What Happened to Wedding Photography Inquiries?

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  • čas přidán 1. 06. 2024
  • With a possible looming recession and inflation hurting couples' wallets, plus the engagement gap and dating slowing down, what happened to wedding photography inquiries? I recently realized that I only have two weddings booked for 2024, and I haven't received any new inquiries or bookings recently. Let's talk about how to book more weddings and how I'm combating this current wedding economy.
    Here's my local online page I mentioned: heartofncweddings.com/directo...
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  • Jak na to + styl

Komentáře • 457

  • @jbivphotography
    @jbivphotography  Před 4 měsíci +16

    How are wedding bookings going for you?

    • @MarchonC
      @MarchonC Před 4 měsíci +3

      Very slow. Just 3 on the book this year. With 1 for next year..

    • @Nathaniel_Anderson
      @Nathaniel_Anderson Před 4 měsíci +5

      We've got 33 for this year and 14 for next year so far

    • @showshow8804
      @showshow8804 Před 4 měsíci +7

      Still recovering from 2023 burnout. Kinda wanna stop doing weddings and trying to focus on having fun for 2024.

    • @neildeakin4454
      @neildeakin4454 Před 4 měsíci +2

      @@Nathaniel_Anderson What area?

    • @psoet.photo1112
      @psoet.photo1112 Před 4 měsíci +3

      I stopped doing weddings because I saw the declines last year. Now this year it’s not looking any better. Americans are just struggling to pay for our high prices.. lol

  • @miakkomm
    @miakkomm Před 4 měsíci +109

    As a photographer myself it’s so refreshing to see another photographer being real transparent about the industry ✨

    • @jbivphotography
      @jbivphotography  Před 4 měsíci +15

      There’s not a lot of transparency in the industry and I kind of hate that. I’m going to do my best to always be open with everyone so they know where I am, where my struggles are, and how business is going. There’s too many photography influencers out here and not enough business owners.

    • @afterdarc
      @afterdarc Před 4 měsíci +3

      @@jbivphotography social media is full of liars. They will say they are doing good so you can sign up for their "classes" to make $200k a year doing photography lol

  • @TimFilmsCars
    @TimFilmsCars Před 4 měsíci +30

    The transparency here is SUPER refreshing. I'm not necessarily seeking any wedding work right now, but there's takeaways here for everyone. Quality content as always.

    • @BryanLopezProductions
      @BryanLopezProductions Před 4 měsíci

      The main issue is hes in the top side of being a photog and having the CZcams income helps him not only cover expenses but still invest in SEO/Website, local publications. Where 99% of other photographers would probably pass up on doing that because of zero events. Even having another income like a 9-5 job. I couldn't see them throwing money at a stalled business.

  • @DynastyUK
    @DynastyUK Před 4 měsíci +24

    In all seriousness, I've only booked some for this year purely because of big discounts. BUT you shouldn't just lower your prices, you should show their true value and have a real good reason for the discount, either make it personal or as a reward to loyal followers etc. I booked most of mine by celebrating my 6th year shooting weddings as a reward for everyone to help celebrate.
    ALSO KEEP IN CONTACT WITH PREVIOUS CLIENTS, Ask them if they want an album now, or if they know anyone getting married because you have a massive one off sale. Reward the old clients.

    • @CalvinGrayCat
      @CalvinGrayCat Před 4 měsíci

      50% if they get divorced and book you for the second wedding

    • @clarkjamesdigital
      @clarkjamesdigital Před 4 měsíci +1

      @@CalvinGrayCatsneakily engineer the divorce and make your own repeat customers

  • @edwink0
    @edwink0 Před 4 měsíci +16

    Brother, North Carolinian here also with 5 kids so I hear and feel your pain. We are in the videography business where it's easier to differentiate yourself. I always wonder how difficult it must be for photographers to differentiate. Also, market saturation is a factor, there are so many options now. Everyone and their cousin is in photo/video. Anyone with a camera and bag of lenses. It is tough. Keep doing your thing. You seem like a savvy and sophisticated professional. Don't compromise on your pricing, continue offering the best possible experience for your clients. You will come out on top. Don't be a slave to the algorithms either, you can get lost in that rabbit hole of social media and SEO.

  • @thomaslarsen5057
    @thomaslarsen5057 Před 4 měsíci +6

    Here in Denmark the expectations are going thru the roof but the "budget" is lower than the cake budget...

    • @jbivphotography
      @jbivphotography  Před 4 měsíci +1

      Oh my goodness. I think that might be the case in a lot of places. There will always be people getting married. It’s more so what they’re trying to pay that’s in question.

