** Some of the links below are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you, plus you might get a special offer or savings. Win/Win! The products I recommend are the ones I absolutely love and use to run my business.
If a contractor’s tools of the trade include a hammer, tape measure, and a level, then my must-have tools would be my Nikon D750, my camera lenses, Creative Cloud (Lightroom Classic and Photoshop Adobe), and ShootProof ** to deliver the images to my clients.
In addition to the tools above, here are my 5 favorite business tools to keep my business running like a well-oiled machine.
HoneyBook
This CRM (Client Relationship Management) software helps me gather clients’ information, and it keeps my photo shoot projects organized. I can send contracts, invoices, questionnaires, emails, photoshoot prep guides, etc.
With their robust AI, automation, and lead forms, they save me so much time while providing a customized experience for my clients.
I also offer HoneyBook support to help you set up everything you need so you can start using this amazing tool.
Google Workspace
For only $7 per month (Business Starter Plan), I have a secure, custom business email (you@your-company.com) and larger cloud storage on Google Drive.
I save the photoshoot prep guides and other work-related documents on my Google Drive so I can easily share these resources with my clients.
Want to try Google Workspace? Sign up with my affiliate link to start your free trial and get 10% off your first year. https://referworkspace.app.goo.gl/1qNe
Showit
I love Showit! It is my favorite website platform and builder.
Showit is a drag-and-drop website platform that you can customize both desktop and mobile easily and have total creative control, all without writing a single line of code.
You can easily add keywords to boost your SEO or hire someone to do it for you.
Canva has been a game-changer! Upgrading to Canva Pro is so worth it. With so many templates, graphics, photos, audio, and even videos to choose from.
I can customize my brand kit to match my company’s brand, logo, color palette, and brand fonts. It saves me so much time using these templates I created.
Most of all, I love how easy it is to use Canva to create everything you need to promote your business online. You don’t have to be a designer because they have beautiful templates for you to use and customize.
Not sure where to start or want to learn more advanced design skills? I run Canva workshops a few times a year. Check out my upcoming events here.
Moo
I love Moo products!! Whether you are looking to order some business cards, marketing materials, or branded items. Their quality and customer service are the best!
And if you are a photographer, you can upload up to 50 of your favorite photos on the back of your business card or any of their print products at no extra cost. How amazing is that!
Many of my clients shared how much they love my process and the tools I use, so that prompts me to write this blog so I can share them with you! I hope you find this blog helpful.
Starting a business is hard, but once you find the right tools, they’ll help you build a stronger business foundation and a better relationship with your clients. You got this!
What are some of your favorite software programs you use for your business? Comment below.
Interested in a headshot or a branding photo session in the North and Central New Jersey area? Contact me and schedule a discovery call.