It’s no secret that many photographers are able to live a lifestyle most would dream of by turning their passion into a business.
The number one question that successful photographers get asked is how to start a photography business. People see their work, travel, money, and lifestyle and want that for themselves.
Fortunately, starting a photography business is not as difficult as some might think – but it does require some planning and effort.
In this guide, we will walk you through the steps necessary how to start a photography business in 2023!
What is a Photography Business?
A photography business is a company that specializes in creating photographic images- either through digital or film equipment, and provides services such as portrait photography, wedding photography, commercial photography, event photography, and more.
Photography businesses can include any number of services including portrait sessions (either in-studio or on location), event photography (such as weddings or corporate events), stock photography (selling photographs to magazines, newspapers, etc.), and selling prints online.
- What you need to know before you start your photography business
Before you can start your photography business, there are a few things you should consider.
First and foremost, you need to decide what type of photography business you want to create:
- Are you looking to specialize in portrait photography?
- Do you want to focus on event photography or wedding photography?
- Would you like to start a car photography business?
- Do you have any experience or interest in underwater activities?
- Once you have a good idea of the direction of your business, it’s time to get started! Here’s how:
Step-by-Step Instructions on How to start a Photography Business
Step 1. Purchase the Right Equipment
Starting a photography business doesn’t happen overnight – it takes careful planning, dedication, and of course, the right equipment.
Without essential photography tools such as cameras, lenses, tripods, and lighting gear, your business will be doomed before it even has the chance to take off!
Additionally, purchasing high-quality photography equipment is key when it comes to keeping up with changing technology; losing out on the latest innovations could mean getting stuck behind the competition.
So if you’re set on launching your photography business, make sure you don’t skimp when it comes to equipping yourself with all the essentials.
After all, having a good grasp on photography is only half of what makes a great photographer – knowing how to use the best gear can help you stand out in today’s market.
- Below is a list of supplies you will need to begin your photography business venture.
1. Professional Camera
Your professional camera is the most important piece of equipment but make sure to buy one that fits your budget as well.
2. Backup Camera
As a professional photographer, it’s always good practice to have a high-quality backup camera so you’re prepared for any unexpected issues.
3. Lenses
Investing in professional lenses is essential to taking quality photos and giving your clients the best possible results.
4. Tripod
A tripod can help you get sharp and steady shots, even when shooting in low-light conditions or during long exposures.
5. Camera Bag
A camera bag is a must-have for any photographer and will help keep your gear safe and organized.
6. Lighting Equipment
Lighting equipment such as strobes, softboxes, reflectors, and more can help you create the perfect atmosphere for your photos.
7. Backdrops
If you want to start a portrait photography business, you’ll need to invest in some backdrops.
8. Props
Depending on what style of photos you want to take, find some props that fit the look. Such as books, chairs, blankets, etc.
9. Laptop
In addition to a desktop computer, you may want to purchase a laptop if you frequently edit photos while away from home.
10. Editing Software
You’ll need some professional photo editing software, like Photoshop and Lightroom, to perfect your photographs.
11. Photo Printer
Investing in a photo printer would be beneficial if you plan on offering prints to your clients. If not, then finding a local printing service is another option for whenever you need to print photos for customers.
12. Smartphone with a Quality Camera
While you’ll stick to using your high-quality camera for shoots, you can use your smartphone to take behind-the-scenes content for social media. You can then leverage this content to attract attention and business to your photography company.
Before you share your smartphone photos online, download some photo editing apps to make them look nicer. Some good options are Snapseed, Lightroom CC, Scratch Photos, and Photoshop Express.
Step 2. Consider Your Niche
When you’re just starting out with your photography business, it’s vital to figure out who you’ll be shooting for.
Even if your goal is a full-service studio, understanding the ideal customer will help make sure that every aspect of running your shop – from purchasing equipment to setting up space and beyond – serves their exact needs.
Weddings are undeniably a magical time that deserves capturing in all their grandeur!
Quality photographers to do this special job, however, can be harder to come by.
If you’re looking for high-profile clientele as well as real moments of love and joy worth preserving on film – make sure you get featured with the top wedding services brands like Zola or The Knot.
After all, even Cupid needs help connecting two hearts sometimes!
Build a winning edge in your photography biz! Offer services that others don’t – just like adding an impressive touch-up package to headshots.
Partner with someone who’s amazing at makeup and you’re guaranteed stunning portraits for everyone involved.
