The COVID-19 pandemic has turned the world upside down, disrupting lives and livelihoods everywhere. From global corporations to small creative businesses, no one has escaped its effects, and the photography industry is no exception.
With events, weddings, and gatherings canceled or postponed, many photographers have seen their schedules vanish overnight. But this doesn’t mean you have to pause your passion or your career. With the right mindset and strategies, you can use this challenging time to prepare for a stronger comeback.
How Photographers Can Stay Productive During the Pandemic
Here are 10 actionable tips to help photographers navigate this pandemic and keep their business moving forward.
1. Stay Positive and Adapt
First and foremost, keep a positive outlook. Business may be slow, and weddings or events may be on hold, but this is not the end of your journey. Use this downtime to adapt and grow. Explore new photography niches or expand your skill set so you’re ready when the market bounces back.
2. Postpone, Don’t Cancel
If clients are canceling shoots, work with them to reschedule instead of canceling outright. Review your photography contracts, reach out personally, and offer flexible dates. Even if some say no, others will appreciate the gesture and stick with you.
3. Get Your Finances in Order
If you haven’t paid your taxes yet, now’s the time to calculate your earnings and clear dues. Governments in many countries have extended tax deadlines — for example, IRS COVID-19 tax relief in the U.S. — but settling them now can prevent future stress.
4. Save More, Spend Less
Be mindful of expenses. Cut unnecessary purchases and focus only on essentials like rent, utilities, and food. Set aside emergency savings to cover unexpected needs — your financial discipline now can give you stability later.
5. Refresh Your Website & Portfolio
Your online presence is your digital storefront. Use this free time to clean up your website:
- Remove outdated or low-quality images.
- Fix broken links.
- Update your bio and service descriptions.
If you don’t have a site yet, consider platforms like Squarespace or Format that are photographer-friendly.
6. Build and Nurture Your Network
Reach out to past clients to check in — not to sell, but to connect. Show genuine care for their well-being. Also, engage with potential clients through LinkedIn, Instagram, or virtual photography groups. Relationships you build now can turn into bookings later.
7. Reorganize Your Gear
Sort through your camera equipment and decide what’s essential. If you have unused gear, consider selling it on KEH Camera or B&H Used Gear. This is also a good time to clean, service, and store your equipment properly.
8. Learn New Photography Skills
Expand your capabilities beyond shooting. Master editing techniques like background removal, image masking, and color correction. You could also explore product photography, still life, or other indoor creative styles.
9. Read and Research
Feed your creativity and knowledge. Read photography books or study the work of industry legends. Even non-photography books can inspire fresh perspectives in your work.
10. Join Photography Contests
Many organizations — such as the International Photography Awards (IPA), Getty Images Contests, and Magnum Photos Competitions — hold online challenges. Submit your best work and challenge yourself creatively.
Final Thoughts
This pandemic has undeniably hit photographers hard, but it also offers a rare opportunity: time to improve, reorganize, and prepare. Whether it’s refining your portfolio, strengthening client relationships, or mastering new skills, every small effort now can lead to big results later.
Stay positive, keep shooting (even at home), and be ready — because the day will come when the world is ready for your lens again.