Collaboration Over Competition: 3 Creative Ways to Grow Your Photography Business Through Community

At Brooklyn Boudoir and Stephanie Bordas Education, one of our core values is collaboration over competition. Why? Because photography isn’t just about creating beautiful images—it’s about connection, community, and building a business that lights you up and lifts others up along the way.

In an industry that often feels saturated or competitive, collaboration is a breath of fresh air. It allows you to lean into your unique strengths, create elevated client experiences, and build meaningful relationships with other creatives. Plus—let’s be real—being an entrepreneur can feel lonely sometimes. Inviting others into your world can make your business feel more fun, creative, and sustainable.

Today, I’m sharing 3 creative ways to collaborate in your photography business—whether you’re brand new or looking to expand your reach in a deeper, more aligned way.

First, Let’s Talk About the Difference Between a Service and an Experience

Before we dive into collaboration ideas, it's important to understand a key concept that will help you elevate your brand:

A photography service delivers photos. A photography experience makes your client feel seen, supported, and empowered.

Anyone can pick up a camera and deliver a gallery. What sets you apart—especially in boudoir and portrait photography—is how your clients feel throughout the process. Are you guiding them with confidence? Anticipating their needs? Curating a thoughtful, luxurious experience from start to finish?

Creating an unforgettable client experience is what allows you to:

• Attract high-end, aligned clients

• Raise your rates with integrity

• Build a referral-worthy brand

• Stand out in a saturated market

And here’s the best part: delivering a high-touch experience doesn’t mean doing more—it means being more intentional. Many of the ideas I’m about to share will enhance your client experience without adding hours to your workflow.

1. Collaborate with Local Businesses to Add Value to Your Sessions

Shopping at my favorite lingerie boutique

Looking to offer a more luxurious, high-end feel to your sessions without increasing your workload? Partner with local brands that complement your style and values.

Ideas:

• Partner with a lingerie boutique or stylist to offer wardrobe consults or discounts to your boudoir clients.

• Work with a florist to create a signature bouquet or floral detail for sessions.

• Team up with a makeup artist or hairstylist to offer beauty services on shoot day.

• Include a signature treat from a local bakery or café as a client gift or post-session indulgence.

Not only does this elevate your client experience, but it also builds cross-promotional opportunities. Everyone wins!

2. Build a Creative Team for Styled Shoots or Portfolio Refreshes

Working with a trusted hair and makeup artist is a power move

Styled shoots aren’t just for beginners—they’re a powerful tool for any photographer who wants to grow, experiment, or pivot into a more premium market.

Collaborate with:

• Hair & makeup artists for new headshots or content creation days

• Designers, models, or other photographers to create editorial-style content

• Interior decorators or boutique hotels for luxe shoot locations

Use these collaborations to:

• Test new concepts or lighting setups

• Attract new clients through elevated portfolio work

• Build relationships and tag team on marketing

Pro Tip: If you're moving into boudoir or high-end portrait work, styled shoots can help showcase what you want to be booked for.

3. Create a Referral Network with Like-Minded Photographers

There is more than enough business to go around—but not every client is your ideal client. That’s why building a community of trusted photographers is such a smart move.

You can refer clients based on:

• Budget

• Style (light & airy vs. moody & dramatic)

• Availability

• Niche (maternity, wedding, branding, boudoir)

And you can receive referrals the same way in return.

Bonus idea? Start a mastermind or peer group with a few local or online photographers where you share ideas, hold each other accountable, and lift each other up.

You don’t need to do this alone—and when your network expands, so does your reach and reputation.

Final Thoughts: Community Is a Growth Strategy

You don’t need to hustle harder or compete with every photographer in your city to stand out. You just need to get clear on your value—and invite others into the process.

By collaborating with intention, you:

• Enhance your client experience

• Create aligned opportunities for visibility

• Build long-term, supportive relationships

• Step into a leadership role in your niche

Whether you’re a boudoir photographer creating luxury hotel experiences or a portrait photographer looking to deepen your impact, collaboration is one of the most powerful (and enjoyable!) ways to grow.

Want More?

If you loved this, be sure to grab my guide: “Co-Marketing for Creative Professionals” – designed to help you work smarter, attract dream clients, and build a business that supports your life.

And don’t forget to join me on Instagram [@brooklynboudoir] where I share behind-the-scenes content, photographer tips, and mindset tools every week!