Connections are truly important to any kind of business. It’s about being seen, being visible, and building relationships that empower you to grow and succeed.
Zoe Hiljemark
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Zoe Hiljemark has distinguished herself in the realm of PR and marketing, specifically tailored for photographers. Her journey is fueled by a deep-seated passion for empowering small businesses and creatives, ensuring they achieve the visibility they deserve.
Having honed her skills over two decades, Zoe’s expertise lies in seamlessly integrating marketing strategies with the unique needs of photographers, helping them navigate the complexities of SEO and publicity with finesse.
Zoe’s approach is rooted in supporting the ‘little guys,’ aiming to amplify their voices in a crowded market. She believes in the power of storytelling and strategic content creation, ensuring that each photographer’s work is not only seen but remembered. Her insights into SEO and the importance of a well-optimized website are crucial for photographers looking to enhance their online presence and attract the right clients.
In this episode, Zoe and I talk about:
- Her pathway into the niche of photography marketing and the serendipitous events that led her there.
- The critical role of SEO and content marketing in helping photographers stand out and succeed.
- Her dedication to fostering connections and building relationships that fuel business growth and success.
My conversation with Zoe offered a perspective on the intersection of marketing and photography. Her commitment to elevating small creatives is inspiring, showcasing that with the right strategies and passion, photographers can thrive in today’s digital landscape.
Enjoy the episode 🙂
Q: What led you to specialize in photography marketing and PR?
Zoe Hiljemark: The opportunity came after I had my first son. I hadn’t considered newborn photography until his birth, but when I searched for a local photographer, I found Karen Wiltshire. Her work stood out, and we formed a friendship. I saw the potential for marketing her talent, and she was thrilled with the results. Word spread quickly, and soon I found myself working predominantly with photographers. It was a niche that found me, really.
Q: How do you approach publicity campaigns for your photographers or clients? Do you work with them closely or do they leave it up to you?
Zoe Hiljemark: It’s definitely a collaborative effort. I need to really get to know my clients to pull out the key stories that would interest the press. While I can work independently once I have the necessary information, I believe in ongoing, sustained PR efforts rather than just campaign-led approaches. It’s about continuously finding features and opportunities for them.
Q: Do you have any advice for photographers on SEO and how they can improve their online presence?
Zoe Hiljemark: Absolutely. First, ensure you have a website because relying solely on social media isn’t enough. Focus on optimizing each page with clear keywords and avoid stuffing keywords across all pages. Plan strategically which pages you want to rank for specific phrases. It’s about building a strong foundation with well-optimized content that can drive organic traffic long-term.
