As a wedding photographer, it often feels like you’re just one tiny speck in a sea of talented, skilled professionals. And if you take a close look at their features–from style to their location, pricing, and accolades–it’s easy to feel like there’s always someone who checks more boxes than you.
But here’s a truth you might not want to hear: What truly sets you apart from the rest isn't your style, awards, or your portfolio—it's you.
Yes, you heard that right. You are the secret ingredient to your success in the wedding photography world. And while many of us like to try to eek out an edge on style or price, I’m going to argue that the heart of your business lies in your personal story and how you use it to connect with your clients.
So, What Does “You” Actually Mean?
You may assume that people hire you because they love your style or because you offer the best price or a combo of those two factors. We all convince ourselves it’s about the external stuff—those factors that seem more tangible and measurable. But, after coaching many dozens of wedding photographers to ace their marketing and earn more money, I’m here to tell you: it’s not pricing. It’s not a preset.
People hire you for your energy and your personal perspective.
Think about it: when clients look at your photos, they want to feel something. They want connection–it’s one of the most basic human needs. And that connection? It comes from you. Your identity, experiences, and worldview shape your unique voice as a photographer, and that’s what potential clients are craving in an over-saturated market.
Why Your Personal Story Matters More Than You Think
Perhaps you’re now wondering… “But how do I make my personal story part of my brand?” or “ But I don’t want to share personal stuff.”
It’s not about revealing every little detail of your life. It’s about understanding how your life experiences, challenges, and growth shape the way you see the world—and how that translates into the way you photograph people.
Addressing the Fears: “Isn’t This Too Personal?”
I know what you’re thinking: “But sharing my personal story might be too much” or “I don’t want to seem unprofessional.” Trust me, I’ve been there too. But here’s the thing—when you show up as your authentic self, you create a deeper, more meaningful connection with your clients. You become relatable. Your personal story becomes your brand, and that’s the difference between being another photographer in a crowded market and being the photographer someone can’t wait to work with.
I can tell you from experience: the bookings will follow. When I started embracing my story and values, I saw a significant shift in my business. More inquiries, higher-quality clients, and, yes, bigger paychecks.
Want to learn more? Read the rest of the blog here to get the first steps to this powerful marketing method. I’ll break it down for you and give you a simple exercise to get you started on the path to marketing your YOU.
Written by Canadian Wedding Photographer Bobbi Barbarich
About the Photographer
Bobbi Barbarich is an internationally recognized, multi-award-winning documentary wedding and family photographer based in British Columbia. With a background that spans from studying Nutrition and Metabolism to discovering her passion for photography through National Geographic magazines, Bobbi brings a unique blend of curiosity, authenticity, and human connection to her work. Her documentary approach embraces the raw, unscripted moments of a wedding day, creating images that feel honest, energetic, and deeply personal. As a photography mentor and business coach, she encourages creatives to embrace their quirks, stay present, and let curiosity guide their storytelling.
