Turning Sessions into Stories: How Studio Photographers Can Thrive in the Experience Economy
There’s no denying it — bookings have been harder to come by for many studio photographers recently. But while some consumer habits are changing, one thing remains clear: people are still spending. The difference? They’re prioritising experiences over things.
Welcome to the experience economy — where memories matter more than materials.
What’s the Experience Economy?
Simply put, the experience economy is a shift in how consumers choose to spend their money. Instead of buying products, people are investing in things that feel meaningful — like holidays, spa days, concerts, or any moment that creates lasting memories.
For photographers, this isn’t a problem — it’s a huge opportunity.
Photography Is an Experience — Let’s Sell It That Way
It’s easy to fall into the trap of marketing portrait sessions as a list of deliverables: “30-minute shoot, 10 edited images.” But in the experience economy, this just won’t cut it.
Clients aren’t just looking for photos — they’re looking for connection, emotion, and storytelling. Your job isn’t just to take pictures; it’s to create an experience they’ll remember, and images they’ll treasure.
Here’s How to Shift Your Approach:
1. Sell the Story, Not the Session
Your session is more than a booking slot — it’s a chance to celebrate a relationship, freeze a fleeting moment, or mark a milestone.
Use language that reflects this in your marketing:
- “Celebrate your family’s bond with a relaxed, joyful portrait experience.”
- “Capture the wonder of childhood with a themed storytelling shoot.”
Don’t just talk about what they get — talk about how it will feel.
2. Create Themed, Limited-Edition Experiences
People love exclusivity and novelty. Turn standard shoots into mini-events with a theme:
- Springtime Garden Experience
- Vintage Dress-Up Day
- Fairytale Portraits for Kids
- Pet & Owner Studio Day
Add music, props, refreshments — even small touches create a more immersive feel.
3. Partner with Local Businesses
Team up with:
- Spas for makeover & shoot packages
- Cafés for “coffee & portrait” mornings
- Hair salons or boutiques for styled sessions
This adds value and opens up new audiences.
4. Promote Giftable Experiences
The public is actively searching for meaningful gifts. Position your shoots as the perfect present:
- “Give the gift of memories — portrait vouchers now available.”
- “Celebrate mum with a mother-daughter experience day.”
Think birthdays, anniversaries, Christmas, or even baby showers.
5. Make It Instagrammable
Design your studio or sets with social sharing in mind. People love to post about their experiences — and if you make the session feel like a special event, they’ll want to show it off.
A few small details — fresh flowers, props, a branded wall — can make all the difference.
6. Run “Experience Days” with Limited Spaces
Once a month, host a themed day with set time slots, a warm welcome, and added extras. You can:
- Create a sense of exclusivity
- Drive urgency with “limited availability”
- Generate social content and word-of-mouth
7. Educate Clients About the Value
Don’t assume people know how special your service is. Show them:
- Behind-the-scenes videos
- Testimonials focused on the experience, not just the final product
- Before-and-after examples with emotional storytelling
A New Way to Market Your Work
This isn’t about gimmicks — it’s about aligning with how people already want to spend. By repositioning your shoots as meaningful experiences, you not only increase bookings — you deepen your impact.
And remember: you’re not just in the photography business. You’re in the memory-making business.
Need help repositioning your sessions or refreshing your marketing? Members of The Society of Photographers can take advantage of:
- Regular Photographic Webinars
- Full Business Listing on our directory
