Recommendations from photography business owners around the world
I would simply advise you to learn the basics of business, marketing and how to manage your career, before completely jumping in with both feet and eyes closed. A lot of photographers start out with great intentions, but don’t know the first thing about how to actually run a business. Getting a studio space right off the bat, and going into debt is not a good place to start. I would also urge you to find other photographers who have well-established businesses, who are willing to mentor you either for free or through paid workshops. Soak in all the knowledge they have to offer…they are successful for a reason! Books are also very helpful! I’m currently hooked on a book called Tribes, written by Seth Godin…great book! Most if all, take a deep breath, and believe in yourself! You’ve got this!! XOXO
– Forever XO Studio, ID, USA
Work hard! It can be very frustrating trying to get your name out there, but I find if you keep working hard and don’t give up you will find success!
– Rogan Photography, NY, USA
Do as much as you can to get your name out there. Do free work when you have the time in order to build connections. Learn about marketing, blogging, and website SEO. Beginning is always the hardest, but you will gain momentum. While it’s important to work hard, it’s vital to manage your time and allow for sufficient eating, sleep, and exercise habits. Without proper care for your body and mind, you risk burning-out and not working effectively. Additionally, be open with your advice. The more you become protective of your product, your style, and your ideas – the more you risk cutting yourself off from the creative ideas of others. You have your own distinct style which no one can really copy. Be accessible and you will grow.
– Steve Sherk Photography, Korea
School is good but almost always on paper, work as an intern or apprentice in your field. Be a sponge and [soak] up all info you can take in. After you start up, mistakes will be made, you will sometimes feel like you made a mistake taking this step but trust me, you learn and grow from it.
– Hannah Karlberg Photography, Sweden
My advice to anyone getting into this business is to be passionate and love it. Specialize and create a consistent look, brand yourself, but know that you must wear a few other hats to keep the money flowing. I learned that zeroing in on what I really liked doing and immersing myself in that world, has kept the momentum going. Continue to study your craft, do your exercises, respect and love this industry and believe in yourself.
– Just Headshots LA, CA, USA
Any advice I would give to someone who wants to start a business like this would be just to do it and don’t wait around for the perfect moment. Make a website to showcase your work because people always want to see your previous work. Also, sometimes it’s hard to explain the amount of work that goes into being a photographer, and hard to get people to see your worth but don’t ever sell yourself short.
– Danielle King Photography, NY, USA