    • @jonallen4100
      @jonallen4100 Před 4 měsíci

      Can you expand on expectation are going through the roof.. Please:-) Thank you

  • @NileSWPhotography
    @NileSWPhotography Před 4 měsíci +10

    You know what I realised bro? January is just always a really bad time for me photography wise and I think it’s the same around the industry. You’ll be fine man. You’re still one of the greatest wedding photographers out there. It can be tough when the slow spells come, believe me, I know. Jan-March 2023 must’ve been the slowest months for me since I started in 2016 but just trust in the process man.
    Hope you’re doing good

    • @bboyswoosh87
      @bboyswoosh87 Před 4 měsíci

      Yeah this month, February, and March is the worst months for me. This is really true, the bookings stop around November/December.

    • @NileSWPhotography
      @NileSWPhotography Před 4 měsíci +1

      @@bboyswoosh87 yeah I’ve learnt to always save a bit for those months because the bookings are more or less non existent until about mid Feb/March for me too.
      It’s also nice to know it’s a universal thing to an extent 😅

  • @marios739
    @marios739 Před 4 měsíci +1

    thank you very much for sharing this! helps a lot really

  • @emanuellsmith1944
    @emanuellsmith1944 Před 3 měsíci

    Thanks for sharing sir.
    I love the transparency and your hopeful ending.

  • @Ram.Saketh
    @Ram.Saketh Před 4 měsíci +12

    Thanks for sharing your knowledge/wisdom on wedding photography as well as gear reviews.

    • @jbivphotography
      @jbivphotography  Před 4 měsíci

      Thank you so much for the Super Thanks and watching. I hope this was helpful!

  • @cynthiachungNYC
    @cynthiachungNYC Před 2 měsíci

    This is SO SPOT ON. Thanks for making this video John!!!

  • @marvinbluephotographyandfilm
    @marvinbluephotographyandfilm Před 4 měsíci +1

    Thank you for your transparency

  • @kaylalawson1469
    @kaylalawson1469 Před 4 měsíci

    Appreciate your transparency! So true! We’re a family of 6 and it’s so challenging! continue to be you and grind! ✨

  • @mrsebanks
    @mrsebanks Před 3 měsíci

    Thank you for being so honest!!

  • @rickbiessman6084
    @rickbiessman6084 Před 4 měsíci +1

    Thanks SO much John for the transparency and humility. I’m only starting out trying to get into the industry, so I haven’t felt the effects of the engagement gap, but your attitude towards the business side of things is definitely something I’m taking note of. Hope things get easier for you!

  • @diegoteran3812
    @diegoteran3812 Před 4 měsíci +4

    Hey! I live in Wake Forest! :) I have been following other wedding photographers and honestly, you're the best one... by far... I love your work and your videos and things will pick up

  • @dinovolpefotografo181
    @dinovolpefotografo181 Před 4 měsíci

    Thank you for sharing your difficulties with us all, so we feel less alone. I live in Italy and exactly in Campania, the drop in bookings is also felt by me who have always worked so hard, I thank you for sharing what you do in the future and I always follow you with great interest.

  • @ryanthompson4846
    @ryanthompson4846 Před 4 měsíci

    This video is excellent. Thanks for your transparency.

  • @throughjuanseyes
    @throughjuanseyes Před 4 měsíci

    John, this is a very genuine video. I can imagine it being difficult to be this vulnerable. I stop watching certain CZcams photographers because they get big and end up just being CZcamsrs that I feel they get out of touch with the “little guy” aka us, the audience. So thank you. This video has me eager to watch more of your videos.

  • @hollyhockphotography9496
    @hollyhockphotography9496 Před 4 měsíci +3

    Thankyou so much for putting yourself out there with this video. Its so nice to see someone so honest showing true, raw content. I & many other photographers I know feel so relieved so know we arnt the only ones experiencing this. thankyou so much!

  • @JuanLeonel
    @JuanLeonel Před 4 měsíci +2

    WOW! I needed this! I though it was just me but is happening almost exactly here in my hometown in Chile. Thanks for been this transparent, honest and clear to talk about this. Felt like talking to a friend about it. I'm doing my work as you said, and I will add a few that you mention but thanks to share this, I almost even felt a bit ashamed of not been booked as much as I did last year, so thank you again!

  • @deciusfilms3651
    @deciusfilms3651 Před 4 měsíci +1

    Thank you for sharing this great and transparent video! I'm in a similar situation as you, 5 kids and my wife homeschools. We're here in South Florida and the prices have shot through the roof, everyone was moving here cause of covid and the price of living went up. Last year was my first decline in bookings, this year so far is low as well but im grateful i can film and photograph just about everything which keeps inquires and bookings coming, even if its not from weddings

  • @lucinadubai1772
    @lucinadubai1772 Před 4 měsíci +2

    You're a top guy John, I'm sure things will pick up soon for you!

