Setting Up a Domain Name and Website

Creating a Photography Website in Malta: Step-by-Step

1. Define Your Website’s Purpose? What is your purpose? Do you want to simply showcase your work, or do you want to create an income from photography?

  • Showcase your portfolio
  • Allow client bookings or inquiries
  • Offer client galleries/proofing
  • Sell prints or digital downloads
  • Build your brand & SEO presence

2. Choose a Website Platform (keep it simple and

All-in-One Builders (Great for Photographers)

These platforms include hosting and are beginner-friendly:

  • Wix – Highly visual and drag-and-drop
  • Squarespace – Elegant, creative templates
  • Pixieset – Photography-focused, with client galleries
  • Format.com – Portfolio and proofing tools

WordPress.org (More Control & Customisation)

  • Requires separate hosting and domain
  • Best for scalability and SEO

3. Register a Domain Name (incl. .MT)

To register a .MT domain in Malta:

  • Official Registry: NIC Malta – www.nic.org.mt
  • Managed by NIC (Network Information Centre Malta)

Steps to register a .mt domain:

  1. Go to https://www.nic.org.mt
  2. Search for your domain (e.g. yourstudio.mt)
  3. If available, create an account and apply
  4. Provide:
    • Business or personal details
    • Technical contact (e.g., your web host or IT provider)
  5. Pay the annual fee (approx. €20–30/year for standard .mt or €10/year for .com.mt)

Tips:

  • Use .com.mt if targeting a local Maltese audience
  • Use .mt for a cleaner, modern brand look

4. Choose Hosting (If Using WordPress)

You’ll need hosting if you’re not using a site builder:

Maltese Hosting Providers:

  • https://www.keyworld.net
  • https://www.cyberia.com.mt
  • https://www.vivohosting.com

🌍 International Hosts Supporting .mt Domains:

  • SiteGround (has support for Malta)
  • Bluehost
  • Hostinger

5. Set Up and Design the Website

Essential pages:

  • Home – Clear intro and visual impact
  • Portfolio – Categories like weddings, portraits, etc.
  • About Me – Build trust, share your story
  • Services – Packages and pricing
  • Testimonials – Client feedback
  • Contact – Form, map, WhatsApp, email
  • Optional: Blog, FAQ, Booking page, Print Store

✅ Tip: Use high-quality, compressed images for fast loading. Tools: TinyPNG.com

6. Connect Your Domain to Your Website

  • If using Wix, Squarespace, etc. – update domain DNS or buy directly through them
  • If using WordPress – point your .mt domain to your hosting’s name servers (NS)

NIC Malta allows DNS management via its control panel.

7. Add Features for Photographers

  • Client galleries (password-protected)
  • Booking or inquiry form
  • E-commerce for print sales
  • Testimonials and portfolio filters
  • WhatsApp chat or call button

8. Comply with GDPR (Malta is in the EU)

  • Add a privacy policy (especially if collecting names, emails, photos)
  • Get cookie consent (use a pop-up plugin or widget)
  • Collect explicit consent for contact forms and email marketing

9. SEO and Social Media Integration

  • Use keywords like “Malta wedding photographer” or “portrait photography in Valletta”
  • Register on Google Business Profile with your website
  • Add your social profiles (Instagram, Facebook, TikTok)

10. Launch and Promote Your Site

  • Test every link, form, and mobile view
  • Share on social media and photography forums
  • Add to your business card, invoices, and email signature
  • Ask happy clients to leave Google reviews

✅ Optional Add-Ons:

  • Custom email (e.g., info@yourdomain.mt) via Google Workspace or Zoho
  • Live chat (Tawk.to, Crisp)
  • Booking systems (Calendly, Tave, or Acuity)

Would you like help setting up a homepage layout, a GDPR privacy policy, or selecting a platform that best fits your photography style and business size?