Bonus Episode: The Reviews That Get You Booked: How to Make Google Work for You (Google Reviews w/ Christine Dammann)
Let’s get real: if you’re not actively asking for Google reviews, you’re leaving money on the table. Today on The Raw Edit, we sat down with San Diego-based photographer and SEO queen Christine Damon to break down exactly how to make Google reviews work for you.
Christine isn’t just a family photographer—she’s a visibility powerhouse. In this episode, she walks us through her simple but powerful system for collecting glowing reviews that boost your SEO and help you get found on page one of Google.
Why Google Reviews Matter More Than You Think
Most photographers rely on social media and word of mouth. But here’s the secret sauce: when someone Googles “[your city] photographer,” your reviews can land you in that magical map section and high up on the results page.
Christine didn’t even know about SEO when she started. But once she learned how Google favors businesses with reviews, she went all in. And guess what? She’s now ranking on page one in a saturated San Diego market.
What Makes a Review Actually Helpful?
It’s not just about five stars. Potential clients want details. Christine recommends asking clients to mention specific parts of the experience:
- Were you good with their kids?
- Did you communicate well?
- Did they love the final gallery?
She even provides prompts in her email (grab her freebie below!) so clients aren’t stuck with “She was great.”
Christine’s Review Workflow
No awkward begging. No discounts-for-reviews. Here’s her go-to workflow:
- Deliver the gallery with a beautiful slideshow and music.
- Mail them a surprise print + handwritten thank-you note.
- Send a follow-up email with a link to leave a review and a few gentle prompts.
She keeps it genuine, and it works. Sometimes clients ask how to leave a review before she even brings it up.
Mistakes Photographers Make with Reviews
- Not asking because they’re scared.
- Expecting reviews from everyone (some just won’t).
- Asking when the experience wasn’t great (know when to skip it).
- Using platforms that hide your reviews unless you pay (Christine only asks for reviews on Google for this reason).
- Not guiding your clients on what to write.
How to Use Reviews Beyond Google
Christine repurposes her best reviews everywhere:
- On her website as social proof
- Overlaid on Reels with client images
- In her Dubsado proposals
- Even in texts when clients send sweet messages
Want Glowing Google Reviews? Get Christine’s Freebie
If you’re not sure what to say or how to ask, Christine has a free email template that you can swipe and start using today. It’s called Get Glowing Reviews, and it’s a game-changer.
[Link to download the freebie]
Bonus Tips from Christine
- Add “How did you find me?” to your contact form.
- Ask, “If you found me on Google, what did you search for?”
- Track your SEO growth by searching your keywords in incognito monthly.
One Last Thing…
One of Christine’s non-negotiables? Flexibility. Running her own biz means she gets to show up for her family and build a thriving photography business.
Your non-negotiable? Start turning your reviews into your strongest marketing tool.
Until next time, keep it real (and get those reviews).
🎧 Hit play and let’s get RAW.
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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
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