  • @garywright200
    @garywright200 Před 4 měsíci

    Hey John, appreciate this content. Just did my first wedding in September, was watching your POV wedding day videos to get ready. Also, let’s see those receipts lol.

  • @ddawg3230
    @ddawg3230 Před 4 měsíci

    I just started watching, and feel a great deal of love and regard for you for sharing what many don't share.

    • @jbivphotography
      @jbivphotography  Před 4 měsíci +1

      I appreciate that! try my best to be open and honest especially as a creator. It's easy for things to look great on my end with so many eyes on my work. But I like everyone to know I'm in the thick of it as well.

    • @ddawg3230
      @ddawg3230 Před 4 měsíci

      @@jbivphotography Yes, 2023 has been quite stressful, and it definitely feels less alone to know that others are also facing this (which hopefully also means that more people are thinking of new ideas and ways to resolve it, and that there is a chance of making it out of it together).

  • @j.scholberg8579
    @j.scholberg8579 Před 4 měsíci +4

    John, I appreciate your honesty so much. Homeschooling mom of 4 here…I just moved to new market and trying to jump in and figure out pricing here. I really just appreciate you sharing these kinds of obstacles and helping me to remember I can always make adjustments if I don’t nail it all right out the gate as I restart my business here. Thanks, John!

  • @JuanRojas956
    @JuanRojas956 Před 4 měsíci +3

    We all appreciate how honest you are with us. People like to praise about their business saying they are doing really well and have a fully booked schedule but the reality is you don't know what's going on behind closed doors. You brought up some interesting points I hadn't thought about. This is why you're my favourite wedding photographer.

  • @HeartandRootPhoto
    @HeartandRootPhoto Před 4 měsíci

    love your channel, your personality, and your transparency!

    • @jbivphotography
      @jbivphotography  Před 4 měsíci

      Thank you so much!! I try my best to always be transparent.

  • @loismacomber6318
    @loismacomber6318 Před 4 měsíci

    Amazing info, I have learned a lot from your videos. Thank you for being transparent! The beginning of your video is what I just went through, thinking of all the possible combos and reasons. Lately things have been better, so it just means finding what works in the current market while not compromising your worth.

  • @cjackshaw
    @cjackshaw Před 4 měsíci

    John's a real one. Another great video, we'll need an update later this year for sure!

  • @kellerphotography5028
    @kellerphotography5028 Před 4 měsíci

    loved this video ! thank you for your honesty :)

    • @jbivphotography
      @jbivphotography  Před 4 měsíci

      Of course!! I try my best to show other photographers I'm a real photographer and person not just an influencer out here doing anything for clicks.

  • @herbertabeck
    @herbertabeck Před 4 měsíci

    Thank you for this. Thank you for what you do! I know it will turn around for you also. You're good at all of this!

    • @jbivphotography
      @jbivphotography  Před 4 měsíci

      Thanks a bunch. I'm sure things are going to get better. Just gotta keep running the business and providing value.

  • @MonteWeaverofficial
    @MonteWeaverofficial Před 4 měsíci +10

    Thanks for your transparency! - I believe you're going to have more bookings coming soon! I speak it

    • @jbivphotography
      @jbivphotography  Před 4 měsíci

      Thank you for that! 🙏 I agree with you. I'm not worried at all about my bookings. It's very interesting to see how things are going with weddings currently.

  • @fuseboxOpera
    @fuseboxOpera Před 4 měsíci

    Good luck brother! Appreciate your candor

  • @cindyswindell2615
    @cindyswindell2615 Před 4 měsíci +2

    Really appreciate your transparency!

    • @jbivphotography
      @jbivphotography  Před 4 měsíci

      I’m glad to hear that. The main reason I wanted to make this video is to remind everyone that it’s not always as good as it seems especially for us “content creators”. And also to assure everyone in whatever they’re currently going through.

  • @heartfeltstudio6119
    @heartfeltstudio6119 Před 4 měsíci

    very big of you to share that. I've been telling my peers about the lack of people dating and developing relations that lead to tying knots. in a way it's nice to know someone that has big influence are also experiencing low booking rate.

  • @RileFire
    @RileFire Před 3 měsíci

    Love this, and yes advertising agree! . Even the biggest brands advertise, or draw people in with some discounts or maybe even a free session. The key is understanding who you’re talking to through your ad copy, and framing yourself to be the authority (in your niche)
    understanding pain points of your couple and what you do differently, all aids in attracting people to your brand, the key being communicating that online.
    In 2024 we gotta be more than just photographers, we have to learn to market and understand our process deeply from initial acquisition, to how we nurture them, down to closing.
    You’re taking all the right steps! Love your channel

  • @marienj.malloy2582
    @marienj.malloy2582 Před 4 měsíci

    Thanks for being so honest I love this, and I need it too…thank u, sending you the best vibes so you can book a lottttt of weddings this year…

    • @jbivphotography
      @jbivphotography  Před 4 měsíci +1

      Thank you so much! I really hope my honesty helps others not feel so bad about their situation. It's rough out here for all of us but we're going to get through it.

