Why Every Wedding Photographer Needs a CRM (and How to Choose One)
December 11, 2024
As a wedding photographer, your days are packed—shooting sessions, editing galleries, emailing clients, and somehow keeping track of all the moving pieces of your business. Sound familiar? You’re not alone. The endless to-do list is why more photographers are turning to a powerful tool: a CRM (Client Relationship Management) system.
If you’ve been managing your business with sticky notes and spreadsheets, it’s time to level up. A CRM helps you organize, streamline, + grow your business—so you can focus on what you love: creating art + capturing moments.
But with recent changes like HoneyBook’s price increase, you might be wondering if now’s the time to reconsider your CRM. Should you stick with what you know or explore new options? We covered that in-depth here (link to the HoneyBook article), but first, let’s dive into why a CRM is essential + how to choose the right one for you.
What is a CRM, and Why Do You Need One?
A CRM is a tool that helps you manage your client relationships + business processes in one place. Think of it as your virtual assistant, keeping track of:
- Client Communication: Emails, follow-ups, + reminders.
- Bookings + Contracts: Seamlessly manage inquiries, contracts, + payments.
- Workflows: Automate tasks like sending invoices or client guides.
- Scheduling: Sync your calendar + book sessions without the back-and-forth.
But it’s more than just organization. A CRM allows you to deliver a seamless client experience—something that sets you apart + keeps clients coming back.
The Benefits of Using a CRM
Still unsure if a CRM is worth it? Here’s how it can transform your photography business:
- Stay Organized
No more lost emails or missed deadlines. A CRM keeps everything in one place, so you always know where you stand with each client. - Save Time
Automate repetitive tasks like sending invoices, contracts, + follow-ups. Spend less time on admin + more time shooting. - Elevate Your Client Experience
Deliver a professional, seamless experience from inquiry to gallery delivery. Clients appreciate the smooth process—and they’ll rave about it. - Increase Bookings
With automated follow-ups + organized workflows, no lead slips through the cracks. More follow-ups = more bookings. - Track Your Business Growth
CRMs provide insights into your bookings, income, + client patterns so you can make smarter decisions.
Stat to Consider: Businesses that use CRMs see a 29% increase in sales and a 34% increase in productivity(Salesforce). Imagine what that could do for your photography business!
What About HoneyBook’s Price Increase?
HoneyBook has long been a popular CRM for photographers, but with their recent price hike, many photographers are wondering if it’s still the best fit. If you’re feeling the pressure, you’re not alone. We explored the pros + cons of staying with HoneyBook or switching to another CRM in this article.
If you’re considering a switch, read on for tips on how to find the right CRM for your needs.
How to Choose the Right CRM for Your Business
Not all CRMs are created equal. Here’s how to find the one that fits your needs:
- Identify Your Must-Have Features
Consider what’s most important to your workflow. Do you need:- Automated workflows?
- Contract + invoice management?
- Client communication tracking?
- Scheduling tools?
- Consider Ease of Use
A CRM should make your life easier, not harder. Look for an intuitive interface + easy setup. Many CRMs offer free trials—take advantage of them to see what feels right. - Check for Customization
Can you tailor the CRM to match your branding + processes? The more you can customize it, the more it will feel like your system. - Budget Wisely
Some CRMs have monthly fees, while others charge annually. Consider what fits your budget, but remember: a good CRM is an investment that can save you time + grow your business. - Look for Industry-Specific Options
Photographers have unique needs. Choosing a CRM designed for creatives ensures you get the features that matter most to your business.
Top CRM Options for Photographers
Need a place to start? Here are some popular CRMs that photographers are loving:
- HoneyBook
- All-in-one platform for contracts, invoices, + client communication.
- User-friendly with strong automation features.
- Dubsado
- Highly customizable workflows + client portals.
- Great for photographers who love detailed automation.
- 17hats
- Simplifies project management + bookkeeping.
- Ideal for photographers managing multiple projects at once.
- Studio Ninja
- Designed specifically for photographers.
- Simple interface + strong automation tools.
- Unscripted
- Combines CRM features with posing guides + creative tools.
- Great for photographers who want inspiration + organization in one place.
- Tave
- Designed specifically for photographers.
- Detailed reporting + robust client management.
Ready to Transform Your Business with a CRM?
A CRM isn’t just another tool—it’s a game-changer for your business. It helps you stay organized, save time, + deliver an experience that wows your clients. Whether you stay with HoneyBook or explore new options, the right CRM can take your business to the next level.
Need help deciding? Check out our deep dive on whether you should stay or switch from HoneyBook. Your perfect CRM is out there, and it’s waiting to help you thrive.
Are you using a CRM, or are you considering making a switch? Share your thoughts in the comments or DM us—we’d love to hear your experience + help you find the right fit! 💬✨