What to Do When You’re Not Booking Sessions

Permission to pause the spiral—and build momentum instead.

If you’re staring at your calendar wondering why it's not filling up like it used to—or like you hoped it would—take a deep breath. You’re not alone, and more importantly, you’re not doing anything wrong.

Every photographer—yes, even the ones you admire most—has gone through seasons of crickets. It’s easy to spiral into self-doubt when inquiries slow down, but let’s flip the script. Instead of panic, let’s turn this into a purposeful pause.Here’s how to shift from stress to strategy—with a mix of mindset, marketing, and momentum-building action.

1. Reframe the Slow Season

First, let’s release the guilt. A dip in bookings doesn’t mean you’re not good at what you do. It doesn’t mean you’re failing. It means you’re human and you’re running a real business—one that goes through seasons.

Use this time to reflect:

Have you grown creatively in ways your current portfolio doesn’t yet show?
Are your offers aligned with the clients you want to serve?
Are you showing up online as the version of you your dream clients would trust and connect with?

This isn’t wasted time—it’s a window for recalibration.

2. Audit Your Portfolio with Fresh Eyes

Sometimes the work we’re sharing isn’t quite in sync with the clients we want to attract. Take a day to audit your portfolio and ask:

Is this the kind of work I want to book more of?
Am I showcasing the style, emotion, and stories I want to be known for?

Consider doing a creative shoot to breathe fresh life into your website and social media. Design the session you want to shoot—dreamy light, beautiful styling, intentional storytelling. Then shout about it.

3. Rework Your Packages + Pricing

If your bookings are slow, your offers might be too vague or too complicated. Simplify.

Ask yourself:

Is it clear what’s included and how it benefits the client?
Are my packages structured to encourage upgrades?
Am I offering what my dream clients actually want—or what I assume they want?

Consider creating a limited-time offer or bundle that feels exciting and fresh. Sometimes people just need a little extra nudge to commit.

4. Build or Refine Your Email Funnel

No inquiries doesn’t mean no interest. People might be quietly watching you, unsure when or how to book. A thoughtful email sequence can nurture those leads and convert them down the road.

Start by creating:

A lead magnet (like a mini guide, checklist, or freebie that dream clients would love)
A welcome sequence that shares your story, style, and process
Consistent value emails that keep you top of mind in a non-salesy way
If you already have a sequence—amazing! Use this time to refresh your messaging and design.

5. Show Up More Authentically Online

You don’t need to be perfect to be powerful. People want to book with someone they connect with—not just someone who takes great photos.

Post what you love. Share behind the scenes. Talk about what inspires you. Tell a story from a recent session or from your own life.

Engagement starts when people feel seen and understood—and that starts with you being willing to show up real.

6. Keep Moving, Even If It’s Small Steps

Momentum builds with motion. Don’t wait until you “feel inspired.” Do one thing today:

Write a blog post (like this one!)
DM past clients and check in
Design a new social media graphic
Record a short video tip for Instagram
Update your “About Me” page with your current vision

Progress doesn’t have to be loud to be powerful. Quiet steps still move you forward.

Momentum builds with motion. Don’t wait until you “feel inspired.”

Do one thing today:

Write a blog post (like this one!)
DM past clients and check in
Design a new social media graphic
Record a short video tip for Instagram
Update your “About Me” page with your current vision