    • @marienj.malloy2582
      @marienj.malloy2582 Před 4 měsíci

      @@jbivphotography hey!! Can I ask you something?? Have you ever had someone (bride) saying I will pay you in full (not split payments) your wedding package but take out the taxes!! I had that situation today…I say no! But I never had that situation happening in thinking…it’s that possible?

  • @AdrienneCatanesePhoto
    @AdrienneCatanesePhoto Před 3 měsíci

    Thank you so much John for sharing this: we are all feeling this too (I only have a few for 2024 also); you are so generous and kind in sharing your struggle this year--we are all in this together :)

  • @claudiavicenciophotography344

    Same thing here , very complicated time ! I encourage all photographers who do our work with passion and honesty.

  • @kristenkatexo9700
    @kristenkatexo9700 Před 4 měsíci +1

    Thank you so much for making this video! This year has been a STRUGGLE even in the UK. I used to be at the top end of average, leaning into luxury pricing wise and had absolutely no problem getting bookings. Since this summer have had absolutely zero... UNTIL last week I bit the bullet and lowered my pricing to what I felt was still reflective of my time but in a more affordable bracket and honestly inquires have gone through the roof! Something to think about for sure, sending lots of love to you and your family this year 🤞🏼📸

  • @votivestudios
    @votivestudios Před 4 měsíci

    Right there with you. Appreciate the transparency 🫶

  • @nicolelav9007
    @nicolelav9007 Před 3 měsíci

    Thank you for this very real, honest video!!! I’m going into my second year doing 8 this year but also work full time still. It’s tough but i’m going to make sure my work is the highest quality I can give instead of getting as many weddings booked as possible. Thank you again!!

  • @MackJulion
    @MackJulion Před 4 měsíci +1

    I have to comment AGAIN. I so appreciate you being real about this. You got it bro.

  • @macksimumphotos
    @macksimumphotos Před 4 měsíci

    Thanks for being real about this. Much appreciated. Industry is definitely slow this year.

  • @MackJulion
    @MackJulion Před 4 měsíci

    Love and appreciate the transparency here. It's the same with me in Chicago. VERY slow and I solely believe it has a lot to do with the economy. As you said, weddings are a luxury service and I believe that most people are cutting back on their wedding budget. In 2020, smaller/courthouse weddings grew in numbers and I think that swayed a lot of couples. Ultimately, we have to work harder and I believe you're certainly on the path. Hopefully we can get pass this sooner than later. Much love bro.

  • @supes12
    @supes12 Před 4 měsíci

    Great video mate thanks

  • @nicolle_aponte
    @nicolle_aponte Před 4 měsíci +1

    My goodness! Hands down to your humbleness and transparency about this business. Thank you for all of this!!

    • @jbivphotography
      @jbivphotography  Před 4 měsíci +1

      Thank you so much. I really try my best to make sure people don't just think "influencers" are out here having a part and also that I'm not a real wedding photographer.

    • @nicolle_aponte
      @nicolle_aponte Před 4 měsíci

      Honestly, that is the kind of transparency that I
      Would love to hear more often. I’ve been doing wedding photography for three years and every season I’ve seen different fluctuations of inquiries. I have always hoped to have this as the main source of income but I haven’t managed that yet. Blessings to you, your wife and your kiddos. I respect the amount of work, patience, and commitment you both have with the business and raising your children.

  • @martharetallick204
    @martharetallick204 Před 4 měsíci +1

    I signed up for your flash course. Looking forward to it!

    • @jbivphotography
      @jbivphotography  Před 4 měsíci +1

      Sounds great! Thank you for trusting me with the pre-orders. Can't wait to get it out to everyone.

  • @ashleybrenda___
    @ashleybrenda___ Před 4 měsíci

    Love your transparency, it's hard for a lot of people out there but let's continue on working and investing on ourselves!

  • @davidbigephotography
    @davidbigephotography Před 4 měsíci

    Your honesty is appreciated. It's slow here in the UK too, and seemingly couples are more after the budget togs.

  • @xspideysamx
    @xspideysamx Před 4 měsíci

    THANK YOU for being REAL! i am so sick and tired of seeing popular CZcams/educator wedding photographers fake bragging about how they are doing AMAZING and how the only way we can succeed is if we buy in their courses. FOR ONCE! I see someone be real and honest. THANK YOU! for the most part we are all struggling this year and we are all in this together.

