Episode 16: The Website Mistakes Photographers Keep Making (And How to Fix Them) w/ Octavia Elease
Website Mistakes Photographers Keep Making (And How to Fix Them)
Your website is not just a digital business card. It’s your handshake. Your first impression. And spoiler alert—if it’s giving generic, cookie-cutter vibes? You’re missing out on bookings.
Whether you’ve DIY’ed the heck out of it or hired a designer, there are some website mistakes photographers keep making. And guess what? We’re diving into all of it with Octavia Elease—the genius behind my own site. From SEO to storytelling, she’s breaking it all the way down.
So grab your coffee or your Diet Coke (you know who you are), and let’s talk about how your website can stop being just “okay” and start actually booking dream clients.
Why Your Website Matters More Than You Think
Let’s start with the truth: your website is your storefront. And for photographers? It’s often the only one you’ve got. If it doesn’t feel like you, it’s not going to connect.
This isn’t about slapping up pretty photos. It’s about creating an unforgettable photography experience—from the very first click.
As Octavia says on the Raw Edit podcast, your website should show your heart, your process, and what makes you different. Not just what makes you a “photographer.”
✨ Want more inspiration? [Check out this post on senior photo ideas for travel sessions](➡️ Insert link to: “senior photo ideas” blog once published)
Common Website Mistakes Photographers Keep Making
We’ve all done it. Here are the top website blunders and how to fix them—stat.
1. It Doesn’t Feel Like
You
Stock phrases like “capturing memories” or “love and light” aren’t bad—but they’re everywhere. Your copy should sound like how you actually talk. (Or like you’re chatting with your best friend after a shoot.)
Your dream clients want you—the wild, wonderful, messy-beautiful version. If your website feels too polished or impersonal, it’s time for a rewrite.
2. No Clear Call to Action
This is a big one. Visitors shouldn’t have to hunt for how to contact you. Use buttons that pop, headlines that guide, and clear steps to book. (Hint: “Let’s make this chapter unforgettable” is a whole vibe.)
Want an example that works? Head to my homepage and scroll—fast. You’ll see what I mean.
SEO Isn’t Optional—Here’s Why
You don’t need to be an expert in algorithms, but you do need to understand the basics. Octavia breaks it down like this:
- Use the right keywords (like destination senior photographer and senior photography blog)
- Write in your own voice—but be intentional
- ALT text and filenames matter. Like, a lot.
Search engines want to know what your site’s about. If your images are named “IMG_2045” and your pages don’t mention where you are or what you do? You’re invisible online.
📍 Pro tip: Use phrases like “senior photographer in Williston ND” or “unforgettable photography experience” in your headers and descriptions—without sounding robotic.
How to Make Your Site Stand Out (Without Starting Over)
Feeling overwhelmed? You don’t need a total website overhaul to make real changes. Here’s where to start:
- Add personality to your About page (ditch the 3rd person bio)
- Update your galleries—feature full sessions, not just highlights
- Revise your SEO descriptions so they say what you actually offer
- Get feedback—have someone scroll your site and tell you where they’d click (or not)
Still unsure? Hit up a branding expert like Octavia Elease and let her magic it up.
Real Talk: Your Website Should Work as Hard as You Do
You’ve poured your heart into this business. Your site should reflect that. Not just in the photos—but in the words, the layout, and the energy it gives off.
If your site feels off or outdated, don’t panic. Start small. Make changes that move the needle. Keep showing up. Because your story—and the way you capture others—is worth seeing, sharing, and celebrating.
💥 Ready to level up? Let’s chat about a senior travel session that feels like a full-on adventure. Memories (and magical lighting) are waiting.
Real Talk. No Fluff. Just Photography, Unfiltered.
If you’ve ever found yourself in the middle of an edit at 2 AM, questioning all your life choices—or had a client request just one more tiny edit that turned into a never-ending saga—you’re in the right place.
Hosted by photography besties Kellie Rochelle & Sarah Monson, RAW Edit is where we strip away the sugarcoating and dive into the real behind-the-scenes of running a photography business. From nightmare shoots to lighting disasters and those why-is-this-happening tech moments, we’ve seen it all—and we’re talking about it.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or still figuring out how to pose your first couple, this podcast is your go-to for raw, relatable stories and real-world advice. So grab your camera, your caffeine of choice, and let’s get into it.
🎧 Hit play and let’s get RAW.
Subscribe & download the episode to your device: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music
About Raw Edit
Hosted by Kellie Rochelle and Sarah Monson, two photographers who have been through all the highs and lows, this podcast is your safe space for honest conversations about what it actually takes to thrive in this industry.
Each week, we’re bringing you behind-the-scenes stories, industry insights, and hard-earned lessons—so you can skip the mistakes and fast-track your success!
🌐 Connect with Us:
Kellie Rochelle Photography
- Website: https://kellierochelle.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kellierochellephotography/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kellierochellephotography/
Sarah Monson Photography
- Website: https://smonsonphotography.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahmonsonphotography/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SarahMonsonPhotography
🎧 Subscribe and Listen: If you loved this episode, subscribe to RAW Edit and never miss an unfiltered conversation!
