Looking to Start Your own Photography Business?

Starting Your Photography Journey

Getting started as professional photographer is an exciting adventure. It’s perfectly normal to feel both exhilarated and a bit overwhelmed at the beginning. Take a deep breath and know that every seasoned photographer was once right where you are now. And if you care, the feels you are having never really go away. Photography is a craft that you’ll refine over time, and this article is here to help you kickstart your journey on the right foot.

Photography is More Than Just Gear

While gear is undoubtedly important, remember that photography is about more than just the tools you use. It’s about your passion, your unique perspective, and the stories you can tell through your lens. Don’t stress if you can’t afford top-tier equipment right from the start. Start with what you have, hone your skills, and invest in gear as your photography business grows.

Finding Your Photography Style

As a newbie, you might be wondering, “What’s my photography style?” That’s a fantastic question. It’s okay not to have it all figured out yet. Experiment with different types of photography, from portraits to landscapes, and explore various editing techniques. Your style will naturally evolve as you gain experience and discover what truly resonates with you. You may at first be tempted to try and emulate your favorite artists, I say go for it! You are only going to learn from it. Eventually however, use what you learn to create and refine your own personal look.

Building Client Relationships

Photography isn’t just about taking pictures; it’s also about connecting with people and capturing their most cherished moments. Building strong client relationships is key to your success. Be approachable, honest, attentive, and a good communicator. Your clients will appreciate not only your skills but also your professionalism and friendly demeanor.

Don’t Fear Mistakes

In the world of photography, mistakes are inevitable, especially when you’re just starting. Embrace them as opportunities to learn and grow. Potential customers should be made aware of where you are at technically so they can make an informed decision. Don’t be discouraged by imperfect shots or technical hiccups. Every mistake is a step towards improvement. Keep practicing, and you’ll see your skills soar. Fail your way up my friend!

Getting Your Photography Business in Order

Once you are confident in your skills, and before you start charging customers for your services, there is some housekeeping to do. Get started setting up your legal business entity as a professional photographer is just one of them! Check out this Photography 101 blog post about setting yourself up for success as you get started. It discusses finding your niche, and going after your target market, and legally registering your business entity. So many thing to do, am I right??!!

The Fastest Way to Grow as a Photographer?

Print Your Photos!

As a professional photographer, I can’t stress enough how crucial it is to print your photos. It is so important I wrote a whole blog post about it! When you hold a tangible print in your hands, you’re experiencing your work in its truest form. The depth, texture, and colors come to life in a way that no screen can replicate. It’s a fascinating journey from capturing the image on your camera, editing it on your computer, and finally seeing it in print. You’ll quickly realize that colors and tones may shift slightly between these stages, teaching you valuable lessons about color management and the intricacies of the printing process.

Not only does printing your photos preserve your art, but it also allows you to create stunning portfolios, showcase your talent, and provide your clients with actual, real, tangible memories. You’ll discover that certain images shine even brighter in print, while others may require adjustments to achieve the desired results. Some will only look good small, and others will beg to be printed extra large. This hands-on experience will enhance your editing skills as you gain a deeper understanding of how to optimize your images for print. Trust me, you don’t want to miss out on the incredible feeling of seeing your photos in print—it’s powerful tool for continuous improvement.

Now where should you get your prints from ?

Essential Camera Gear

When it comes to delivering professional-quality work for your clients, having the right camera gear is an absolute must for getting started as a photographer. Your camera and lenses are your artistic tools, and investing in high-quality equipment ensures you can capture every moment with precision and creativity. Whether you’re shooting weddings, family portraits, or any special occasion, the right gear empowers you to exceed your client’s expectations. Trust me, making the right choices in your camera setup will not only elevate your photography but also boost your confidence in delivering outstanding results. Your clients deserve nothing less than the best, and having the right gear is the first step to achieving that.

Create Your Own Light

When it comes to photography, light is everything. Yes, it is wonderful when Mother Nature provides for our needs. But having the right gear to create and shape your own light, regardless of ambient conditions, is a game-changer.

Mastering the art of flash photography allows you to take control of your lighting, ensuring your subjects always look their best. Whether you’re shooting indoors, at night, or in challenging weather, the ability to shape light gives you endless creative possibilities.

Learning how to use your strobes effectively and shape light to your will will set you apart as a photographer and open up a world of exciting opportunities to capture stunning images in any situation.

Don’t let unpredictable lighting hold you back—embrace the power bouncing light around in a controlled way, and watch your photography skills soar!

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Editing, and Presenting Your Images

Editing and presenting your images is where the magic truly happens in photography. Software like Lightroom and Photoshop is your digital darkroom, where you refine your shots, enhance colors, and bring out the full potential of your photographs. It’s where you refine great photography into breathtaking art.

But it doesn’t stop there. Your website is your online portfolio, where you showcase your talent to the world. It’s not just about sharing pictures; it’s about telling stories through your work. With the right tools and platforms, you can captivate, leave a lasting impression, and turn visitors into clients.

Embrace these tools, and get learning.

Photography Business Management

Running a photography business isn’t just about taking stunning photos; it’s about managing the entire operation smoothly.

Whether you’re looking to promote your work through PR distribution, safeguard your business with legal services, or maintain strong client relationships with CRM tools, these elements are crucial to your success.

PR distribution can help you reach a wider audience, attracting potential clients and media attention. Legal services ensure your photography business is protected, and you’re operating within the bounds of the law. And CRM tools? Well, they’re the backbone of client satisfaction and long-term partnerships.

So, as you get started as a professional photographer, remember that it’s not just about the art; it’s about the business too. Embrace these business management tools, get yourself organized and automated, and you’ll be well on your way to building a thriving and sustainable photography venture.

And Finally, Stay Inspired!

Photography is a lifelong journey of learning and inspiration. Don’t hesitate to explore workshops, online courses, and photography communities. Connecting with fellow photographers, both newcomers and seasoned pros, can provide valuable insights and support along the way.

Have Fun Getting Started as a Professional Photographer!

Remember, getting started as a professional photographer is a marathon, not a sprint. The journey is an ever-evolving one. Whether you’re just starting or have years of experience, there’s always something new to discover.

I hope the tools and recommendations I’ve shared here guide you on your photography adventure. Here’s to capturing incredible moments, building a thriving business, and always finding inspiration through the lens. Stay curious and never stop seeking inspiration! – Jen