  • @JeffCarnie
    @JeffCarnie Před 4 měsíci

    Well said! Thanks for sharing..

  • @vojkan_milenkovik
    @vojkan_milenkovik Před 4 měsíci +1

    Respect and admiration for your honesty in this video. Very refreshing to see the other side of the wedding photography business.

    • @jbivphotography
      @jbivphotography  Před 4 měsíci +1

      I'm glad you enjoyed it. I hope it was helpful.

  • @animummediagroup4425
    @animummediagroup4425 Před 4 měsíci +1

    We appreciate you John!

    • @jbivphotography
      @jbivphotography  Před 4 měsíci

      I’m glad to hear that. I hope this was helpful.

  • @valdemarcaballero5298
    @valdemarcaballero5298 Před 4 měsíci

    What a GREAT VIDEO!!! thank you very much for sharing!!!! Yes yes, i for one want to see receipts because it is very interesting for me at least, to know that you are not booking but still paying X amount of money on advertising!!!! THANKS FOR SHARING!!!! GOD bless you and your family!!!! 🙏🙏

  • @IsaiahMcAllisterImagery
    @IsaiahMcAllisterImagery Před 4 měsíci +4

    I think as photographers we all need to learn to adapt better. Last year I started shooting video as a way to increase bookings. 50% of my weddings last year were video. This year I am thinking of adding a social media add on to my packages. I can bring my Osmo 3 and take a few short clips of the B & G with my Osmo and create a few social media reels for them rather than lose out to a social media content creator (yes... that's becoming a thing for weddings now). If someone wants a 6 hour package, but you only offer 8 and 10, are you going to negotiate a 6 or just refuse altogether? When times get tough, adaptability is necessary.

    • @jonallen4100
      @jonallen4100 Před 4 měsíci

      Totally agree with packages with the aftermath of Covid, my enquires for intimate coverage has gone through the roof. So I have changed my booking model to cater for 3 & 5 hour gigs. Also I find myself not being interested in 10 hours anymore. I love coming home earlier and enjoying a little more private time. I have also stared to offer small wedding albums in packages to increase the value without discounting

  • @BoraBora_Sasha
    @BoraBora_Sasha Před 3 měsíci

    I'm sorry to hear about the challenges you're facing. I can relate to your experience, as I work as a wedding and honeymoon photographer in Bora Bora, mostly for American clients. It's clear that for many younger couples today, the cost is becoming a bigger concern than quality. This seems to be a trend where everyone is trying to save money in any way they can. It's a big change from how things were before COVID, and it's affecting all of us in different ways. Things will surely change over time, and we just need to keep adapting and doing our best. Stay strong!

  • @CramerGallimore
    @CramerGallimore Před 4 měsíci

    I'm not in the wedding industry, but I've been following you since the beginning. Stunned to hear this. One of the suggestions above make sense...maybe figure some added value for your packages that doesn't cost a lot in your money and time.

  • @PointShiftDrive
    @PointShiftDrive Před 4 měsíci

    Thanks John. I appreciate this video... and feel the same.

    • @jbivphotography
      @jbivphotography  Před 4 měsíci

      Glad to hear it. I hope it’s resonating with photographers.

  • @benjamin.kelley
    @benjamin.kelley Před 4 měsíci +2

    Irs everywhere in the industry! For wedding filmmakers its even worse - i talked with a ton of wedding filmmakers last week at the How to Film Weddings retreat, and even people from CA are suffering. Im focusing on building relationships with other vendors, especially planners, because in places like Ohio couples don't want to pay over $2500 for a wedding film, and to do what I do well I need at least $4-5k per wedding. The other thing I'm doing is focusing heavily on Instagram reels by showing off my work and consistently posting I'm trying to increase brand awareness.

  • @simonhariman352
    @simonhariman352 Před 4 měsíci

    I love your transparency and your optimism! Thank you for sharing. My wife is a wedding photographer in Germany, she just raised her prices for 2024 and I am not sure if the price raise was a good move. On the other hand, everything, like groceries, is getting more expensive. Difficult to say what is right or wrong, so many individual factor’s.
    We will invest in ads and SEO.

  • @jonabc24
    @jonabc24 Před 4 měsíci

    Thank you so much for being honest about this. I thought I was the only one feeling this.

