usaellie101 wrote:
I have been known as my family photog for a few years now. I do not have a lot of capital to invest in any fancy cameras but I have been told my photos capture the heart of the subjects. Recently I have been asked for my business card and how much I charge. All my friends are telling me to just take the pludge and go in to a small business.
I have a Nikon D5100 and a Pentax PZ-1p film camera, a good tripod and a few stobes. at the moent that is all I can afford.
Question : How do I charge? A friend told me her daughter paid $200 for a woman to take photos of a child's Birthday party and if her daughter wanted the photos edited (photoshopped) she would have to pay extra and printing was extra also?
Can anyone tell me how to get started? I do not expect to make a lot of money but would be happy just a few dollars. I do feel self conscious asking for money since I do not consider myself an " Edward Steiken".
Advice requested here...
I have been known as my family photog for a few ye... (
show quote)
Where to start? As part of my retirement from 40 years of being self employed in various business enterprises, I now mentor young (and some not so young) businesses on a voluntary basis. Often people with exactly the scenario you propose (but not a photographer so far).
How do I turn my hobby into an income stream?
Assuming you are not going to do this full-time and rely on the income to support your family and lifestyle, there is a lot of good information already posted but first you must look at your qualifications.
Are you a more than competent tradesman? (Photographer)
How do your results compare to others in your town/city?
Do you have the Capital (money) to invest in your business? (most business fail due to a lack of 'Start-Up Capital).
And the most important qualification -- do you have a PASSION for the business?
Unless you can answer YES to all these questions I wouldnt be recommending you go any further.
If you can answer yes, then the next step is to seriously research and study as many other similar businesses in your area as you can.
However, from the tone of your question, personally, I dont think you are ready to take the plunge. Well meaning friends and family are not the most reliable of references.
I would suggest you continue as you are, talk to Professional Photographers in your area (if the environment is similar to here in NZ, they will be happy to advise you), save spare income for Start-Up Capital and research, research, research. Find an area you enjoy and are passionate about and specialise in that area. Become an exceptional photographer and learn the trade.
Then of course you need to become a Businessman as well. But that is a whole other subject.
Would be interested to hear what you decide and see where you are in 12 months or so. Good luck. ('Luck' - the residue of good management:))