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10/16/2014 01:27:06 PM · #1 |
Hey all! I had a question for you.
I'm thinking of starting a photography business.
Granted, there are hundreds of thousands of them around now. All these people starting facebook pages, claiming to be a photographer. All these people trying and their business going under. Etc.
I am not trying to become this world-renowned photographer (though that would be great). I used to have a website and page for my photography work (I actually did some business for an MMA promoter a while back). But I have let it go (with what happened to Dallas, Photography pretty much fell to the wayside).
Anyhow, in my husband's company, he receives "incentive money" every month. This is to help motivate and reward the employees. Beyond giving them their regular paycheck, they are able to get things like gas cards. There have been raffles for televisions, gaming systems, etc. There have been times when the top performers have received a family package to the waterpark, along with a gift card to cover the cost of food, etc, while there. All kinds of things are done.
Well, I was thinking, "why not do what I love, and make money doing it?"
My thinking is that every few months, (more if possible), give away a "photo session" as an incentive.
By doing so, I will be able to make money by doing what I enjoy... AND, someone could get a photo session of their family, their children, give it away as a gift, whatever.
What are your thoughts on this?
(As in how to go about it) <---edited this portion to clarify that I'm not asking if I "should" do it... more of the steps involved since it's been so long for me.
I figured since we just moved to the area, Dallas is doing well and doesn't require 100% of my attention at all times, and I want to start my photography business back, this would be a great way to get back into the field.
Thoughts? Suggestions? Comments? Anything????
ANYTHING is appreciated!!!
Also, I would have to get this approved by the company, and I wouldn't begin doing the sessions until after the first of the year. So I have time to plan.
Message edited by author 2014-10-16 13:50:33.
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10/16/2014 01:42:23 PM · #2 |
if you asking us if you think you should, we cant answer that, we can only give advice on what works or doesn't to run a successful business.
my advice is do what you love to do, if this will bring you enjoyment than do it, just know that running a successful for money business isn't all fun, there is a lot of grundge work that someone has to do, it wont be all taking pics and editing them. |
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10/16/2014 01:45:51 PM · #3 |
Originally posted by Mike:
if you asking us if you think you should, we cant answer that, we can only give advice on what works or doesn't to run a successful business.
my advice is do what you love to do, if this will bring you enjoyment than do it, just know that running a successful for money business isn't all fun, there is a lot of grundge work that someone has to do, it wont be all taking pics and editing them. |
It's not about if you think I SHOULD. Because it's something I am wanting to do again.
It's about what I should do "step wise".
The last time I did this (for money), was over 5 years ago. I know things have changed.
I didn't know if you all had some good advice for starting a business again. (I was never officially a "business" before, I guess. Meaning that I wasn't incorporated or anything)
Such as DBA vs LLC vs INC etc,
where I should begin; any sites that have good information;
directions to point me in.
Message edited by author 2014-10-16 13:46:51.
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10/16/2014 06:36:31 PM · #4 |
Ok, first off, if you're going to go into ANY kind of business, you need to checj out the nuts and bolts stuff especially pertaining to your state. Look at things like getting a business license. Are you going to be a sole proprietorship (my fave) or go into a partnership? Are you going to join the local Chamber of Commerce? Will you carry insurance? Are you going to be incorporated?
Also of course the IRS is infamous for wanting its share of your pie. Look at pricing strategies. Look at who your competition is - are you going to try and do a bit of everything or specialize? What can you offer a client that no other photog, especially the *Facebook fauxtogs*, can't or won't? Also, how are you going to keep the business and homelife separate from each other? Trust me, this last one is mega-important.
On a more personal note, and these are just ruminations...I do agree with Mike and his do-what-you-love approach. Currently, my business is excellent at paying the bills; my clients love me, and any holes in my schedule book up fast. I don't mind what I do, but do I want to do it for the rest of my life? Hell no! But for the time being I just plug into auto mode when I'm at a client's, do the work, collect my $$ and leave. Certainly I still do a fantastic job, I have to as my reputation is built on it. But, I am able to bat around ideas for shoots while working, which helps a lot :-)
A short while ago my bf and I were batting around the idea of starting a wedding-photography business. He was much keener on the idea than I am. He's much more sociable than I am and has shot dozens of weddings on his own, I've shot only a handful and mostly as second camera.
So not only would I still be second-camera to him, or at least for awhile, but I know myself well enough to know that it would mean that, before long, I would no longer enjoy photography. That's why I hold back from trying to do it as a full-time pro.
Anyway...again, strictly my .002 CDN worth. Feel free to PM me. |
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10/16/2014 08:44:02 PM · #5 |
| I always recommend that people in your position check out publications from Nolo Press -- they have been publishing self-help books on business and the law for over 30 years. Their books (some include a CD with forms, etc.) are often available at the public library. |
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10/16/2014 11:17:44 PM · #6 |
| Go for it. Maybe part time to feel the water. Photographer here has done well shooting new borns and parents at the local hospitals. |
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