3 answers
Braileigh
Student
Earth, TX
1
Question
Updated
696 views
What was the biggest challenge about starting your own photography business, gaining loyal clients/customers, and really taking off with it?
I'm currently a senior in high school planning to attend a 4-year university. I'm planning to major in Ag Business, with a minor in Ag Communications and become a livestock photographer.
Login to comment
3 answers
David Wuerth
Freelance Photojournalist/ Sports Photographer
128
Answers
Nampa, Idaho
Updated
David’s Answer
Hey Braileigh, sounds like a very good plan. I'm not familiar with livestock photography. But, photography is photography no matter where you point your camera. I will start with basics, you must know how to use an interchangeable lens camera. I would suggest a mirrorless body and a zoom lens with a range around 24-70. There's lots of lenses in this range. I suggest mirrorless because that format is the future. The other body format is the DSLR. Learn how the camera works, what the settings do and how and why you use them. Decide who your target market will be and shoot images for that market. Create a website of your very best images; that's your portfolio.
I'd suggest visiting ranches and farms where you live and ask if you can photograph activities there. Offer images in exchange for access. These images can become the base for your website and could eventually lead to clients. This is only to give you experience and images. You do not want a reputation for free images.
I'd get some business cards. Nothing gawdy. The most prominent feature of your card is your name.
Back to marketing; you will do way more marketing than shooting. Especially as you are getting established. Keep records of anyone you have queried and their response. Get known at farm and ranch stores.
Getting a degree in AG is a great idea. One final thought; making money in the arts is difficult. Photography has to be your passion.
Best of luck!
I'd suggest visiting ranches and farms where you live and ask if you can photograph activities there. Offer images in exchange for access. These images can become the base for your website and could eventually lead to clients. This is only to give you experience and images. You do not want a reputation for free images.
I'd get some business cards. Nothing gawdy. The most prominent feature of your card is your name.
Back to marketing; you will do way more marketing than shooting. Especially as you are getting established. Keep records of anyone you have queried and their response. Get known at farm and ranch stores.
Getting a degree in AG is a great idea. One final thought; making money in the arts is difficult. Photography has to be your passion.
Best of luck!
Ying Cui
Customer Support
13
Answers
Tianjin, China
Updated
Ying’s Answer
Hi Braileigh,
Starting your own photography business can be an exciting journey, but it also presents several significant challenges. The biggest challenges often include:
1. Building a Brand and Reputation:
o Establishing a strong brand identity is crucial in the photography market, which is often saturated with competition. This involves creating a solid marketing strategy, developing a unique style, and effectively communicating what makes your services different from others.
2. Finding and Attracting Clients:
o Gaining loyal clients requires consistent effort in marketing and networking. New photographers often struggle with visibility, as clients may be unaware of the services offered. Building a portfolio, leveraging social media, attending events, and engaging in community activities can help attract potential clients.
3. Managing Finances:
o Managing the financial aspects of a new business is a challenge many entrepreneurs face. This includes budgeting for equipment, marketing expenses, licensing, insurance, and other overhead costs. Furthermore, understanding pricing strategies that reflect both the quality of work and the financial sustainability of the business is essential.
4. Perfecting Skills and Techniques:
o Continuous improvement of photography skills is crucial. This can involve investing time and resources in training, attending workshops, and staying updated with industry trends. Many photographers find it challenging to balance the artistic side of photography with the technical aspects required to produce high-quality images.
5. Building a Client Relationship:
o Developing long-term relationships with clients often requires outstanding customer service, communication skills, and the ability to manage expectations. Satisfied clients are likely to refer others, which can significantly help in building a loyal customer base.
6. Navigating Competition:
o Understanding the local competition and differentiating oneself is important. This may involve offering unique services, competitive pricing, or exceptional customer experiences.
7. Marketing and Promotion:
o Effective marketing is essential for visibility and reach. Many photographers struggle with this, especially when it comes to online marketing. Creating a user-friendly website, optimizing for search engines, utilizing social media, and potentially running advertisements can be daunting tasks for new business owners.
Each of these challenges brings opportunities for growth and learning. Overcoming them can lead to a flourishing photography business, a strong client base, and personal satisfaction.
Best Regards,
Janice
Starting your own photography business can be an exciting journey, but it also presents several significant challenges. The biggest challenges often include:
1. Building a Brand and Reputation:
o Establishing a strong brand identity is crucial in the photography market, which is often saturated with competition. This involves creating a solid marketing strategy, developing a unique style, and effectively communicating what makes your services different from others.
2. Finding and Attracting Clients:
o Gaining loyal clients requires consistent effort in marketing and networking. New photographers often struggle with visibility, as clients may be unaware of the services offered. Building a portfolio, leveraging social media, attending events, and engaging in community activities can help attract potential clients.
3. Managing Finances:
o Managing the financial aspects of a new business is a challenge many entrepreneurs face. This includes budgeting for equipment, marketing expenses, licensing, insurance, and other overhead costs. Furthermore, understanding pricing strategies that reflect both the quality of work and the financial sustainability of the business is essential.
4. Perfecting Skills and Techniques:
o Continuous improvement of photography skills is crucial. This can involve investing time and resources in training, attending workshops, and staying updated with industry trends. Many photographers find it challenging to balance the artistic side of photography with the technical aspects required to produce high-quality images.
5. Building a Client Relationship:
o Developing long-term relationships with clients often requires outstanding customer service, communication skills, and the ability to manage expectations. Satisfied clients are likely to refer others, which can significantly help in building a loyal customer base.
6. Navigating Competition:
o Understanding the local competition and differentiating oneself is important. This may involve offering unique services, competitive pricing, or exceptional customer experiences.
7. Marketing and Promotion:
o Effective marketing is essential for visibility and reach. Many photographers struggle with this, especially when it comes to online marketing. Creating a user-friendly website, optimizing for search engines, utilizing social media, and potentially running advertisements can be daunting tasks for new business owners.
Each of these challenges brings opportunities for growth and learning. Overcoming them can lead to a flourishing photography business, a strong client base, and personal satisfaction.
Best Regards,
Janice
Emanuel Simien
Collection Analyst
4
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Emanuel’s Answer
Effectively marketing your photography is a crucial element. In today's digital era, having a robust online presence can elevate your business significantly. This involves maintaining active profiles on social media, developing a professional website, and possibly investing in online advertising strategies. Engaging content paired with consistent updates keeps your audience interested and engaged with your work.