    • @jbivphotography
      @jbivphotography  Před 4 měsíci

      Nope it’s everyone at this point. I really wanted to make sure that everyone understands that it really is effecting everyone. Even us “influencers”

  • @ievamarija5386
    @ievamarija5386 Před 4 měsíci

    I would absolutely love to see the receipts! This year I got really serious with my SEO for the first time ever and I find that getting the backlinks is the tricky bit so I decided to pay for a couple reputable directory listings really only to boost my SEO - but still kind of feel bad doing it because I don't believe the listings themselves will get me the enquiries. I love your transparency and would love to see what you're spending on this stuff to maybe feel better about my own spending :)

  • @AndrewCockerillPhotography
    @AndrewCockerillPhotography Před 4 měsíci +1

    Asking from the UK too.
    Only 1 on the books this year and no inquiries coming in!

  • @steveparker9142
    @steveparker9142 Před 4 měsíci

    Hey John, thank you for speaking the Truth about this industry!

  • @alexanderchua
    @alexanderchua Před 4 měsíci

    I also have 2 booked wedding videography this year. Its scary but Im keeping my hopes up.

  • @kellywilliams6403
    @kellywilliams6403 Před 3 měsíci

    Seriously, thank you for putting this video out there. I thought it was just me...

  • @phaedragardeness
    @phaedragardeness Před 4 měsíci +1

    It's the same in other industries, Im a florist (with a flower farm) and flower demand has gone down since the pandemic too. As for the recession... we are already in one. They don't announce a recession until we come out of it!

  • @jakphoto
    @jakphoto Před 4 měsíci

    I love this frank honesty, John. Something I feel is disturbingly lacking in the wedding industry with how Instragram posts pull a veil over how people are really doing. Refreshing and informative, as always!

  • @aleksjakobsons
    @aleksjakobsons Před 4 měsíci +2

    My respect John, doing what you are doing with a family of 5 kids must be quite tough. Very inspirational! Good luck this year!

    • @jbivphotography
      @jbivphotography  Před 4 měsíci +1

      Thank you so much. It's fun. Lots of work, but fun.

    • @aleksjakobsons
      @aleksjakobsons Před 4 měsíci

      I can only imagine that. I am myself an expat who lives abroad and is having a full-time job, family with 1 kid so far and a photography side-hustle on side. John, it would be nice to learn on how you manage everything, maybe a potential idea for a future youtube video?

  • @RamosAPhotography
    @RamosAPhotography Před 4 měsíci

    Thanks for sharing John. Sending you Good Vibes and Great Energy 🙏🏻 hoping you get some weddings in soon. I would considering Marketing a little more. 🤷🏻‍♀️

    • @jbivphotography
      @jbivphotography  Před 4 měsíci

      Thank you so much. Putting more dollars into marketing is a big part of my plan for this year.

  • @LZnathalie
    @LZnathalie Před 4 měsíci

    Hi!
    new follower here!
    another few trends I’ve noticed that are awful all around for our photo/ video industry
    -people are asking friends to take their photos, people are asking one single documentarian to either document as little or as much as they can on a tight budget.
    -Ive seen a rise in film photogs to shoot weddings for a teeny tiny amount of time.
    I’ve seen people just toss the photo or video or budget into honeymoons instead…
    nowdays
    the big reality is people are noticing that a recession is coming and big lay offs are happening, with that many are seeing that they need to prioritize survival over memories n unfortunately thats one of the things many of us live on :(

  • @angelocayananphotography
    @angelocayananphotography Před 4 měsíci

    pulling the curtains and revealing the true nature of any discipline of photography. another great video!

    • @jbivphotography
      @jbivphotography  Před 4 měsíci +1

      Glad you enjoyed the video. I really want to make sure people understand they're not the only ones dealing with this.

  • @alexhall9450
    @alexhall9450 Před 4 měsíci +1

    Hey John. Wedding photographer here from Australia. We are finding it’s simply down to price and value for money. Everything is 30 percent more expensive and people can’t afford expensive wedding photography

  • @KKraemerPhoto
    @KKraemerPhoto Před 4 měsíci

    Thanks for covering this John. About 3-4 months ago I saw this slump coming with nothing booked for 2024 yet and no inquiries coming in. I had to shut it down and go back to a full time job.

    • @jbivphotography
      @jbivphotography  Před 4 měsíci

      Oh wow. I’m sorry to hear that. I hope it was a choice you didn’t feel too bad about.

  • @dsdddsd4543we
    @dsdddsd4543we Před 4 měsíci

    John, what fantastic timing on this video. I just looked at my company's numbers minutes ago. I am in a similar situation where I look after my sister and mother. I could imagine a family of seven. January is supposed to be a massive month of bookings, but it was slow.
    We currently have 13 weddings booked for the year. I believe it is solely economic and layoff related. The Fed raised interest rates to slow down the economy, and we are now seeing the effects of it in the wedding industry. Couples are choosing to spend less on discretionary items and are now focused on just putting food on the table and keeping the lights on. I can't blame them.
    We have more competition than ever, so couples have even more choices, which affects pricing power.

