Getting new clients can feel like an uphill battle—especially when they don’t know you yet. The hardest part of booking isn’t the session itself—it’s getting someone to take that first step.
That’s why I love foot-in-the-door offers (FITDOs). These completely free photo opportunities make it effortless for potential clients to say yes to working with you. No risk, no pressure—just a simple, fun way to introduce them to your work.
And the best part? Once they’ve had a great experience, they’re far more likely to book a full session later.
Here are six free foot-in-the-door offers, one for each major photography niche. Whether you photograph families, newborns, weddings, boudoir, pets, or seniors, there’s an idea here for you.
1. Family Photography – Personality Portrait Pop-Ups
Instead of trying to convince families to book a full session right away, offer free black-and-white personality portraits for kids in a simple studio setup.
Why it works: Parents love timeless, expressive portraits of their kids, and a no-pressure, quick session makes it easy for them to give you a try. Once they see how fun and stress-free it is, they’re much more likely to book a full family session.
How to maximize results:
Keep it simple—ten-minute sessions with minimal props or distractions.
Offer one free watermarked file with an option to purchase more.
Send a follow-up email showcasing your full family session offerings.
2. Newborn Photography – Maternity Meet & Greet
Expecting parents are making countless decisions before their baby arrives, and photography is one of them. Instead of waiting until after the baby is born to connect, offer a free maternity mini session as a way to introduce yourself.
Why it works: Maternity photos get them into your world before they start looking for a newborn photographer. By the time their baby arrives, they already know and trust you.
How to maximize results:
Keep the session short (15 minutes).
Use it as an opportunity to educate them on your newborn session experience.
Offer an exclusive discount or VIP access to newborn session dates.
3. Wedding Photography – Save the Date Sessions
Engaged couples often need a great photo for their save-the-date cards but aren’t ready to commit to a full wedding package yet. Offer a free save-the-date mini session to introduce them to your style and personality.
Why it works: It removes the commitment barrier. Once they’ve had a great experience, you’re top of mind when it comes time to book their wedding.
How to maximize results:
Offer a 15-minute session with one free digital image.
Keep it low-pressure—just a fun, casual way to celebrate their engagement.
Send a follow-up email with a guide to choosing a wedding photographer, positioning yourself as the best choice.
4. Boudoir Photography – Confidence Mini Sessions
Boudoir is deeply personal, and many women hesitate to book because they’re nervous or unsure what to expect. A fully clothed “Confidence Mini” session gives them a taste of the experience without the pressure.
Why it works: It helps potential clients feel comfortable with you and your posing guidance, making a full boudoir session much less intimidating.
How to maximize results:
Offer a ten-minute session with light styling.
Focus on natural beauty and empowerment.
Send a follow-up email with tips on preparing for a boudoir session and an invite to book a full experience.
5. Pet Photography – Donate What You Want for Free Pet Portraits
Pet owners love high-quality photos of their furry friends, and they’ll jump at the chance to participate in a free pet portrait event—especially when it’s for a good cause.
Why it works: Partnering with a local rescue or shelter builds goodwill in the community, introduces pet parents to your work, and encourages donations while you grow your audience.
How to maximize results:
Set up a fun, easy backdrop at a pet-friendly event.
Offer a free digital download with the option to purchase more.
Collect emails via a QR code to send their images and stay in touch for future bookings.
6. Senior Photography – Fair Photo Booth for Friends
Seniors (and their parents) aren’t thinking about professional portraits until they have to. But what if you could get in front of them months before senior season starts?
Set up a free, high-quality photo booth at a local fair or festival, where teens can get fun, professional portraits with their friends.
Why it works: It is fun, low-pressure, and highly shareable. Scanning a QR code to receive their photos gets them on your email list for future senior session marketing.
How to maximize results:
Use good lighting and a clean, stylish setup.
Offer a few posed and candid shots per group.
Send an email afterward introducing your senior portrait packages.
Want More Free FITDO Ideas? Grab the Full List!
Each of these free photo sessions is designed to build trust, create connections, and naturally lead to full bookings. But why stop here?
I've put together a free guide with 30 foot-in-the-door offers, covering:
Five ideas for each major photography niche
Step-by-step tips to make them work
Follow-up strategies to turn free sessions into real bookings
By offering zero-risk, high-value experiences, you make it effortless for new clients to say yes—and once they do, the chances of them booking a full session skyrocket.
Which of these FITDOs are you most excited to try? Let me know in the comments.
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