Hotel Collaboration Email Template: How to Approach Local Businesses for Photography Collaborations
If you're a photographer looking to expand your business, partnering with local businesses can be a game-changer. As a Santa Barbara family photographer, it was one of the best ways I expanded my business.
The most effective way to kickstart these partnerships is by sending a well-crafted email that grabs their attention.
Building connections with local businesses can open doors to incredible opportunities for photographers, especially when approached thoughtfully and professionally. In fact, I used this exact approach to add over $20K to my bookings in just one year.
After emailing several boutique hotels in my area, I followed up consistently and even went in person to introduce myself to the front desk staff and management. This personal touch made a huge difference in securing long-term collaborations. By combining email outreach with face-to-face connections, I was able to build trust and create lasting relationships that significantly boosted my business.
The key is to offer genuine value, keep your communication concise, and always follow up. Whether you're aiming to collaborate with hotels or any other local businesses, the right approach and a personalized email can make all the difference in setting you apart.
In this post, I’ll show you five ways to approach local businesses for photography collaborations and give you a winning hotel collaboration email template to get you started.
Hotel Collaboration Email Template: Why Partnering with Local Businesses Works
Local businesses need strong visuals. Whether it's a boutique hotel, a trendy café, or a salon, businesses rely on high-quality photos to market themselves.
As a photographer, you have the unique ability to provide that value. In return, these businesses can help expand your reach by featuring your work on their social media, website, or even physical spaces.
It’s a win-win. But first, you need to make contact—and that’s where your email comes in.
Hotel Collaboration Email Template
1. Research the Business Before You Reach Out
Before hitting “send” on that email, do your homework. Study the business’s website, social media, and branding. Are they active on Instagram? Do their current photos align with their brand? Look for gaps where your photography services could help. By understanding their needs, you can tailor your email to show them how to enhance their visuals.
For example, a boutique hotel might need updated room photos on its website. You could offer to update those images to reflect their unique charm, helping them attract more customers. When you come prepared with specific ideas, you show you’ve done the work and are serious about collaboration.
2. Offer a Value Proposition
When you reach out, ensure the business knows what’s in it for them. They’re not just doing you a favor by working with you. You have the skills they need! Be upfront about how your photography can boost their business. Will new images increase their social media engagement? Can you create visuals that elevate their brand?
Could you position your photography as a solution to their problems? Yes! For instance, if a hotel has a low engagement rate on Instagram, your beautifully curated photos could be the key to turning that around. Always make sure your offer sounds valuable and relevant to their needs.
3. Keep Your Email Short and Direct
Nobody has time to read a lengthy pitch. Get to the point quickly. Introduce yourself, explain why you’re reaching out, and offer a clear benefit. Busy business owners appreciate brevity, so avoid fluff.
Here’s a simple structure for your email:
Introduction: Introduce yourself and your photography business.
Compliment: Mention something you admire about their business.
The Offer: Explain how your photography can improve their visuals and why it benefits them.
Call to Action: Ask to set up a time for a meeting or call to discuss the collaboration further.
4. Include a Clear Call to Action
Don't leave your email hanging. Always end with a clear, actionable step. If you want a meeting, say so. If you're offering a free consultation, be specific. A solid call to action encourages the recipient to take the next step, whether it's scheduling a call or meeting in person.
For example:
"I would love to connect and discuss how I can create new, engaging visuals for your brand. Are you available next week for a quick chat?"
5. Follow Up Without Being Pushy
Businesses get busy. Don't be discouraged if you don’t hear back after your first email. A week later, send a polite follow-up reminding them of your offer. Keep it friendly, not pushy. Sometimes, a second email is all it takes to get a response.
Conclusion
Building connections with local businesses can open doors to incredible opportunities for photographers, especially when approached thoughtfully and professionally.
A solid first impression through email can lead to long-term collaborations that elevate your portfolio and the business’s brand.
The key is to offer genuine value, keep your communication concise, and always follow up. Whether you're aiming to collaborate with hotels or other local businesses, the right approach and a personalized email can make all the difference in setting you apart. Don’t wait—start crafting those partnerships today!
Come say hi on the 'Gram! I would love to hear from you!
