.
You can design custom thank-you cards and campaigns through Marathon Press to keep your brand polished and professional.
5. Offer ‘Day in the Life’ Sessions
January is the perfect time for a creative boost. A Day in the Life session gives clients a unique, documentary-style experience right in their own environment—home, park, or favorite hangout.
It’s ideal for families, kids, and pets, and it allows you to flex your storytelling skills. Even better, these sessions often lead to album and print sales, giving your slow season a welcome revenue bump.
6. Bring Back ‘Throwback Thursday’
Use your blog or social media to share favorite images from past sessions. It’s a fun, nostalgic way to remind followers how much time has passed—and that it might be time for an updated portrait.
This subtle approach works beautifully to stay top of mind, especially with parents who notice just how much their kids have grown.
No single blog post can cover every opportunity you should be taking advantage of right now—but here’s the point:
It might be December, but you’ll miss out if you keep waiting for the business fairy to sprinkle magic dust on your doorstep. There are no unicorns in photography marketing—just hard work, smart strategy, and consistent visibility.
So as you wrap up 2025, remember: January isn’t the time to go quiet. It’s the perfect time to make a little noise!
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