Starting a photography business is exciting, but it comes with its share of challenges. With today’s abundance of online resources, it’s easier than ever to get guidance. However, just because you’re talented with a camera doesn’t mean you have to turn your passion into a business. If photography makes you happy as a hobby, there’s no pressure to monetize it. But if you’re ready to dive in and build a career, here’s what you need to know—along with lessons I wish I had learned when I started.
1. Find Your Niche and Target Market
Defining your niche will help you focus your efforts and attract the right clients. Do you enjoy wedding photography, family portraits, or commercial shoots? Understanding your strengths and ideal audience allows you to tailor your services and marketing strategy to stand out in the competitive market.
2. Create a Business Plan and Set Goals
Having a plan will keep you organized and on track. Your business plan should outline your niche, target market, pricing, marketing strategy, and financial goals. Don’t overthink it—a simple framework with clear objectives will do. Set measurable goals, such as booking 10 clients in your first month or increasing revenue by 20% in the next quarter, to track your progress.
3. Choose a Name and Register Your Business
Pick a business name that’s memorable and reflects your style or niche. If you can’t decide, using your own name works too. Be sure to register your business following your local regulations. In some places, you may need a “Doing Business As” (DBA) certificate or even an LLC, so research the necessary paperwork and fees. Also, check sales tax requirements to ensure you comply with any tax obligations.
4. Invest in Equipment and Software—Within Your Budget
Photography equipment can be expensive, but you don’t need to buy everything upfront. Start with essential tools, like a mid-level DSLR or mirrorless camera, a versatile lens (like a 50mm), and editing software such as Adobe Lightroom. Create a budget—whether it’s $500 or $2000—and gradually upgrade as your business grows. The goal is to avoid overspending while still having what you need to do great work.
5. Build a Portfolio and Start Marketing
Your portfolio is your business’s calling card. Start by offering discounted or free sessions to friends and family in exchange for using their photos in your portfolio. Practice is key—your first few shoots might not be perfect, but you’ll improve over time. Once you have some solid work, create a website and social media profiles to showcase your portfolio. Offer promotions or discounts to attract new clients, and network with other photographers to build relationships and gain referrals.
6. Manage Workflow and Client Relationships
As your business grows, it’s crucial to develop systems that keep things running smoothly. Many new photographers get overwhelmed when they start booking multiple clients without proper workflows in place. Software like Honeybook can streamline your business by helping you manage leads, send contracts, collect payments, and track emails. Having these processes in place early on will save you headaches later.
7. Avoid Common Payment Mistakes
Using personal payment platforms like PayPal or Venmo may seem convenient, but it’s risky. These services often side with clients in disputes, and using personal accounts for business purposes can lead to account shutdowns. To avoid these issues, switch to professional payment processors like Stripe or raise your prices slightly to cover processing fees.
8. Choose the Right Camera Gear for Your Style
Mirrorless cameras are the future of photography, so they’re a good place to start. But before committing to a specific brand, consider renting gear to see what works best for you. Canon, Nikon, Sony, and Fuji all offer great options—each with unique strengths. Keep in mind that the photographer makes the photo, not the camera. Focus on mastering your current gear before upgrading.
9. Register Your Business Properly
To make your business legitimate, start by getting an EIN (Employer Identification Number) in the U.S.—it’s like a Social Security number for your business. Depending on where you live, you may need to file for a DBA certificate, register with the Secretary of State, or even publish a business announcement in a local newspaper. Be sure to research the requirements for your area.
10. Learn Through Practice and Experimentation
When I first started, I relied mostly on trial and error. Although I watched a few YouTube videos, most of my learning came from experimenting. The more you practice, the more your skills will grow. If you’re interested in online education, there are great resources available from photographers like Katelyn James and Amy & Jordan Photography.
11. Be Ready for the Challenges of Running a Business
Starting a photography business isn’t difficult, but running it professionally requires time, effort, and planning. From managing taxes to meeting client expectations, there are many moving parts. But with the right mindset, preparation, and tools, you can turn your passion into a rewarding business.
12. Get Started with a Plan—Don’t Overthink It
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by all the steps involved, start small. Use a checklist to ensure you’ve covered the essentials. There’s no need to figure everything out at once—just focus on making steady progress.
Are you ready to launch your photography business? If you’re looking for a step-by-step guide, download the How to Start a Photography Business Checklist and keep an eye out for the 10 Day Photo Biz Startup Formula—designed to help you get your business up and running quickly!
Final Thoughts: Start Simple, Grow Over Time
Remember, starting a photography business doesn’t have to be complicated. You don’t need the most expensive gear, and you don’t have to know everything from day one. Start with what you have, practice consistently, and build your business step by step. With passion, planning, and persistence, you can turn your love for photography into a fulfilling career.