Step 3. Conduct Market Research
Now you’re ready to start your photography business! But how?
The key is to do your research. Luckily, conducting market research for your photography business isn’t as intimidating as it might sound.
Start by talking to experienced photographers about how they got their business off the ground, go online or read magazines geared towards new entrepreneurs for advice, and get out there and network with other people in the industry.
Finding out what works and what doesn’t, who your potential clients are, and how you will stand out from the competition—these are all important components of starting a successful photography business that can only be answered through proper research.
The more data you have on hand, the better decisions you’ll be able to make when it comes to running your photography business.
This will help you gain an understanding of your target customer’s needs and wants, as well as the competitive landscape in your area.
So dig in and get started on how to start your photography business—it’s all just a few clicks away!
Step 4. Establish an Online Presence
Starting a photography business is no small feat, but with the right online presence, it can grow quickly.
If you’re ready to take your lens out of the closet and start marketing yourself, creating an online presence should be your first step.
Whether it’s flaunting your crisp photos on Instagram or promoting yourself on Facebook, getting friends and family to spread the word will get your photography career up and running in no time.
There are plenty of ways to grow your business in the digital realm.
And remember – don’t be afraid to show off your work! After all, that’s why you’re starting this journey in the first place.
The 3 Biggest Mistakes People Make When Starting Their Photography Business
1: Failing to Set a Price
Starting a photography business can be overwhelming, but the most important thing to do right off the bat is to determine how much you are going to charge for your services.
While pricing your services is often an afterthought, it’s important to remember that price-setting should be one of the first steps in developing a business plan.
Many up-and-coming photographers underestimate the initial startup costs involved, such as software subscriptions and hardware maintenance.
It’s no surprise that failing to set prices is one of the most common oversights when launching a business – but avoiding it can leave you spinning your wheels unnecessarily.
Take the time to plan out your business model holistically before taking those first vibrant shots.
2: Not Embracing Content Marketing
As a business owner, it can be easy to forget that content is just as much a part of your business success story as any other element.
Not embracing content marketing is common mistake photographers make when they are starting out – they focus on their portfolio and neglect what marketing potential is at the tips of their fingers.
Content marketing can seem intimidating – but with the right strategy, it can become an essential business tool that sets you apart from the competition and helps to generate leads and awareness.
Don’t neglect how powerful content marketing can be for photographers trying to make a name for themselves.
3: Using the “Free Shoot” Incorrectly
One business “strategy” many business owners overlook is the “Free Shoot.”
It seems like a great idea since it gets your business out there without spending a dime, but if used incorrectly, it can be catastrophic for your business and could leave you feeling anything but free.
For example, handing out too many freebies to friends and family, providing inadequate equipment and service, or working for nothing just because someone thinks you should do it will ultimately lead to feelings of frustration and dissatisfaction.
If you must accept a free photoshoot project, remember to provide quality work in the same professional manner as any other job with the expectation of appropriate compensation.
After all, what good is a business if it doesn’t make money?
FAQs
How Much Does It Cost to Start a Photography Business?
Trying to become a successful photographer is no joke – there’s a lot more involved than just booking photoshoots and pressing the shutter button!
Starting out, you’ll need to factor in the cost of a good camera and lenses, studio rental fees, props and equipment such as lighting, not to mention computer software, and other business expenses like insurance and marketing.
It can be daunting at first glance, but the upside is that you don’t have to break the bank if you take it one step at a time.
Check out online tutorials to get you familiar with photography basics, rent gear if needed instead of buying it upfront (or use what you already have in some cases), and start hunting for deals on business-related supplies (hint: some businesses are willing to offer discount rates on product purchases), and most importantly, create an effective pricing structure with payment plans that work for your clients.
Even if you don’t write off all the costs in this industry from the get-go, with a bit of fundamental research into the ins and outs of starting up your own photography business, your journey toward success can definitely pay off in the end!
What type of photography is most profitable?
If you’re into photography, chances are you’ve asked yourself at least once how to start a profitable business.
The answer depends on you – the type of photography you do, who your target audience is, and how successful you can be in marketing to those potential clients.
Portrait photography, product photography, and wedding photography definitely appear to be the most profitable types of photography out there today.
Knowing what your niche is and sticking with it will likely be the most effective way to succeed as a professional photographer.
Of course, it also takes top-notch photographic skills to produce images that please anyone’s eyes: after all, it’s quality that sells in this business.
