What Do You Need to Start a Photography Business?
So you’ve decided to step out of your comfort zone and take the bull by the horns and make your dream of a photography business a reality! Now is time to get yourself a proper photography kit.
But what do you need to start a photography business? There’s a little more to it than just a camera and tripod.
Here are a few of the recommended pieces of equipment to include in your photography kit and other things you will need to get started with your photography business:
Camera
It goes without saying that a good camera is the most essential piece of equipment that you will need for your photography business. Make sure to do some research on different cameras, but as a starting point you can check out Nikon D750, Nikon D610, Canon 6D or a Sony A711.
Lenses
A lens is also one of the most important parts of your kit, and you can end up spending a lot of money on them if you’re not careful.
If you are looking for a high-quality lens to start out, you should go with a prime lens. They start around $200 and can go up to into the thousands, so look around and check out what you need in regards to zoom.
Tripod
A tripod is a practical element of most photography kits. It can be used to position and stabilized the camera to capture the perfect shot.
I recommend to NOT skimp when purchasing a tripod. A cheap tripod can be ineffective and prevent you from being able to capture the shots you need.
Editing Software
Whether you choose Photoshop or Lightroom (some use both), you will need post-production editing software to be a professional photographer. Jump online and download a trial version of either software program so you can find your way around the features before you buy.
Monitor
A monitor will help you with your serious editing and can help to ensure color calibration and quality of the shot. Look for an IPS monitor that has the capability to get the color editing you need done without the stress.
Lighting
Whether you are doing shoots indoors or outdoors, you will likely need to invest in a flash and light modifiers to get the look you’re after.
A Camera Bag
Having a good camera bag is essential if you plan on carrying around your gear at all.
If you are a wedding photographer where you are moving around or a landscape photographer you could consider using a backpack or if you do mostly studio you could consider using a suitcase.
Extra Camera Batteries
There is nothing worse than running out of battery when you are in the middle of a shoot. So make sure to have a few extra batteries on hand in your new photograpy kit so you don't run into this disastrous problem.
Other Business Essentials
In addition to the previously mentioned equipment and software, you should probably consider these other essentials for your new photography business:
- Your own domain name and website
- Photography blog
- Business cards
- Contracts
- Accountant
- Photography association membership
- External hard drive or set up cloud storage
- Insurance
Starting a Photography Business on a Budget
Of course you can start with the bare minimum when it comes to your photography kit - thats up to you!
However, if you want to make the leap into professional photography a little more affordable, you might want to see if you can share some items between another colleague.
Another option is to check online to find second-hand equipment or gear that is no longer needed by other photographers. This can help you fill out your photography kit without spending thousands of dollars.
Do you have any questions or comments about What You Need to Start a Photography Business? Leave us a comment below - we would love to hear from you! And please share this post using the social sharing buttons (we really appreciate it)!
Comments