Why This Matters Now

AI-powered search tools are becoming the “first stop” for people looking for services. Instead of browsing through pages of search results, they’re getting instant, conversational recommendations.

GEO builds on your existing SEO efforts but focuses on how answer engines retrieve and cite your work.

These tips will help both human visitors and AI tools see you as a credible, relevant choice.

Your Tips and Suggestions

1. Be clear about what you do and where you are. Spell it out — don’t just say “photographer.” Say you offer professional headshots in [City Name] and list nearby areas you serve.
   Why this matters: AI tools need precise service and location info to recommend you accurately.

2. Include a short, helpful About section. A few clear sentences about your style, approach, and clients.
   Why this matters: AI scans your About page to figure out what kind of photographer you are.

3. Use simple, searchable phrases. Include terms like “LinkedIn headshots,” “actors’ headshots,” and “corporate photography” naturally in your text.
   Why this matters: Plain language matches the way people — and AI — actually search.

4. Make sure every photo has alt text. Add a short description that says what’s in the photo and where it’s taken.
   Why this matters: Alt text helps AI understand your work and makes your site more accessible.

5. List your name, studio, and city in the footer. Include them at the bottom of every page.
   Why this matters: Consistent, repeated details help AI link your name to your location.

6. Create a FAQ or Q&A section. Use real client-style questions like “What should I wear for a headshot?”
   Why this matters: Conversational Q&A mirrors the way people ask AI tools for advice.

7. Link your site to other trusted pages. Include Headshots Matter, Student Headshots, or relevant associations.
   Why this matters: Trusted links signal credibility to AI search tools.

8. Add a Google Business Profile. Keep it updated and link it to your site.
   Why this matters: AI often pulls data directly from Google profiles.

9. Write for real people, not algorithms. Keep it clean and natural.
   Why this matters: AI rewards human-friendly writing over keyword stuffing.

10. Use your full name in blog posts or captions.
    Why this matters: This makes it easier for AI to connect your work to you personally.

11. Name your image files clearly. Example: LinkedIn_Headshot_YourName_Toronto_StudioName.jpg.
    Why this matters: File names are part of how AI understands and categorises images.

12. Add a few testimonials with context. Include client type or project details.
    Why this matters: AI uses reviews to assess reputation and relevance.

13. Mention your HSM membership. Add it to your About section and affiliations list.
    Why this matters: Membership adds credibility and industry connection.

14. Use structured headers (H1, H2, H3).
    Why this matters: Proper formatting helps AI scan and understand your site faster.

15. Avoid fancy navigation terms. Keep menu labels like “Portfolio” or “Contact” simple.
    Why this matters: Clear menus help both people and AI find your content.

16. Keep your site mobile-friendly.
    Why this matters: Mobile performance affects both AI and traditional search rankings.

17. Refresh your homepage occasionally. Swap in new images or text.
    Why this matters: Updates show your site is active and relevant.

18. Keep your LinkedIn profile aligned with your site.
    Why this matters: Matching details help AI link your web presence across platforms.

19. Pitch a guest post for the HSM blog.
    Why this matters: It builds backlinks and visibility while connecting you with the HSM community.

20. Add Schema markup to your site. Use structured data (like LocalBusiness schema) to help AI tools and search engines clearly understand your services, location, and reputation.
    Why it matters: Schema works like a translator between your website and AI/search engines — making sure they know exactly who you are, where you are, and what you offer. This increases the chances you’ll be mentioned when someone asks AI, “Who’s the best headshot photographer in [City]?”

Extra GEO-Boost Tips

• Add a summary block at the top or bottom of key pages — short bullet points about what you do, where you’re based, and your specialties.

• Include context-rich Q&A that mirrors how real clients phrase their questions.

• Make your content scannable with short paragraphs, clear headings, and easy-to-read formatting.

• Keep your site fast-loading — AI tools skip slow pages.

Ready to take this further?

We now offer a Get Ready for GEO session — a personalised, one-on-one audit and action plan to make your website and online presence more visible in AI-powered search results.

Whether you’re an experienced headshot photographer or just starting to grow your business, this session is designed to help you show up when potential clients ask AI tools questions like: “Who’s the best headshot photographer in [City]?”

What’s Included in Your Session

In this focused 30–45 minute zoom call, we’ll:

• Review your website and online profiles for AI search visibility
  (we’ll have already edited your webiste and social accounts before the call)

• Spot quick wins you can implement right away to improve your chances of being recommended

• Outline longer-term improvements to keep your presence strong over time

• Give you a custom checklist based on the 20 Core HSM AI Search Tips plus the latest GEO strategies we’ve learned from industry experts

Pricing

• HSM Members: $95 USD

• Non-Members: $145 USD (includes a $50 USD credit toward HSM membership if you join within 30 days)

• Optional Add-On: Implementation Help — $75 per hour USD

HSM Members: Book now and get your AI visibility plan started.
Non-Members: Your session includes a membership credit — join us and make this the start of something bigger.