Can you book wedding photography clients from Craigslist?

Photographers who may just be starting out in wedding photography might stop to wonder about Craigslist. Can you really book wedding photography jobs off of Craigslist? Let’s dive into why you shouldn’t brush off Craigslist for booking wedding photography clients just yet.

The short answer: yes, you really can book wedding photography clients from Craigslist.

Hear me out. We live in a pretty tech-savvy time. As a photographer, it’s likely you’re pretty digitally savvy as well. That doesn’t mean, however, everyone is in the same boat as you. There are tons of people who don’t know how to find a wedding photographer online beyond asking on listing sites. Craigslist is surprisingly a great place to find wedding photography clients.

Where to find wedding photography jobs on Craigslist

Try searching your local area for both “gigs” and “jobs” that say words like “photographer” and “photography”. You can also search in surrounding areas, which is especially helpful if you’re living in a hub like New York. It can be a bit unpredictable with how some people word their posts, whether they say “Wedding Photos Needed” or “Wedding Photography”.

Not every client is your ideal client

The idea of your “ideal client” comes into play when it comes to general listing sites. If you’re chasing the lead, as opposed to them seeking you out, how will you know they’re your ideal client? The best place to start: a conversation. Many people using Craigslist will be forthright about their budget, while others are price shopping. If they’re asking for a rate, initiate the conversation. Figure out what their needs are, what they’re looking for, and what they’re willing to pay. If they list a budget and it’s not worth your time, don’t feel too bad about moving on.

The source means nothing – your connection with the couple does

Just because they’re looking on Craigslist doesn’t mean they’re not serious about their photography needs. Honestly, some people just don’t know how else to start with their photography search. Once you initiate the conversation with the clients, that’s when you get to understand whether or not they are a good fit for your business. Some photographers subscribe to the idea that any client is an ideal client, while others are searching for more of a personality fit. Whatever the case may be, suss out your clients with emails, phone calls, or even a coffee.

Ensure you use contracts

Like with any photography job, it’s important to remember to use a contract. When you’re booking a wedding photography client off of Craigslist, use a contract to ensure that things run smoothly. A contract will protect you and your business, and help move things along with your client. Never start a photography job without a contract!