Why Should I Blog and How do I Get Started?
The Cherry Bloom in Northern Michigan
The great thing about photography blogs is that they have tremendous potential to gain a readership quickly. People love images. Just take a look on Facebook and see what elicits the most response. Usually it’s photos, even poor ones. So just imagine when you start posting YOUR photos (which are good ones, right?), with compelling text to go along with them. People suddenly become interested, the goal being that they eventually become engaged.
Think of your blog as the personality of your website. The reason I use this analogy is because much like your personality, your blog’s focus can change dependent on your mood, what you feel like writing about, the images you feel like posting, recent and relevant events and other interesting tidbits that make you, you. If you’re a photography equipment junkie, guess what? You’re not alone! Why not post an occasional review of a new lens that you’re super excited about having in your bag. To gain the attention and respect of a varied audience is your goal. Photo industry enthusiasts, professionals, and customers alike can benefit from your information. Mix it up! Someone who does a great job of this is Daniel H. Bailey in his Adventure Photography Blog. Why not grasp onto some ideas of others’, nab a little inspiration, but remember – make it your own.
To get started for free, check out WordPress, Blogger, or Typepad and set up your blog. All have online help, tutorials or some variation. Once you get started make yourself a little schedule and do your best to stick to it. Once per week would be a great goal. If that’s too much then write a post twice per month, just try to be consistent. At first, just let the expression flow and feel good about it, about getting your words out. Share it on your Facebook Page, Twitter, and tell your friends. Once you’re relatively comfortable with writing and sharing, it’s time to contact us about the techniques and benefits of blogging for SEO (search engine optimization). There’s a whole strategy here and you can slowly increase your site traffic (and your prospects) once you learn it.
I hope this was useful.
Drew Warner | SEO Specialist
