Very little equipment is required for starting a photography business. An individual can begin armed simply with a camera and a computer. Starting any business does, however, require preparation, ideas, and a talent for the product or service being offered. It also requires completion of any legal paperwork required of businesses in the area.
Starting a photography business will benefit from direction and focus. There will be plenty of competition, so a new photography business will need to differentiate itself from the competition. A photographer embarking on this venture should ask what makes their photos unique, what their strengths are, or what their primary photographic interest is.
Part of focusing a business idea is the business plan. It is essential to plan how the business will be set up and how it will operate. The business plan can be used to develop the budget needed for running the business, to set the prices for initial services and products, and to list costs, such as website hosting, photography equipment, and internet connection. Business plans are not finite and can be changed as the business expands or circumstances change.
A key component to starting a photography business is to set up a website. There are a vast number of website hosting options from free hosting to business packages. A website will allow the photographer to introduce the service to a wide audience. This is also a good way to begin the networking process and to earn additional money. By using advertising packages or affiliate programs, the photographer can potentially earn additional income.
Some individuals also start a weblog, or blog, as a part of a website or business. A blog is an online journal or diary entry used by individuals and businesses alike to promote work, thoughts, or opinions. A photography blog can be used to advertise some of the photos the photographer has taken; it may also be used to report photography activities or to impart advice to other photographers. Bloggers can form a community with other professionals by linking to each other’s sites and exchanging comments.
Networking is crucial to starting a photography business. Making professional and personal connections can help a photographer to garner new clients. In addition, "word of mouth," or personal recommendations, can be very important. Early connections with family and friends will often quickly widen to include a broad network when word of good services spreads.