  • @vivaphotographywirral6779
    @vivaphotographywirral6779 Před 4 měsíci

    Hi John, It's nice to hear that I am not alone. Here in the UK, 2023 was slow, but 2024 is even slower and like you, I have taken 0 new bookings this year, with only a couple already booked. People are definitely struggling with the cost of heating their homes and with the cost of food, etc. Mortgage interest rates increasing, etc. I've tried advertising in local magazines, but to be honest, they have generally not brought in any significant amounts of business. I hope that it works better for you. It seems that people are booking the lower priced photographers, and to be honest, I am not at the expensive end of the market, but I am still not getting the level of business that I'd like.

  • @Derrick8137
    @Derrick8137 Před 4 měsíci

    I'm located in Raleigh as well...2024 looks like it's going to be a slow year for me as well. Great video!!

    • @jbivphotography
      @jbivphotography  Před 4 měsíci

      Thanks for watching. Yeah Raleigh still has a market but things are changing and slowing down a bit. I'm sure we'll get through this however.

  • @darrellcassell
    @darrellcassell Před 4 měsíci +2

    Wild man. It’s gotta be location based from what I’m seeing. We’ve chatted before, but Ashevilles wedding market is still very strong. I’m currently at 29 weddings with a few for 2025 booked as well.
    My friends in FL and CA aren’t seeing a drop either.
    A lot of it does sound like it could be SEO for you though. Are you running Google ads to help while that gets sorted out?

  • @A1000Truths
    @A1000Truths Před 4 měsíci

    S/O for keeping it honest. A lot of folks forget it’s a business at the end of the day. Everyone needs to adjust.

  • @vincebaldwin2829
    @vincebaldwin2829 Před 4 měsíci

    I’m in Charlotte NC. I’m such a big fan of yours

  • @mrjohnryan
    @mrjohnryan Před 4 měsíci

    I'm with you in the Raleigh area!
    Not exactly the most encouraging video, as I'm trying to reboot my photography and videography business, but the world needs transparency like this!
    Thanks John!

  • @sheilapogue7183
    @sheilapogue7183 Před 4 měsíci

    You're so smart to double down on advertising right now and it sounds like you were really thoughtful about where and how, excellent content as usual. I hope you see some lift!

    • @jbivphotography
      @jbivphotography  Před 4 měsíci

      I'm hoping it makes sense. If anything it should lead to a bigger boom once things start picking up. Thanks again for the well wishes and I hope you enjoyed the video.

  • @SimonAckerman
    @SimonAckerman Před 4 měsíci +1

    I hope things pick up for you man. I think 2020 also has changed the industry in a way that lot's of people during lockdown were re-skilling, I know in my part of the world (the South coast of England, UK) there are way more photographers since the pandemic. Most of these new wedding photographers have probably not flourished until now as it's a long game as you know. Everyone has a different skillset and pricing structure so maybe it's not going to change anything.

  • @whatsupfoo4592
    @whatsupfoo4592 Před 4 měsíci

    bro. I had to give it up but luckily my brother got me into a family business. And we’re doing okay. Not as much stress bc I know I get an income every week.
    But one day, hopefully I’ll get back into it. Best of luck to you John 🙏🏽

  • @aidandemolli
    @aidandemolli Před 4 měsíci +2

    I think signing up for just the Knot (not wedding wire because it’s a little cheaper and all the views come from the knot) is definitely a resource. It’s still where 75% or more brides are going for a majority of their vendors as well as creating their wedding website. I’m in the 2700-3500 range for 8 hours of coverage. Did 32 weddings last year and have 23 booked so far for this year. I put my knot on hold as I’m getting too many repeat date requests. Might go back later in December but am looking to explore and test some advertising in exchange for the knot cost. Definitely more volume of weddings at a lower price point. I think couples are more and more looking for places to lower cost. I’m seeing a lot more couple funded weddings and these couples are strapped. Having payment plans over the year, lower deposits to lock in dates, emphasis on building your google my business reviews and sharing images and exchanging reviews with other wedding vendors has been huge for me. Good luck John. This industry stays a mostly rewarding rollercoaster but damn is not fun sometimes 😂

  • @mattgunst
    @mattgunst Před 4 měsíci

    That’s a really honest video and that’s actually what CZcams needs, real person in real life and not only people that shows you the perfection of everything! Thanks for that and look, you are great, everything will be better soon 😎
    Another thing to consider in my opinion (I’m an italian destination wedding photographer) is that weddings in America have become too expensive and people prefer to come and get married here with the same budget or less. Italy, Spain and Greece are blown away with weddings by overseas people every year. That might also effect American locals

