Starting a photography business can be a rewarding experience, allowing you to turn your passion into a source of income. But where do you start? There are necessary steps to take, from purchasing the right equipment to establishing a strong online presence.
Coming to you from Photography John Branch IV, this informative video provides a comprehensive guide to starting your photography business. Branch, a seasoned wedding photographer, emphasizes the importance of starting with minimal equipment to minimize the initial investment. He suggested two camera body (ideally the same model for muscle memory), one option prime lens (24mm, 35mm, 50mm and 85mm), enough storage (SanDisk SD Card and SSD) and two flicker with modifications.
Branch emphasizes that mastering the camera and creating high-quality photos is more important than the specific equipment you use. He recommends practicing street photography to develop your skills and anticipate your moments. He also advises against offering free shoots unless it’s a valuable opportunity, emphasizing the importance of valuing your time and expertise. As you gain experience, Branch recommends that you identify your niche and focus on developing the specialized skills needed for that field.
Once you have a solid foundation in photography, Branch recommends establishing a strong online presence. This involves creating a website. He emphasizes the importance of showcasing the right location on your website to attract the right customer base. In addition, he emphasized the importance of social networks for networking and community engagement. By tagging vendors and collaborators in your posts, you can expand your reach and attract potential customers.
Branch also emphasizes the importance of streamlining your business operations for efficiency and profitability. He recommends using a CRM to manage customer interactions, automate emails, and handle contracts. Branch also highlights the benefits of AI curation and editing services, which can significantly reduce editing time and allow you to attract more customers. Finally, Branch suggests using online galleries like Picktime to professionally source photos, automate album building, and facilitate print sales. Watch the video above for the full rundown from Branch.
