Why Reviews, Rankings, and Social Media Matter

Why Reviews, Rankings, and Social Media Matter

After 14 years of photographing weddings, full-time, across Hampshire and beyond, I’ve learned that the magic of wedding photography doesn’t just happen behind the lens. A big part of building a successful, trusted business also happens online—through reputation, visibility, and connection.

This year, my business passed three important milestones that I’m incredibly proud of:

  • Google: Rank on page one of Google organic search for “Hampshire wedding photographer” and often at the number one spot!
  • Instagram: I’ve gained over 1,000 followers on Instagram.
  • Reviews: I’ve received more than 50 five-star reviews on Google (and they’re all five stars!)

 

These achievements may seem like vanity metrics at first glance, but they reflect something deeper: consistency, trust, and a genuine connection with the couples I’ve had the honour of photographing. I want to share why these three markers matter—not just to me as a photographer, but to you as someone planning your wedding.


Trust is Everything

Over 50 five star Google Reviews

When you’re choosing a wedding photographer, you’re not just booking someone to take pictures—you’re trusting someone to preserve one of the most meaningful days of your life.

That’s why reviews matter so much. Every one of my Google reviews is from a real couple who took the time to share their experience. They talk about how they felt on the day, how I interacted with guests, how I blended in quietly when needed and offered gentle direction when it mattered. These reviews are a reflection of how I work and the care I bring to each wedding.

Having over 50 five-star reviews (and not a single one less than five stars) isn’t just a number—it’s a symbol of the trust couples place in me, and the trust future couples can feel when considering booking me.


Visibility Means Accessibility

Search Hampshire Wedding Photographer in Google and find Ben Goode Photography on page 1.

Let’s be honest—when you search for Hampshire wedding photographer, you’re not scrolling through ten pages of results. You want to find someone great, quickly. That’s why showing up at the top of the first page of Google, in the organic results, is such a big deal.

It’s taken years of consistently delivering for my couples, updating my website, blogging real weddings, and optimising for local search to earn that spot. But for you, it means I’m not just a great photographer—I’m also reliable, established, and easy to find.

Being visible on Google means I’m accessible. And that’s what I want to be—someone who’s easy to connect with, easy to talk to, and ready to help you feel at ease from the moment you get in touch.


Social Proof Matters

Instagram profile ben.goode

Instagram has become a huge part of the wedding planning process. It’s where couples discover styles they love, explore photographers’ portfolios, and get a feel for someone’s personality.

Reaching over 1,000 followers on Instagram has been a gradual, organic process. I don’t buy followers or use bots. Every person who follows me is someone who’s found value in what I share—whether it’s a sneak peek from a recent wedding, a behind-the-scenes story, or just a quiet moment captured beautifully.

Social media allows me to connect in a more personal, real-time way. You’re not just seeing the final images—you’re getting a sense of how I work, what I notice, and how I approach each wedding with fresh eyes and genuine care.


14 Years in the Making

None of these milestones happened overnight. I went full-time back in 2011! Behind every review, every ranking boost, and every follower is a wedding day I gave my all to. Fourteen years of early starts, late nights, backing-up batteries, muddy shoes, emotional moments, and so many smiles.

These achievements are just one way of saying: you’re in good hands.

When you book me as your wedding photographer, you’re getting more than someone who can take great photos. You’re getting someone who’s committed, experienced, and truly honoured to be part of your day.

Thank you to every couple who’s left a review, followed along on Instagram, or simply recommended me to a friend. I wouldn’t be here without you. Thank you.

Here’s to the next chapter—and maybe your wedding will be a part of it.

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