Are you eager to expand your photography business by gaining exposure and having your work featured on online directories? Keep reading…

There has been a significant shift in the types of inquiries I receive and I firmly believe that sending inquiries with full galleries that are linked to publications sets you apart and demonstrates your value.

Here are some important tips I’ve gathered over the past few years (and have directly sourced from Ruffled’s website):

What directories are seeking:

– Micro weddings and chic backyard weddings

– Submissions with a chic, colourful, feminine, cheerful, elegant, and stylish mood

– Unique cultural weddings from diverse backgrounds

– Destination weddings (consider the directory’s location and whether the wedding is outside that country)

– Seasonal weddings

– Content that hasn’t been seen before or fits into their publishing schedule

Types of images they typically seek:

– Cake (both vertical and horizontal shots)

– Close-up of the bouquet

– Wedding gown (especially if it’s custom, including close-ups and details)

– Hair shot from the back (slightly side profile)

– Couple together (both vertical and horizontal, leaving negative space for text)

– Ceremony backdrop (vertical and horizontal, both wide and close shots)

– Centrepieces (wide and close-ups)

– Macro shots of wedding and engagement rings (placed with intention)

– Reception space (wide and close-ups)

– Place setting (aerial shots, including both couples’ name tags)

– Seating chart display (wide shots showing the reception in the background, as well as close-ups)

– Wedding shoes (get creative, think outside the box)

– Bridesmaids together with bouquets (vertical shots)

– Stationery (approached in a unique way, as the traditional flat-lay is phasing out)

Certain publications may not be interested in:

– Engagement sessions

– Bridal sessions or boudoir

– Lifestyle, portrait, and maternity sessions

– Elopements that are primarily portrait-focused

You don’t need to adhere to a fine art (bright & airy) photography editing style; instead, find the right directory that aligns with your style and vibe. With that being said, you have to have a polished edit. You have to have a clean curated list of 100 images that tell the story of the day. 

If you feel like you don’t have any work that would get accepted for publishing you HAVE to (and I can’t stress this enough) organize a styled shoot. Make sure you’re creating something new and never been seen before (do your research!) and has diversity. This will most likely cost you some money, but it will be worth it!

Keep in mind as well some publications will only allow you to submit your work if you have a paid online directory listing with them and others will give precedence to those who have a listing on their site.

Regardless of rejections, don’t give up. Each wedding you submit will improve your chances because you’ll continue to grow personally.

If you have any questions, feel free to email me. Get to work and help your business thrive!