As I reflect on this past semester of marketing studies at George Brown, I realize how much I’ve gained—not just in marketing knowledge but in how to build connections within the food and beverage industry. In this post, I’ll share key takeaways from my experience and how networking has played a critical role in advancing my food and beverage photography business.

Let’s dive in!

What I Learned

A highlight of the semester was the Marketing Seminar series, where I had the opportunity to hear from industry experts. A central theme in their talks was the importance of relationship-building—a lesson that I’ve directly applied to my photography business.

Jacqueline Hisey’s presentation on digital marketing was especially impactful. She shared how she landed a role at Studio 71 by proactively reaching out to someone internally. This taught me that opportunities often come from engaging with people, not just applying for jobs. This perspective has reshaped how I approach my business, reminding me that building relationships with clients, collaborators, and mentors is key to long-term success in the competitive food photography market.

I also found John Cardoso’s session on aesthetic literacy insightful. As a food photographer, I’ve always relied on my intuition when making creative decisions. John’s framework challenged me to think more strategically about how my visuals align with my clients’ messages and brand identity. This is especially important when collaborating with food and beverage brands, as creating images that not only look appealing but also serve a business purpose is crucial for fostering meaningful partnerships.

These seminars opened my eyes to the broader possibilities within my field, blending creative vision with strategic marketing in my photography business. It’s not just about creating beautiful images but about aligning visuals with clients’ goals and driving results.

Networking & Resources

Building a network within the marketing and food & beverage sectors has been a key part of my journey this semester. Initially, I wasn’t sure how to begin networking effectively, but I’ve since learned that it’s about creating authentic connections and finding common ground.

I also attended industry events where I met professionals from food and beverage brands. At one event, I connected with creatives who had successfully transitioned into marketing careers in food & beverage. These interactions reinforced that most people are willing to share their knowledge, and I’ve leveraged this for my photography business.

In addition to in-person events, I focused on enhancing my LinkedIn presence. I joined groups for food & beverage professionals and creative industries, which provided resources like job listings, advice, and networking opportunities. LinkedIn has helped me connect with industry professionals and potential clients, allowing me to grow my network and stay updated on trends in the food & beverage space.

When it comes to client outreach, I’ve found LinkedIn invaluable—not just for applying for gigs but for connecting with key decision-makers in food & beverage. I’ve been intentional about reaching out to food brands, photographers, and others to build relationships and share my work.

From Networking to Running a Business 

Networking has played a pivotal role in moving my business forward. While platforms like job boards and directories have been helpful, the personal connections I’ve made have truly opened doors. For example, through my connections, I secured a food photography project with a local restaurant that was looking for high-quality imagery for their menu and marketing materials. Building rapport with the restaurant’s marketing team at a local event was a key factor in landing the project.

I’m excited about the future of my photography business, as the connections I’ve made both in and outside of my field are providing me with exciting opportunities. Even if a project doesn’t directly lead to new clients, it’s helping me build valuable relationships that will pay off in the long run.

Networking Tips & Best Practices

What have I learned about networking in the context of my photography business? Here are a few tips I’d like to share:

• Be Proactive – Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you. Reach out to industry professionals, ask questions, and engage with others genuinely.
  
• Follow Up – After meeting someone, always follow up with a message to show appreciation for their time and advice.
  
• Leverage Social Media – Platforms like LinkedIn are invaluable for building professional relationships. Don’t just use them to apply for jobs—engage with content, join relevant groups, and connect with others in your field.
  
• Ask for Advice – Don’t be afraid to ask for guidance, whether about photography techniques, business strategies, or industry trends.
  
• Maintain Relationships – Networking is ongoing. Keep in touch with the people you meet, share updates, and continue learning from each other.
  
  

In Closing

This semester of learning has shown me that networking isn’t just about collecting contacts—it’s about building meaningful, supportive relationships. The connections I’ve made through my courses, industry events, and online interactions are helping shape the future of my food & beverage photography business. With the right connections and mindset, I’m confident I can continue to grow and make a lasting impact in the industry.

Ready to transform your brand with professional food photography? 
Check out my portfolio or reach out to discuss how I can help you bring your vision to life, and then give the attention your amazing dishes deserve!