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The LEO Checklist: 7 Things Every Photographer’s Website Needs to Show Up in AI Search

July 10, 2025

You’ve heard that blogging helps your visibility. You might’ve even dabbled in SEO.

But if your website still isn’t showing up in Google or ChatGPT — there’s a reason.

And chances are, it’s not because you’re doing everything wrong… it’s because you’re missing a few core ingredients that LEO (LLM Engine Optimization) relies on.

The solution? A strategic, AI-optimized website that positions you as an expert.

Here’s the LEO-approved checklist you need to future-proof your website — and actually start getting found.


1. Keyword-Rich Service Pages

Your homepage isn’t enough.

You need dedicated, keyword-optimized pages for each offer — whether that’s weddings, elopements, Super 8 video, or branding photography.

Each page should include:

  • A clear location (e.g., “Charleston Wedding Photographer”)
  • Specific services listed in natural language
  • Internal links to related blog content

If you’re not sure where to begin, revisit your top 3 offers and ask: Do they each have their own optimized page? If not, that’s the place to start.

Related: How Blogging Will Outperform Instagram in 2025


2. Location-Rich Headers + Copy

Google still cares about location. So does ChatGPT.

Make sure your headers (H1s, H2s) and intros include:

  • City + state
  • Popular venues
  • Regional terms your clients might search

And remember: don’t overstuff — use this language naturally and confidently. Your headers should help both readers androbots understand where you work.

Related: Google Might Find You. ChatGPT Might Trust You. But Only If You Do This.


3. Blog Posts with a Point

Posting just to post isn’t the move.

Write blog content that solves problems, answers questions, or inspires trust. Examples:

  • “Best Wedding Venues in Charleston for Small Ceremonies”
  • “What to Expect When You Hire a Super 8 Videographer”
  • “How to Get the Most Out of a Destination Branding Shoot”

Not only will these help you rank for long-tail keywords, but they also position you as the go-to expert in your niche.

Related: Not All Blog Posts Are LEO-Friendly — Here’s How to Write One That Actually Gets Found


4. Internal Linking Structure

Every blog post and page should connect to:

  • Another blog
  • A service page
  • A relevant resource

This forms a topical network that tells AI: “I know this subject inside and out.”

Related: What Google Sees That Your Clients Don’t — And Why It’s Costing You Bookings

Don’t underestimate this step. A well-linked website improves authority, reduces bounce rates, and makes it easier for both bots and users to stay engaged.


5. Alt Text on Every Image

This isn’t just for accessibility — it’s for AI, too.

Every image should include:

  • A short, descriptive phrase (e.g., “bride walking down the aisle at Middleton Place”)
  • Location, subject, and detail if applicable

Alt text helps AI “read” your content like a person. Don’t skip it.

If you batch your blogs in Canva or Showit, make this part of your checklist before hitting publish.


6. Strong Metadata + Slugs

Your page title (what shows up in Google) and slug (the URL) matter.

Instead of:

  • jessica-and-matt Try:
  • middleton-place-wedding-charleston-photographer

That’s how you go from invisible to indexed.

Want to go deeper? Read our full breakdown on LLM Engine Optimization and how it shifts the way your site is interpreted by tools like ChatGPT.

Related: Your Dream Clients Are Asking ChatGPT About You (But Can It Find You?)


7. Clear Calls to Action (CTAs)

Don’t leave your readers wondering what to do next.

Every page and post should tell them where to go:

  • “Read this next” (link to a blog)
  • “Get pricing” (link to inquiry or services)
  • “Join the waitlist” (for a course or freebie)

CTAs help move traffic and signal site structure to AI models. Without them, your site becomes a dead end instead of a journey.


Ready to Check Off the List?

If your website is missing any of these pieces, you’re not broken — but you’re definitely missing opportunities.

This isn’t about more content. It’s about smarter structure.

And once you nail these 7 things? That’s when LEO starts working for you — while you sleep.

Want a step-by-step breakdown of how to implement this across your blog, site, and client journey? Join the Rankings to Revenue waitlist. (see– CTA’s aren’t that hard!)

Because the photographers getting booked next year? They won’t be the most followed — they’ll be the most findable.

Related: Why Most Education Platforms Are Just Pretty Pyramids

Photographer reviewing a checklist with a laptop open to their website homepage

We’re a collective of wedding industry outlaws who value liberation above all else. 

Founded in 2023, we were brought together by a desire for helping artists, a curiosity about the ever-changing wedding industry, and a passion for giving authentic craftsmanship the recognition it deserves.

If you are looking for a passionate team to remove the obstacles in your DIY marketing strategy so that you can shine, then we are the right agency for you.

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