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There is not a shortage of photographers in the market place. But there is a shortage of photographers that know how to start a business right and run their photography business without making price their #1 competitive advantage by being the cheapest photographer in the market.

Buying a $699 camera body and lens kit, getting business card printed, being active on social media and doing family sessions for $60 is not a long term sustainable business model. There is a reason full time pros use professional gear and there is a reason that full time pros charge $600 for the same thing a newbie charges $60 for.

I have gathered some links that I will share at the end of this blog post. However, I have not read everything word for word nor am I saying that 100% of what is being said is correct. As you know, you can find lots of information on the internet and not all of it is good. Therefore, please treat the links that I am sharing with a “grain of salt” and do you homework far beyond this post.

Here are 7 quick tips to get you started. These are not the only 7 things to consider:

1) Do some planning by actually putting goals in writing.

2) Create a marketing plan by writing down how you plan to get business.

3) Don’t be the cheapest photographer in town. There is always someone cheaper. Low prices will put you out of business.

4) You need business insurance: Liability and Equipment. Ask your auto insurance agent if he/she offers it for photographers.

5) Set up your business properly with license, bank account, accountant, attorney, etc. Skip this step and you are asking for trouble.

6) Invest in the right equipment. A $699 kit does NOT make you a photographer.

7) Get some training. Whether you use YouTube, KelbyOne or other resources, please get some training.

Below are some additional links to information that should prove helpful:

This is my favorite one: 20 MYTHS ABOUT BECOMING A PRO PHOTOGRAPHER (AND THEIR SOLUTIONS!)

This one gives some solid info: How Much Does It Cost To Start a Photography Business?

Here’s a two part post:

26 Things I Wish I’d Known Before Starting My Photography Business // Part 1

26 Things I Wish I’d Known Before Starting My Photography Business // Part 2

Here’s one final resource that may be helpful:

5 Tips for Growing Your Photography Business in a New Area

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David Williams

Owner at RTP Photo and Video, Inc.

Short Bio About The Author: I'm David Williams a professional commercial photographer focusing on corporate and business clients with some personal branding, lifestyle photography in the mix. My love for photography began in late 1981 while still in High School. I started making money with his camera in 1982. Brenda, my wife, and I started working together in photography in 1988 shortly after we met. Brenda and I married in 1989 and have two adult daughters. Please be sure to get a quote for services if needed. Call or Text: 919.723.8453. Please reach out to connect with me on LinkedIn.

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