You’re probably reading this article because someone told you you could take great photos and should start your own business. Although it’s thrilling to consider making your passion your full-time job, here are some things you must remember before you leap headfirst into this venture.
1. Imagine yourself as a business owner
Although it’s exciting to consider becoming a photographer, have you ever considered starting your own business? Most people must know that photography accounts for only 10%-20% of their time. The rest of your time is spent working on your business, at least 80%. These tasks can include creating marketing materials, handling customers who are unhappy, and updating your website.
This is something you should think about if you haven’t already. Are you happy to keep track of sales and taxes? Do you enjoy creating marketing materials for your business? What would you love to answer customer questions, even the unpleasant ones? These are all part of running a business and part of a photographer’s job.
2. Consider what type of photography business you would like to start.
You may be thinking about starting a photography company. I know you love taking photos, but what do you enjoy taking pictures of? You can choose to focus on many specialties in the world of photography. There are many specialties, including senior, newborn, and sports photography.
It is encouraged to choose a specialization or one area of expertise. This will make it much easier to target your market and advertise to them. It can be hard to decide what your favorite thing is to shoot. It is important to take the time to reflect on what you enjoy photographing.
3. Time and money are interrelated.
This is another aspect of the business that can be easy to remember. Write down all business expenses you anticipate needing to start your business. These expenses could include website domain, website hosting, and logo design. You are filing with the state, samples, software, etc. It’s better to have an idea of the cost before you start a business.
Considering how much time you will spend working on and in your new business is equally important. It can take a lot of time to start a business if you have a job and want to create your own photography business. It is important to establish limits on how much time you will work. It is easy to lose sight of the important things in life and neglect your loved ones and family. This business will require you to put in more time than you think.
4. Ask other business owners what their personal lives are like.
Talk to small business owners in your local area to get a true perspective on the business ownership process. You don’t have to be a professional photographer. However, their insight will be invaluable. Any business owner can offer an honest view of what it’s like. Ask them to take you out for lunch and get their opinions. Ask them about their typical day as business owners. Which are their most and least favorite aspects of owning a company? What would they change if they could do it again? You can learn a lot from their opinions and thoughts to help you decide if this is right for you.
5. Create a business plan
Now you know what you need to do, how much time you will have to put in, what you might face, and what type of photography you want to create. It is time to start thinking about the business plan. This is the last step in building your company. This is the most important step in growing and developing your business.
A business plan is a statement of goals and reasons for them being achievable. It also includes a plan to achieve those goals. The program often provides background information about the team or organization trying to achieve those goals. My business plan for Green Tree Media Photography is: “Green Tree Media Photography preserves memories and captures the soul and essence of families, seniors, newborns, and couples. Our clients are our greatest asset. We build relationships with them and provide exceptional care. We also create beautiful artwork pieces for their homes and walls. This allows us to thrive and maintain a healthy and strong relationship with our loved ones. “
As you can see, I have outlined my photography interests, the type and method of service I will provide, and how I intend to do it. My husband and family are very important to me, so I included them in my business plans. It serves as a constant reminder of where I am heading, what I need, and what is most important. While your business plan will change with your company, it is still very beneficial to have a business plan before you start the game.
