Starting a photography business is so much more than taking a few pictures and posting your work and services on social media. If you’re a hobby photographer beginning to book real paying clients then there’s a few things you should know first. After I graduated with a major in photojournalism, I was so eager to begin shooting that I forgot to get things organized on the business swing of things, and didn’t have a solid marketing strategy, which resulted in a lot of extra work later in my business. In the beginning stages I was also focusing on growing my clientele and figuring out what it was that really lit me up about photography and discovering what I loved to shoot, this meant it took me longer to get into the groove of things.

Learn from my mistakes and set yourself up for success as soon as you make the decision to get started, then you can hit the ground running. Here are 5 things I wish I knew sooner when starting a photography business:

Set your business up legally

If setting up your business legally scares you, you’re not alone but as your business grows, I can assure you that you’ll be so happy that you did. It will be less stressful to figure this out now rather than when you’re in full swing.

Now none of this is legal advice, but first you’ll need to determine your business entity based on your business size. If you plan on working for yourself, you can start as a sole proprietorship. As your business grows, you may need to re-evaluate. From here, you can register for a PST number (in Saskatchewan), and a GST number down the line. A GST number in Canada isn’t required for businesses until you’ve reached $30,000 in sales. Next, register your business name through the ISC website. Once you have all of these steps completed, work with an accountant to figure out how to organize your income so that when tax time comes, there are no huge surprises. After you meet with your accountant, begin to separate your personal versus business finances by setting up separate accounts for each of them. This will also help you simplify your expenses for bookkeeping. Lastly, register your business name before you purchase a domain, or begin establishing your business and brand online. If the business name you’ve been thinking of is taken you will run into issues.

This advice is based on my own experience as a wedding photographer in Saskatchewan, Canada so be sure to do your own research and look into what you need to do to make it legal based on where you’re living/working so that you’re set up for success.

Use a contract for every single session

This may go without saying but even if you’re shooting friends and family, ensure that you’re covered in every aspect by using a client contract. This is where you will outline the length of the session, and what your clients can expect from you so there’s no gray area when it comes to delivering the final product. It also clearly states your responsibilities as the photographer and any additional expenses incurred by the client such as travel, accommodations, location, etc.

Apart from legally covering you in the event a situation arises, it also helps to create a level of professionalism from you as the business owner. Here are a few things you need in your contract when sending to potential clients:

Names of both parties
Clear outline of the service you’re providing
Photographer and client responsibilities
Payment details and/or a payment plan
Copyright
Usage on social media and online
Client waiver/liability
Cancellation or rescheduling policy

I use Honeybook as a client management software to help me organize all of my projects, send invoices, collect payments, upload clients, send contracts and so much more. They also have pre-made contracts that you can customize to your preferences to help make the process super easy. If you are interested in trying Honeybook for your first year at a very discounted price, follow this link here.

It’s okay to shoot for free or at a discounted price

Hear me out on this one. When I started my photography business, I moved a province over to a city where I knew no one. I was able to grow my business by offering sessions for free or at a very discounted rate in order to grow my portfolio. I was naive to think that just because my technical camera skills were great that people would be knocking down my door. We all start somewhere and it’s okay to exchange your time in order to become a better, and more experienced photographer with a portfolio that speaks for your work!

As the demand for your services grows, then you can begin to raise your prices. It’s so important that you treat all clients equally, regardless if they are paying you $100 or $500. Don’t worry about how much or little you’re making and instead focus on giving them a great experience. When your clients have a memorable and pleasant experience with you they are sure to rave about it to their friends and family, too. Which is a win-win!

Stop worrying about what other people think of you

In a sea of other photographers, it can be hard to find your own way without the crushing self-doubt and imposter syndrome creeping in. Here’s a hard truth that you might need to hear.. There’s always going to be someone else out there who's doing what you’re doing. But here’s the key, you are unique and nobody can replicate the exact process and client experience that you provide for your clients. Find what makes you stand out, and build a brand that infuses your personality and signature touch. The people who resonate with you and what you’re offering, will find you. Don’t let the fear of what other people think hold you back from reaching your potential!

Never stop learning

As a photographer and business owner, it’s so important to continue to seek inspiration and to actively pursue the business you’ve been dreaming of. You can do this by investing in education, attending workshops or webinars, and my personal favorite way to learn is through podcasts. If you’re not in a place in your business to make a huge investment, go and find all the free education and guides out there and dive in.

Every year I make time to review how the previous year unfolded, and make changes. Because let’s be honest, as creatives we are constantly evolving. If you notice for example that shooting in harsh light scares you, then make an effort to practice it so that you’re more comfortable. As photographers, we always have slower seasons in which we aren’t shooting as much as we normally would, this is the time to learn new things and step outside of your comfort zone.

This will be a journey for you that takes time, as well as a lot of patience, and learning along the way. Which is exactly why I created an educational resource for photographers like you! The Complete Guide to Going Full-Time With Photography will guide you through starting your business, in this guide I outline the exact blueprint I used to grow a successful photography business and become booked out.

The Complete Guide to Going Full-Time With Photography is a step by step guide that walks you through growing your business, establishing a brand, booking paid clients and so much more. So if you’re looking for something more after (hopefully) feeling inspired by this blog, go check it out inside my shop. It is the perfect next step for you!