Build A Successful Portrait Photography Business Report

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How to Build a Successful Portrait Photography Business
By Lizzie D Kimball | Submitted On May 09, 2012

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Expert Author Lizzie D Kimball
Starting a successful photography business from the ground up can be challenging. However, with these tips you can be well on your way to starting a successful portrait photography business!

First thing's first: you will need a camera. I recommend starting out with a digital SLR (dSLR) …show more content…

If you want to run a successful business and produce images prospective clients are willing pay for, you will need to take your camera off of "auto" mode and learn how to control the settings yourself in manual mode. I have found online search engines and photography forums the best places to learn how to use your camera in manual mode. Additionally, many professional photographers write photography tips and FAQ blog posts, so do an online search and visit the blogs and websites of local portrait photographers to get an inside scoop on how to use your camera. Several photographers teach workshops and/or offer mentor sessions, so contact your favorite photographers via email to see if they are willing to provide a mentor session or workshop to assist your …show more content…

Search for the requirements to legally run a business in your city and state. You will need a business license, sales tax license, and fulfill all requirements set forth by your city and state. Make sure all of your licenses are approved before starting your business!

Optional: protect yourself and your equipment. As a business owner, it's smart to protect you and your assets. Once your business is legal, protect yourself by purchasing business liability and equipment insurance. This covers you if your client trips and falls during the portrait shoot and lands in the hospital (potential lawsuit!) or if your precious new lens crashes to the ground during a lens change. You wouldn't want to start a business just to go bankrupt, thus, this optional step is highly recommended to be

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