I have not been in the business long, but I think that means I have something to offer anyone else trying to get started! I’m in the trenches with you, figuring this all out, and my memory is fresh when it comes to what got me off the ground running. I hope some of these tips are helpful to you and wish you the best of luck as you begin your business!
Work for Free
Don’t put pressure on yourself to have high-paying clients. You need to work for free. Build that portfolio! Take on the project you’re unsure about or feel you may not be ready for. The best way to learn is to just get out there and try. As you work more and more and harder and harder, you’ll see your skills blossom and your portfolio grow.
Rent Lenses
Don’t go out and buy every lens you think you may need. I recommend starting with a 50mm prime and renting various lenses here and there for bigger shoots or events. You can also always purchase used. There’s just no need to over invest in the beginning as you figure out your style, because every photographer has their own opinions and preferences on lenses.
Website!!!
Build. Your. Website. Your website is your storefront. Invest in it. Take the time and money. Have you ever heard to dress for the job you want, not the job you have? That’s the same logic. The more “legit” you look, the more professional you’ll feel and that will impact your confidence and appearance to potential clients. Take yourself seriously!
Be Clear
Have clear policies from the get-go. How will you handle late clients? When are payments due? Know how you’re going to handle all these sorts of issues and get it down to writing. There is nothing wrong or controversial about being clear to people who want to hire you. In fact, the more concise and clear you are, the more professional you will look!
Client Management
Invest (make your own database or use something like Honeybook) in a good client management program. I used a homemade excel sheet at first. Just make sure you have a way to keep track of everything your business has going on!
These are the biggest things that helped me go from free shoots to booking clients who pay the average price for my area within six months. I hope it helps you!!
Emily
