So you’re thinking about going pro, eh? We know you can do it! Especially if you do all your research, cross all your t’s and eagerly jump in with both feet ready to learn. With the combined wisdom of four experienced photographers sharing insider information on the photography biz, BP4U’s Photography Business Basics Guide is a must for anyone pursuing their dream job as a photographer.
Getting New Clients
If nobody knows your photography business exists, how do they know to book a shoot with you? That’s a rhetorical question because I know you already know the answer! Spreading word of your business is absolutely essential if you want to make it as a photographer.
In terms of placing advertisements, think about what you’re “selling” and who you want to sell to. For example, if you’re a wedding photographer, advertising on The Knot or a local bridal blog may prove beneficial. If your specialty is family or child sessions, consider local family/lifestyle blogs or publications. You can also leave your business card on school bulletin boards or at local cafes (get permission, first).
Social media is another effective way to spread your name. Keep your Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter and Instagram feeds up-to-date and engage your followers.
FYI: As time progresses, you will likely earn more clients via word of mouth, as well. It’s an amazing feeling when that happens!
3 Tips For Starting Your Photography Business
- If you haven’t decided on a camera model yet, give several cameras a practice run. Rent out the models that appeal to you before investing and buying your own.
- Picking your business name is a big deal. Always think with the future in mind. For example, think about a potential change in business partners down the road, name changes if you’re a woman, etc. You also want a name that’s easy to spell.
- Cover yourself with contracts and other forms. The basics of your contract should include a cancellation policy, deposits, liability clauses and should also protect your work. Psst… BP4U sells contracts and forms that you’ll need.
The text above is just a hint of the awesome information contained in the Photography Business Basics: How To Start Your Photography Business and Go Pro! Guide. Click here to read more or to purchase.
{WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYIN’}:
“I felt like I was sitting at a coffee shop enjoying coffee listening to each of your stories on how you all started. I loved that. I relate to each of you at different times. Made me wish you all were local to me so we could sit and have a weekly chat. I found the information quite helpful.” –Kristy
“I often feel uncomfortable adding images of my daughter to my portfolio — since she’s not a “client” and it feels fake or not legit. Like it makes me “just” a momtographer. But Sarah made me feel better about that, too.” –Lissa
“I didn’t realize there was so much to starting a photog business. But it is laid out in a way that gives you the basics of what you HAVE to have. I would have done things so very wrong!” –Samantha
Topics covered:
- How to get started – You have to start somewhere, let us walk you through what you need as we go over licenses, insurance, and must have equipment for your type of photography.
- Business identity: pros and cons to choosing your business name, finding your niche.
- Web Identity: What to make of all the business resources offered out there, what type of site is best for what type of photography you’re shooting, blogging, social media, how to use Facebook to grow your business.
- Must Have Info: What you really need to know right now to take the plunge into becoming a professional photographer.
- Business Marketing: How to market when you are new to the scene and just starting out, the best and worst marketing investments.
- Business Planning: How to make the dream of becoming a professional photographer a reality.
- Personal Experiences from professional photographers about the weaknesses they overcame, the journey they have been through in making this dream happen. Stories of pushing through when the business got rough and they felt defeated.