COMMERCIAL PHOTOGRAPHY BUSINESS PLAN SAMPLE

There are lots of opportunities for aspiring photographers to sell their images. Most photographers first start out as a hobby. This later develops into a income generating venture. You too can become a professional photographer.

Some of the things you need to know are contained within this starting a photography business article. It includes the equipment you need to have as well as the steps you should take to bring your desire to fruition.

Here is a sample business plan for starting a freelance photography business.

What Niche are you interested in?

This is of paramount importance when starting out as a photographer. It is also interesting to know that there are several niches to choose from.

A few of these include Abstract photography (painting-like photos/images), aerial photography, animal, architectural, automotive, bourdoir portraits, business headshots, celebrity portraits, corporate events, drone photography, fashion photography and many more.

These are just a few of the tons of photography niches you can choose from. The most important thing is knowing where your specific interest lies and following that interest to bring it to reality.

Getting the Right Photography Equipment for the Job

When starting a photography business, it is necessary to obtain the right equipment. There are several photography business equipments you need. Funding determines how equipped you are for this business. It is a capital intensive business that requires that you obtain the necessary gear.

Some of these pieces of equipment include the following;

  • Getting a Good Camera

This is one of the primary pieces of equipment you need. Investing in a good camera is essential to getting the best results. Because there are several options available for you to choose from, you need to find out which is best for your niche. Researching on the best model for your niche is necessary. Professional cameras can go between $3,000 to tens of thousands of dollars.

The cost of professional cameras is higher than normal or entry-level cameras because they are more durable and are built to last. Also, they give you higher quality pictures than most ordinary cameras.

  • Camera Lenses

Lenses are an essential part of the business. These bring depth and clarity to your images. You have several good options to choose from when selecting a lens. The more you know about your niche, the better lenses you get for the job.

  • Camera Bag

These are designed to safely store your camera. It extends the life of your camera as well as keeps it from damage.

  • Tripod

When taking a photo, you want your camera to be as stable as possible. This allows you to get the perfect shot. This is what makes tripods necessary when starting a photography business.

  • Props

Props are used in photography to add character and context to a scene. Your area of specialization or niche will determine how much you need this equipment as well as the type you choose. Conceptual photography for instance are impossible without props.

  • Lighting

Lighting in photography is manipulated in such a way as to bring colour vibrancy to your images. These lighting equipment include Oktobox, Monolight, Stripbox, Strobe lights and many more. You need to find out which is best for your specific needs as a photographer.

  • Getting a Studio Space

Obtaining a studio space is one of the most important aspects of starting a photography business. The cost of a studio space can vary widely based on several factors. One of such is location. This will contribute to the overall costs of starting this business.

  • Backdrops

Different types of photos require different backdrops. In creating or purchasing one, you need to consider the type of photos you will be taking. Broad categories include portrait and studio photography.

  • Smartphones with Excellent Cameras

After buying a professional camera, do I really need this? This is a question that may be asked by many, and the answer to this question is a resounding yes! We live in a period where the use of social media by individuals and businesses has become pervasive. You can easily share your photos on social media sites using your smartphone to capture behind the scene shots.

  • Efficient Transportation

Outdoor photography or engagements require moving around stress-free! Your preferred transport system (likely a car meant for this purpose) should be able to carry all your gear without problems.

  • Picture Editing Software

This is a requirement for any serious photography business. These are programs that enable you correct and fine-tune your photos. One of the most popular software used for this is Photoshop. It makes your work much easier and gives you greater control in determining how your photos look.

  • A Computer

Of course you cannot use a photo editing software without the computer. The computer is indispensable for your photography business.

  • Cloud Service

Before its advent, businesses and individuals depended on external storage devices to backup their data. However, all this has changed with cloud services. People can now back up and access their files easily on the go. There are several cloud services you can subscribe to for your photography business.

  • Payment Platform

This is very important for your photography business. People needing your services can conveniently pay online to download your stock photos or get their pictures taken.

The Cost of Starting your Photography Business

The cost implications for a photography business depend on a lot of variables. One of such is the scale and type of photography you intend to start. There is no exact or fixed amount that can be given, however, you can start with $10,000 for a portrait photography business.

This can be significantly higher if you want a bigger and more complex studio. In such situations, the cost can be as high as $100,000 or more.

  • Protect Your Business by Getting an Insurance Cover

While spending money to get your equipment, it is also necessary to protect same from damage or theft. This is through obtaining a business insurance that covers your business. It enables you recover immediately after a disaster.

Starting a photography business depends on a lot of things. Some of these include preparing a business plan, registering your business, obtaining a license and many more. However above all, you need to be driven by passion.

This alone will sustain you during the hard times.

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