  • @darmaher4481
    @darmaher4481 Před 4 měsíci

    This is something I do, I’m not saying it works but something I’m doing works for me. I price myself in that I’m busy but within range of the rate around me and price a small bit higher, I connect with hotels and the wedding coordinators so when couples book the venue I am one of the recommended vendors. Some I now see as good friends. In wedding days I have fun and just enjoy the day. I pose what’s needed and the rest is candid moments that they love. Once you build up enough weddings I find work comes back due to couples recommending me. If they are not mentioning your name then maybe your having a negative impact that others then hear about and decide to look elsewhere. Maybe it’s the feeling that your leaning more towards your video content for CZcams than there wedding so maybe they need to feel that the wedding is the most important. These are just things that I’d be thinking and wondering in your position. Not sure if any of this helps but I love your content. Your pictures are top class so it’s definitely not your work.

  • @LisaMaeFilms
    @LisaMaeFilms Před 4 měsíci

    This is great info, thank you!! I'm curious if you also incentivize clients with referral bonuses? I'm considering doing this.

  • @workingman545
    @workingman545 Před 4 měsíci +1

    Greenville, NC here. Im not a wedding photographer, but I i like your content. Im probably gonna drop honeybook this year. I'm just not booking enough to make it worthwhile right now. Hope things turn around for you.

    • @jbivphotography
      @jbivphotography  Před 4 měsíci +1

      Totally makes sense. Gotta keep the business lean as things slow down. Thanks for watching.

  • @deweesegilyard2998
    @deweesegilyard2998 Před 4 měsíci +1

    I hear you from Raleigh, too.

  • @wasimmansor3987
    @wasimmansor3987 Před 4 měsíci +1

    I live in Malaysia, majority is Muslim, We as a muslim most of us married at the age of 20-30. Here photographer price is super competitive. I keep my price low to get quantity, I manage to secure 70 wedding in 2024, 200+ weddings in 2023. here in Malaysia price range around $200 for 4 hours sessions.

  • @MartinV.
    @MartinV. Před 4 měsíci

    good luck out there to all the wedding vendors!!

    • @jbivphotography
      @jbivphotography  Před 4 měsíci

      YES! We're going to have an amazing year. Just gotta keep our heads up.

  • @badhabit714
    @badhabit714 Před 4 měsíci +1

    Thanks!

    • @jbivphotography
      @jbivphotography  Před 4 měsíci

      THANK YOU SO MUCH! I really appreciate that super thanks. I hope you enjoyed the video.

  • @michael.asmussen
    @michael.asmussen Před 4 měsíci

    Same here John B. Love the video so far only 1 booking 🤦‍♂️

    • @jbivphotography
      @jbivphotography  Před 4 měsíci +1

      I hope things start picking up for you. Keep your head up. We're going to get through this!

  • @ZacharyWillFilms
    @ZacharyWillFilms Před 4 měsíci

    I'm having some of the same issues this year. At about 1/3 booked this year, which isn't bad but haven't booked anything new since about October of last year. Some of my thoughts are that booking season is changing and January isn't as big as it used to be.

  • @ReelBlessed
    @ReelBlessed Před 4 měsíci

    Fellow Raleigh creative here. I also had an insane 2021/2022 but 2023 was a little tough. Oddly did a lot of real estate projects though I’m not really in that market but only a handful of weddings and all those were as a second shooter. If you look back, I think the 2021/2022 years was when everyone was flushed with extra cash, housing was booming, jobs were booming, and folks were spending a lot more loosely. As you stated, things are slowing down and people are being a bit more cautious with money. It’s a natural cycle for all businesses and the ones that adapt will be the ones that survive.
    We also homeschool as well so I know that struggle 😅. Thanks for opening the doors to honest conversations

  • @CallejasMichael
    @CallejasMichael Před 4 měsíci +1

    Hell yeah brother I really appreciate you. You really give a sense of community. We’re in this together. We will be okay. As long as we keep the mission in mind things will be fine.

    • @jbivphotography
      @jbivphotography  Před 4 měsíci +1

      Always! I really hope that I'm seen as more than just "an influencer". I still take weddings and I'm still struggling sometimes to wonder why I'm not booking. We're in this together and we're all going to get through it.

    • @CallejasMichael
      @CallejasMichael Před 4 měsíci

      @@jbivphotography trust me bro when I started my journey, I was consuming your content so much. Because from my perspective, you are actually doing it and you have shown that in your content. Plus I liked ur editing style and you seem chill and REAL. A lot of how my business is set up it thanks to your recommendations

  • @unbornharbor
    @unbornharbor Před 2 měsíci

    Damn same, I just booked my 3rd wedding for this year...times are tough!