You already know that having great branding photos is essential, but if no one can find your business online, it doesn’t matter how good you look. That’s why I’m sharing four quick SEO strategies I use (and recommend to my clients) to get found online.
Because pretty photos + smart strategy = growth.
Let’s examine some local SEO moves that will help your brand be seen by the right people at the right time.
1. Get your Google Business Profile and Bing Places listing in order
Everyone talks about Google My Business (now called Google Business Profile), but not enough people are also setting up Bing Places. And here’s why you should: Microsoft invested heavily in ChatGPT and uses Bing search to fuel it, so if someone’s using AI tools to look for a business like yours, you want to be listed.
Here are my links so you can see what this looks like in action:
Kristina Rose Google Business Profile
Kristina Rose Bing Places listing
Claim your business. Keep it updated. Post regularly. It makes a difference.
2. Use strategic keywords (and pay attention to your blog titles)
Think about what someone types into Google when they need your services. For me, a big one is “branding photography Blacksburg, VA”. And those happen to be the keywords for this blog post. But if you look at this one, Branding Photographer, Christiansburg, VA – I used another local town in that blog post to cover more of my bases.
Your blog titles matter. So do the words you sprinkle throughout your site—including alt text on images, headers, and even your FAQs. If you want to get found, make sure you’re actually speaking your audience’s language.
3. Get high-quality backlinks
Search engines love it when trusted websites link back to yours. That’s called a “backlink,” and it builds your online credibility. But not just any site will do; you want links from brands that align with your offers.
For me, branding photography in Blacksburg, VA, often means working with realtors and small business owners who want to stand out in a competitive market. Since people moving to the area are likely searching for things to do, being featured in this Redfin article was a perfect fit. Honestly, I was thrilled it mentioned the Lyric Theatre. I’ve used it as a backdrop for several sessions, and it’s one of my favorite spots in town for photos with characters. Here’s an example:
Check out this Redfin article I was featured in:
Whether you’re a nature lover looking for a home with mountain views, history buff interested in historic houses for rent, or a foodie who needs an apartment near the hotspots, you’ll find something special in this vibrant community here:
7 Unique Things to Do in Blacksburg, VA: An Unforgettable Visit | Redfin
4. Optimize your images
If you’re in a visual industry like mine, this step isn’t optional—it’s essential. Before you upload any photos to your site, rename the files using clear, descriptive keywords. For example, instead of dumping “IMG_3827.jpg” into your gallery, go with something like “branding-photography-in-blacksburg-va-kristina-rose.jpg.”
Add meaningful alt text that accurately describes the image and includes a keyword when it fits naturally. This helps screen readers and search engines understand what your content is about.
These small steps might seem tedious, but they quietly tell Google, “Hey, I know what I’m doing over here.” And trust me, that matters.
Want help making sure your visual brand works for your business?
That’s what I do. Let’s talk about creating intentional, strategic branding photos that make you look great and help people find you. Contact me!
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