Reply To: Common Mistakes? CC

[IHF]

I’m going to  answer your questions without looking at your work, because with what you are asking, I think it’s irrelevant.

If you feel you need to work on your photography and it’s not up to par with what people will want to pay for, and you have been told by photographers that you need to work more on your technical skills, shooting for others will hinder you, not help.  Stop taking clients, and shoot for yourself only, until your work is consistent in quality, and it’s confirmed by  your photography peers.

If you feel you are ready to take on starting a business here are a few links for you

 
What is a fauxtographer
http://www.takeoffyourmommygoggles.com/consumers/what-is-a-fauxtographer-2/

Going into business
http://shuttercliq.com/listings/the-shuttercliq-10-step-guide-to-starting-a-photography-business/

http://www.zenologue.com/blog/2012/01/how-to-start-a-photography-business/

Cost of business calculator

http://www.nppa.org/professional_development/business_practices/cdb/cdbcalc.cfm

Pricing
http://www.mcpactions.com/blog/2009/10/12/how-should-i-price-my-photography-words-of-advice-from-jodie-otte/

http://currentphotographer.com/understanding-the-art-of-pricing-your-photography-by-deborah-kaufman/

if just a hobby income is what you are after, and you just want to support your addiction.  Keep in mind that ALL hobbiests (not just photographers) that provide a service and/or product also take into consideration their time, their skill, and the cost of delivering the product to their customers.  What we do has value, and it’s worth more than just pennies.  So get over the insecuries of charging, figure out what your photographs are worth by using the calculator, and be secure in it.
The catch 22 is there are literally thousands upon thousands of people just like you out there that haven’t taken the time to figure out what their photography is worth and are perfectly happy working for peanuts.  It’s a crazy time for anyone wanting to be a tog for hire.

Things to think about.  Insurance, and tax Id are a must.  Did you know that if you use your camera to make money, it will not be covered by most personal insurance? even hobby income is considered income?  Eventually you will have to upgrade your equipment (sooner than later if you are making that many actuations each session), and keep it maintained, and this should reflect in your prices.  What if your camera Takes a dump?  Oops! Outta business.  Back up cameras, lighting, etc all are very important expenses to concider, that not many ever do.  Photography isn’t free, so don’t charge like it is, if you are serious about making a go of it.  Good luck! 🙂