5 Practical Ways Photographers Can Use Social Media Video to Grow Their Business and Brand

As a photographer, you’ve already mastered the art of capturing the perfect image. But in today’s social media-driven world, clients and audiences are looking for more—they want engaging video content that tells a story and captures attention.

But I get it: you don't want to become a videographer. That's a whole other "thing."

Videography is another skill set, and just because you have an adjacent one, doesn't mean you need to master this one. However, "showing up" on social media and creating engaging social media content does not equal videography necessarily.

You do not need to master color grading, audio engineering, and cinematic filmmaking. Creating vertically formatted video doesn't have to be this big, daunting, all-consuming thing that takes over all your time and business. So let's dive into 5 practical tips to get you started:

1. Share Quick Photography Tips and Tutorials

As a photographer, you have valuable knowledge to share. Leverage vertical video to teach your audience simple photography tips, tricks, or tutorials. Whether it’s lighting techniques, posing tips, or camera settings, offering educational content positions you as an authority in your field while also attracting engagement.

Tip: Keep these videos short and snappy—under a minute works best for platforms like Instagram Reels or TikTok. This is an easy way to provide value while keeping your audience coming back for more.

2. Showcase Your Process with Behind-the-Scenes Videos

People love seeing how things are made, and as a photographer, you’ve got a behind-the-scenes world that your audience would love to explore. Use short-form videos to document your shoots, showing your lighting setups, camera gear, and how you interact with clients. This not only showcases your expertise but also gives potential clients a taste of what it’s like to work with you.

Tip: Keep it simple by using your smartphone to capture clips during your shoots. Post these as Instagram Reels or TikTok videos to show the real-time process of creating your stunning images.

3. Highlight Your Gear and Setup

Take advantage of vertical video to give your audience a glimpse into your gear. Whether you’re showcasing your camera, favorite lens, lighting setup, or editing software, this type of content is quick to create and resonates well with photography enthusiasts.

Tip: Make this a recurring series where you share one piece of gear at a time. Again, keep it simple—explain what it does, why you like it, and how you use it in your shoots. It’s a great way to engage your audience without requiring a big time commitment.

4. Build Your Personal Brand by Showing Your Personality

Create videos that not only show your work but also give a glimpse into who you are as a photographer. Whether it’s sharing your creative inspiration, giving a tour of your studio, or talking about why you’re passionate about photography, this kind of content helps build a deeper connection with your audience.

Tip: Don’t be afraid to let your unique voice and style come through– and keep in mind it might take you some time to discover what your unique voice even is. Authenticity resonates on social media.

5. Offer Special Promotions and Announcements

Social media video is a highly effective way to announce new services, special promotions, or upcoming projects. Video content tends to get more engagement than static posts, so when you’re launching something new—like a mini-session offer or a new photography package—use vertical video to make the announcement.

Tip: Include a strong call to action in these videos, encouraging viewers to book your services, visit your website, or contact you for more information. This adds urgency and encourages potential clients to take the next step.

Want to Take Your Video Skills to the Next Level?

If you’re excited about using video to grow your business and personal brand, you’re already on the right track. But to truly stand out, it’s essential to master the art of creating high-quality vertical videos that are polished, professional, and engaging.

That’s where my Vertical Video Mastery course comes in. This course is designed to help photographers like you confidently add video services to your portfolio, attract new clients, and grow your business in ways you never thought possible.

You’ll learn everything you need to create stunning vertical videos—from shooting and editing to delivering final products that your clients will love. And the best part? You can start at your own pace, with lifetime access to all the course materials.

Ready to Get Started?

If you’re ready to master vertical video and take your business to the next level, Vertical Video Mastery is the perfect place to begin. Stay tuned for more details on how you can join and get access to exclusive early access pricing.