How to Create a Professional Media Kit: A Beginner’s Guide with Free Template
Why Every Beginner Photographer Needs a Media Kit
Starting out as a photographer but don’t have a website yet? A media kit is your go-to introduction to potential clients, showcasing your skills, services, and unique style. Think of it as a professional resume for photographers, designed to make a powerful first impression and help you stand out.
Depending on the type of photography services you provide, your media kit may vary, but if you’re brand new to this and not sure how to put one together, keep scrolling for a simple, effective template I’ve put together for you.
Why you need a media kit
A media kit is not only a great way to introduce yourself to potential clients and brands, but it also makes you look polished and professional right from the start. And listen closely—proactively reaching out to people with a solid media kit can set you apart. You’re more likely to get opportunities if you take the initiative rather than waiting around for them to come to you.
Your media kit is essentially your digital business card—your first impression. To get you started, here are some of the things you’ll need to include. Of course, feel free to get creative with it and add or remove things as you see fit.
1. Introduction
Brief bio: Start with a short, engaging summary about yourself—who you are and what makes you stand out as a photographer. Aim for around 50-80 words. Keep it simple, but don’t shy away from highlighting any unique aspects of your journey or personality. Bonus points if this part tells a client what you can do for them. For example, in mine I’ve said: “I’m Lisa and I help hotel and travel businesses strengthen their online presence with photos and videos that stand out.” This leaves no ambiguity regarding what kind of service I offer!
Photography style or niche: Clearly define your specialty. Whether it’s family portrait photography, fashion and editorial work, or food and product photography, potential clients should immediately know what you’re great at.
2. Portfolio and examples of your work
Your strongest images: Include 6-10 of your best photographs that reflect the type of services you're offering. Choose images that showcase your unique style and expertise.
Clickable links: Don’t forget to add links to your full portfolio online, whether it’s your website, Instagram, or any other platform that displays your work.
3. List of services with prices
Services and rates: Clearly outline the services you offer and what’s included in each package. Be specific with details like the number of images, delivery time, and any additional perks.
For instance, when I offered travel portrait photography, my packages looked like this:
One-hour shoot: 30 edited images, delivered within 5 business days – ¥42,000
Two-hour shoot: 60 edited images, one outfit change, delivered within 5 business days – ¥65,000
Add-ons: Expedited photo delivery within 2 business days – additional ¥20,000
If you have well-defined packages, including prices in your media kit can help streamline the process. However, if you prefer to discuss pricing in detail, simply write “get in touch for a custom quote” or “prices start from X, please inquire for more details.”
Personally, as I now do mostly hotel photography, I prefer to have in-depth conversations with clients to understand their needs, the intended use of the images, and any licensing requirements. Once I have all the details, I provide them with a tailored quote.
If you’re not sure how much to charge, make sure to read my article on how to price yourself as a photographer.
4. Client testimonials (optional, but recommended)
Testimonials: Including testimonials in your kit can significantly boost credibility, helping potential clients trust you more! Even if you’ve only worked with friends or family, ask them for a short, honest review of their experience.
5. Contact information
Contact info: It probably goes without saying, but make it easy for people to get in touch with you. Include your email, website, and social media handles. Personally, I avoid sharing my phone number because I don’t pick up my phone, lol, but this is up to you.
Also, mention your location and whether you're available for travel, as this can be a deciding factor for some clients.
6. Media or features (if applicable)
Press features and collaborations: If your work has been published in a magazine or blog, include these credentials in your media kit. It enhances your reputation and builds trust with clients.
Awards and recognition: Include any awards or notable achievements. Even local or small competitions can help set you apart!
7. Branding and visuals
Consistent aesthetic: Your media kit should reflect your personal brand. Use consistent fonts, colors, and design elements that align with your style as a photographer.
Professional headshot (optional): Including a high-quality headshot can add a personal touch, especially if you offer client-facing services. I personally don’t include my photo in my media kit but do have one on my website for that extra personal connection.
8. Social presence (optional)
If you also have a social presence and it makes sense to include it in your media kit, include your follower count, demographics and average reach.
9. What not to do
Show a lack of confidence: It can be tempting to use phrases like “I’m currently learning” or “I’m trying to,” especially when you’re just starting out. Avoid this! If you come across as uncertain about your abilities, potential clients may hesitate to hire you. Even if you're not fully confident, remember the saying: Fake it ‘til you make it—I did the same when I started.
Share too much information: Try not to pack your media kit with too much info. Keep it simple and to the point. Focus on what you do best, your key wins, the services you offer, and a few client reviews. You don’t need to list every project—just the ones that really show off your skills.
Not include a call to action: Guide your client towards contacting you! Make it super easy with a call to action such as “Get in touch with me, I’d love to hear from you”.
Forget your target audience: Tailor your media kit to the specific audience you're targeting. If you're focused on portraits, emphasize your relevant work in those fields rather than unrelated photography genres.
Good luck, and have fun creating your media kit!
—Lisa
