Marketing to Savannah’s Tourism Market

Alright, let’s get real: Savannah is tourist central, and that’s great news for you as a photographer! Picture this: tons of people showing up daily, looking around at the Spanish moss, saying, “This is so beautiful! I need pictures!” You, my friend, are the answer to their vacation-dream-photo needs. The secret? Connect with local folks who are already talking to all those tourists and let them help you get your name out there.

Here’s how:

• team up with hotels and B&B's

  Those charming Savannah inns and historic hotels near Forsyth Park? They’re hosting loads of tourists who would probably love to take a piece of Savannah back with them—aka a sweet vacation photo shoot.

  Get friendly with the staff at a few boutique hotels or B&Bs and offer them a referral rate. Maybe even offer to take fresh photos of their hotel in exchange for being their go-to photographer referral.

• Shmooze some tour guides

  Savannah is all about tours—ghost tours, riverboat cruises, you name it. These guides are constantly chatting with visitors who might just want professional pics to remember their trip.

  So, why not swing by and introduce yourself to a few of these guides? (Bonus points if you bring them some coffee or a snack. Everyone loves a friendly bribe, right?) Offer to shoot a couple of photos for them in exchange for a mention on their tours. 

• Get in the tourist facebook groups

  Be sure to join Facebook groups like “Visit Savannah” or “Tybee Island Travelers,” where tourists hang out before their trip, asking for tips on where to eat and what to see.

  Introduce yourself casually and share some of your work! Maybe even a recommended local spot or secret!

  People love a friendly local who doesn’t feel salesy but just genuinely loves showing off their town.

• swing by local coffee shops & boutiques

  A lot of tourists want that authentic Savannah experience, and what’s more authentic than a cozy local coffee shop or charming boutique?

  Get to know the folks behind the counter at your favorite coffee spots or those cute little shops downtown. Leave a few business cards if they’re open to it, or even offer to shoot some photos for them in exchange for a recommendation.

  It’s all about making those local connections, so when tourists come in asking for recommendations, your name pops right up!

So, if you’re looking to get a steady flow of tourists eager to book a photoshoot, start making friends in town! Savannah is ready to show you off—you just have to get in with the right locals.