Text messaging has become an incredibly powerful tool for business communication, and this is true for service based businesses like photography, too!

With an average open rate of 98%, compared to just 19.8% for email, it’s clear that texting can have a massive impact on driving conversion rates (helping you get more sales) and boosting client engagement (helping you create happier clients who rave about you).

For photographers, integrating text messaging into your communication strategy can improve the client experience and open up new opportunities for engagement and sales.

While you don’t have to use text messaging in your business (and there are reasonable reasons for this), it’s important to understand what you might be leaving on the table by not utilizing it.

In today’s world, texting has become a more accepted and often preferred method of communication. Many clients, especially younger generations like Gen Z, actually appreciate authentic interactions via text—sometimes even more than email or phone calls.

Ready to learn more?

Why Use Text Messaging?

One of the key reasons text messaging is so effective is its personal and direct nature.

By the time you’re texting a client, they’ve given you their phone number, which means they’ve already opted in for communication in some way. This opens the door for you to respond via email, text, or even a phone call, depending on what the client feels most comfortable with.

For many, texting is an easier and more convenient form of communication than email.

It feels more personal and allows for quicker responses, which is critical in today’s fast-paced world.

But let’s address the elephant in the room: many business owners, including photographers, are hesitant to use text messaging because it can feel intrusive or overwhelming to have yet another form of communication to manage.

The reality is, if text messaging feels like it would burn you out, you don’t have to do it.

You’re in control of your business, and it’s important to set boundaries that work for you.

However, by choosing not to use text, it’s important to understand what potential opportunities you might be missing.

You should also know…Business VOIP solutions can provide a good opportunity to be able to text without some of the regular issues people have with it (like privacy concerns).

The Impact of Texting on Client Relationships

Texting can establish a more personal relationship, even when offering professional services like photography.

It’s less formal than email and doesn’t feel as pushy as a sales pitch over the phone.

In fact, we actually would go as far as to say that texting actually can act as a courtesy—showing clients that you’re responsive, approachable, and ready to communicate on their terms.

One strategy we use is texting immediately after receiving an inquiry.

I send a follow-up email, as I normally would, but I also use text as a non-intrusive way to let clients know I’ve received their inquiry and that I’m excited to work with them. It also gives them the option to continue the conversation via text or email—whichever they prefer.

Sometimes, I’ll mention that I’m texting to ensure they received my email, as we all know emails can occasionally end up in spam folders. This helps bridge the gap between formal communication and a more casual, personable connection.

At it’s core, texting can be provided as a method of communication, but not the only one – and some clients are going to appreciate this!

How to Use Texting in Your Photography Business

The key to using texting effectively is to keep it simple, informal, and personal.

Think of texting a client like sending a quick note to a friend.

Avoid making it overly salesy—this isn’t about pushing your services, but rather maintaining a courteous and helpful connection. You want to come across as approachable and excited to communicate, without pressuring the client.

Another way to integrate texting into your workflow is during the gallery delivery process.

For example, when I send a client their wedding gallery, I’ll follow up with a quick text or even a voice message saying something like, “Hey, just wanted to let you know your gallery is ready, and I am so hyped about it! Can’t wait to see what your favorites are, send me some screenshots!”

By using a voice message, I can convey my excitement and enthusiasm, which helps get the client just as excited about their photos. It also opens up the opportunity to mention things like album design or prints, without making it feel like a sales pitch. It’s a genuine and personal touch that resonates with clients.

This is just one of MANY ways text can be used to communicate in your photo business!

3 Simple Benefits of Texting for Client Communication

Text messaging provides an effective way to:

• Enhance client experience: It makes the communication feel more personal and less formal, fostering a stronger connection with your clients.
• Open up sales opportunities: By casually mentioning products like prints or albums in a non-salesy way, you can generate additional revenue streams.
• Improve communication: Texting allows you to respond quickly and stay top of mind with your clients, helping to keep the process smooth and efficient.

Texting also creates opportunities for more organic interactions that can enhance the overall client experience, whether that’s sending reminders, offering support, or simply keeping clients excited about the process.

Conclusion

Text messaging can be a powerful tool to enhance your client experience, improve communication, and open the door to new sales opportunities.

By integrating texting into your workflow, you create a more personal connection with clients, while keeping the lines of communication open in a way that feels genuine and approachable.

Whether you’re following up on an inquiry or delivering a gallery, text messaging can make clients feel genuinely cared for and excited to work with you.