If you love the art and science of photography, a small
photography business could be a dream job. To be a successful photographer
you'll need to do much more than take good pictures. Managing the business side
of photography is just as important as capturing stellar images, and if you
can't manage your finances and your employees, your business won't succeed.
Finances and Taxes
You'll have to manage your finances carefully, and this may
mean incorporating your business and setting up a checking account in the
business's name. You might also need to take out a small business loan to get
the start-up capital you need. You have to pay taxes on everything you earn,
and freelancers typically pay higher taxes because an employer is not
contributing to Social Security and Medicare. Get an accountant to help you
determine your effective tax rate, and set money aside for taxes.
Staff
If you plan to hire a staff, ensure you choose the most
competent, friendly people you can find rather than simply erring on the side
of cheap labor. An ornery receptionist can alienate your customers, and a
mediocre back-up photographer can hurt your business. Establish contracts,
clear payment agreements and a strong working rapport with your staff, but
don't be afraid to lead. You'll need to ensure your staff lives up to its promises
and be prepared to teach new staffers about the business.
Advertising
No matter how good your photos are, you won't get customers
if no one knows about you. Good advertising is an important key for managing
your business. Use advertising campaigns that target your demographic of
choice. A wedding photographer, for example, might advertise on wedding blogs
or near bridal stores. Search engine advertising, blogs, social networking and
traditional print advertising can all help your business succeed.
Business Etiquette
Business etiquette can help you excel. No matter what
happens, always remain professional. Never lose your temper with clients or
express any hostility if you don't get a contract. Business etiquette can also
help you manage clients with unrealistic expectations. For example, if a client
wants you to come to her house to help her set up the living room in
preparation for a photography shoot, keeping professionalism in mind can guide
your response. You might say something like, "I'd love to help you, but
because this was not part of our original contract, I'll need to charge my
standard hourly rate, plus travel time."
Legal Issues
Depending upon where and what you photograph, you might need
liability insurance. If, for example, you accidentally break something during a
wedding, liability insurance will cover the damages, and some wedding venues
require photographers to carry insurance. You'll also need to develop standard
contracts for your business. These contracts establish the terms under which
you and your employees will work, and can protect you from customers who try to
skip out on their payment obligations. A contract also sets clear expectations
at the beginning of a relationship and can save you the stress of having to
explain your policies repeatedly to your clients.
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