When working in the wedding industry, it is already known fact that it has its peaks and lows throughout the year. There are months when your calendar is packed, and you’re running from one photoshoot to the next, but there are also those inevitable quiet spells where client work slows down. I have always found that instead of viewing these slow months as downtime, I like to invest in my business from the “behind-the-scenes” category. You know- the work that seemingly goes unseen, but plays a significant part in the success of a business. Below are some of the things I spent time on to elevate my business for the next busy season!

Everything online


As photographers, we know that the thing that keeps bringing us inquiries in is our portfolio and visibility online these days. The first impression of our website is our brand reputation. It is literally the heart of the business. I like to review the new galleries that haven’t been shared yet on my website and socials. I also find it important, because throughout the years, the style and skills of your photographing-editing style are changing and you want to showcase it. There are a couple of things I keep in mind when revamping my website:


  • Refresh your website with new content and optimize it for SEO (trust me, it’s important for Google to see you!)
  • Ensure your portfolio showcases the kind of work you want to attract. If you’re pivoting to new areas, like weddings or product photography, the “quiet months” is time to make sure those categories are prominently displayed.
  • Engaging with past and future clients, posting more frequently, sharing behind-the-scenes insights, and checking in with past clients.


Modern living room corner with globe lamp, gray throw pillows and sheer curtains by window.
White boucle accent chair with gray pillow on area rug in minimalist interior setting.
Cozy evening table setting with wine glass, dried flowers and laptop against blue window view.
Steaming cup of coffee on wooden table with soft window light in background.
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working on personal projects


I have found that networking and creating personal connections with others are two of the most beneficial aspects when working in the photography business. I mean, it’s almost self-explanatory. But in months when my calendar is more accessible, I like to make the projects that interest me personally into reality. That can be anything from creating styled photoshoots to collaborating with like-minded people and photographing their stories. It’s also very good for cross-marketing! They get new photos, and I get the exposure by doing what makes my own heart ring!

Learning


I think I don’t need to tell you that we are working in an industry that is constantly evolving with new techniques, equipment, and post-production processes is regularly emerging. I find that the quiet period is perfect for getting excited again by learning something new, like on the days when I just started out.

  • Learning New Techniques: Whether it's mastering lighting setups or understanding advanced post-processing methods, use online courses, YouTube tutorials, or workshops to expand your skills.
  • Experimenting with New Gear: Test out any new equipment you've been meaning to try, such as lenses, lighting rigs, or drones, and learn how to use them effectively.
  • Improving Post-Production Skills: Deepen your knowledge of the editing software you are using. There is always a way to do something faster and better.


Workspace with MacBook, dried flowers and desk accessories in warm lighting.
Two hanging metal pots on white kitchen shelf with camera equipment.

building relationships


I think I cannot stress how much more accessible and better working in that industry is when knowing the people around you. Especially when you are working in a small community (like Iceland or a smaller city/town in the world). Some years ago I created a group for local photographers in Iceland and turning those “quiet months”, I like to plan meet ups, to connect and reflect on the past season. As well as finding time for exhibitions, industry-relevant talks or joining groups with mind-liked people.

workflow for future


I get very excited when I renew something that I see can be improved. For example - how my contracts can be more optimized, creating systems to keep up with my projects. That allows me to be more focused on what really matters to me - capturing the moments. In the quiet months, I start thinking about all the things that could help me become a better photographer and business owner for future clients.

Modern globe lamp fixture mounted on wall next to cork board with papers.

unplug


After a whirlwind of back-to-back weddings and constant creativity, I’ve learned that unplugging from photography isn’t just a luxury—it’s essential. Taking time away from the camera helps me recharge both mentally and physically. I find it’s the perfect opportunity to focus on something completely different. Whether it’s cleaning out my storage, finally repainting that living room wall I’ve been putting off, or escaping on a holiday abroad, stepping away allows me to reset my creative energy. These breaks give me a fresh perspective and help me come back even more vital for the next season.

And overall, like a New Year’s promise, I like to gather my dreams and wishes at the end of each year, to set new goals and plan for the future. Where I wanna be, what kind of projects I wanna focus on, and how I can grow even bigger and better than the previous year. Once when they are written down, I like to make a plan how this could be done. I personally think that the quiet months are crucial for the May-September season, when there are no free weekends and the post-production list can be scary-long.

Take time to slow down and connect with your business again, so you could be able to show up stronger the following season!