5 Tips for Starting a Digital Photography Business

These days, with all the cool new digital cameras and cutting edge photo editing software on the market, there is a lot you can do with a simple picture. Really, you are only limited by your imagination. What’s even more is that you can take your hobby of creative digital photography and actually make money with it. If you are interested in capitalizing on your photographic excellence, then there are some very simple steps you can take to get serious. Here are five tips for starting a digital photography business:

Web presence. This is true for any business these days, but especially true for the digital photography niche. You absolutely must establish a presence on the Internet. The web will not only be an integral part of your marketing, but it can also be your store - open all hours of the day and night, making money even while you sleep. Set up a website (hire a professional for this if it’s not your thing) with a shopping cart and checkout, and also with a direct means of sending messages to you. Also, set up social media accounts and make it a point to participate; social media is a great FREE way to advertise your business.

Market yourself. Use your own photography on your website, on business cards, and on your social media site accounts. Let your work speak for itself. It’s the best marketing tool you have.

Choose a product. Do you want to conduct photo shoots, photograph weddings and other events, or make more creative pictures that can be framed and hung as wall art? You must decide exactly what you are selling in order to market your services or products.

Stock photos. One great way to get your digital photography business off the ground is to sell stock photos. You can take stock photos as a hobby and turn them into artwork that you can sell through your website, in between photo shoots and/or assignments. Graphic artists, web designers, marketing specialists, and a variety of other professionals rely on stock photos for their own businesses.

Branding. No matter what type of digital photography business you are interested in running, it is important that you develop a memorable brand for yourself. Choose a company logo, and even a motto. Use this branding on your website, business cards, social media accounts, and all advertising you do. The more recognizable your brand, the more people will be attracted to you, and the less you’ll have to work to get new business.

A digital photography business can be a great way to make money doing something you love. After all, digital photography is in high demand, and there are a lot of niches you may choose to specialize in. Aonsider these suggestions and you will be well on your way to bringing your business dreams to fruition.

About the Author: Jodie Farese is an amateur photographer and computer repair specialist. She specializes in helping other photographers with photos recovery projects when their harddrives or other hardware pieces crash.

Featured image provided courtesy of ginnerobot