How to start a Photography Business
I started my photography business back in 2010. I knew from the start that I wanted it to be more than just a hobby. I was 39 years old. I just went through a pretty rough divorce. I was married for 14 years. I was in the relationship for 24 years. It is relevant because I feel there is a motivation to start anything! This is how my story begins!
My family was always in the modeling/casting industry. My ex-husband at the time was a body builder competitor for over 10 years. My girls were active in modeling and commercial work. We were cast in jobs such as Macy's, Cartoon Network, Kung Fu Panda, Turner Classics, Walmart, McDonald's, Boys and Girls Scouts of America, (where she met Michael Vick) American Girl, Hooked on Phonics, and the list went on. I ended up working for Babes N Beaus in Atlanta, Georgia. I was familiar with comp cards and dealing with photographers. I wanted my kids to continue to work and I knew that it was costly to continue.
I went to Wolf Camera in East Cobb location. I don't believe those stores are even open now. I got my first Nikon. It was D3100. I got the lighting, umbrella and tripods. At that time, I had just competed in my first Bikini Competition in the SNBF federations. I won, Miss Atlanta in October 2010. I took that opportunity and with Facebook becoming a new place to meet people; I sought the opportunity to ask other competitors if they wanted a photo session! I went after a particular group of individuals that obviously wanted to be seen. It was a very good start and gave me a lot of practice! They all knew I was just starting off my business.
Camera - I am going to start with the basics on your equipment. First, is a reliable camera. As a professional preschool photographer, I use a Nikon D500. Generally, this camera is rated top for the Wildlife Photographers. I use it because my subjects range from infants to toddlers. Also, they move fast so I have to move fast with them!
Lens - Second factor is choosing your lens. You can view the different types of lenses I have on my website here. I use the Sigma 24-105 mm for my onsite studio work. I will have to write a completely different section for the lenses I have and when I use them. For example, if you plan on being a Sports Photographer, the choice in lens for you would range from the 150-600 mm lens. You want the clarity and reach for your photos. Wedding photographers can go in with one lens while another wedding photographer will go in with two cameras and up to 5 different lenses. We all have to start, and one lens will do.
Lighting - There are so many different types of lighting to touch base on. I will tell you that I started off taking family photos and weddings with a Nikon SB-800 Speedlight. I used a Flash Diffusser Light Softbox. The size was 6x5 and it was attached to my Speedlight. I will go over in details in a different section on the reasons why and when you need to use additional lighting for certain situations.
Comments