Photography Marketing That Works in Small Towns with Kate Decoste {podcast}

Photography Marketing Lessons from Small Town Success

Photography marketing is the backbone of any thriving photography business, no matter where you live. In this conversation with Kate Decoste, we dig into what it really takes to build a high end brand in a small town and still pull clients from surrounding bigger cities. Kate proves that photography marketing is less about population size and more about clarity, intentional strategy, and client experience.

Building Visibility Beyond Your Zip Code

Kate started her business in Wahoo, Nebraska, a town of fewer than 5,000 people. Instead of letting that limit her, she focused on reaching clients in nearby Omaha and Lincoln. Photography marketing was the bridge that helped her cross from a local base to a regional presence. By leveraging SEO, Google My Business, and intentional content, she made it easy for clients to find her online and feel confident about booking.

Why SEO Still Matters More Than Social Media

Many photographers obsess over Instagram or TikTok, but Kate shared that nearly 99% of her clients find her through Google. That’s the power of SEO and blogging as a photography marketing tool. While social media can be fun and supportive, search engines are where the highest-quality leads come from. If your website doesn’t make it clear who you are, where you’re located, and how to book, you’re missing out on serious opportunities.

The Client Experience as Marketing

Photography marketing doesn’t stop once someone clicks “book now.” The way you guide clients through the entire journey: your communication, your ease of booking, and your follow up – all become part of your brand. Kate shared how her clients often remark on how easy she makes the process. That level of intentionality creates word-of-mouth marketing, which is still one of the most powerful ways to grow.

Mindset and Marketing Go Hand in Hand

So many photographers hold themselves back by thinking they can’t charge premium prices in small towns. Kate’s perspective was refreshing: your bills aren’t smaller just because your town is. Value yourself, set your prices, and let your photography marketing bring in the right people. Some may not value photography, but those who do will happily invest, regardless of where you live.

Standing Out in a Saturated Market

Kate reminded us that the market isn’t “too saturated”- it’s full of opportunity. Her early work with model teams helped her stand out, and now her branding and headshot work does the same. Photography marketing is about showing your unique style and energy so clients know exactly why they should choose you. When you’re authentic and clear, the right people will find you and say yes.

Q: What is the most effective photography marketing strategy in small towns?
A: SEO and Google My Business consistently outperform social media in driving quality leads for small town photographers.

Q: Can I charge premium prices for photography in a small town?
A: Yes. As Kate shared, your bills are the same no matter where you live. When you value your work and market it intentionally, clients who value photography will invest.

Q: How can blogging help my photography marketing?
A: Blogging adds valuable keywords to your site, builds SEO, and makes it easier for clients to find you. Even if they don’t read every word, Google does.

Q: What role does mindset play in photography marketing?
A: Mindset is everything. If you believe your market won’t pay, you’ll act small. When you believe your work is valuable, your marketing reflects that confidence.

Q: How do I stand out in a saturated photography market?
A: Highlight what makes you different. Show your personality, create unique client experiences, and use your photography marketing to amplify that story.