Photography

Zoom in on photography business options and focus on growing your business
By Lisa J. Jackson, Writer / Editor Offer photography services to the public as a viable business venture for qualified pros. Today's consumer-model digital cameras make shooting great pictures easy, but consumers still want professionals who can deliver quality photographs addressing their specific needs.

Your professional photography business should focus what you enjoy most. Limit your offerings based on your interests and experiences so that you feel fulfilled every time you get behind the camera:

1. Portrait photography allows you to focus on the human element behind the lens, generally in your private studio as you control lighting, setting, and poses.

2. Commercial photography is a competitive market and is best suited to those who can adapt to any filming conditions.

3. Scientific photography captures subjects related to research in order to illustrate or record discoveries, and requires a background in the scientific or technical field you'll photograph.

4. News photography -- or photojournalism -- focuses on newsworthy photos for magazines, newspapers, journals and television.

Gather photography information from photography professionals at the top of their game

Network with people who share an interest in photography and explore the wide range of options that the field of photography offers. You can locate community photography clubs by contacting a local school. There are also online communities which offer you the opportunity to meet people worldwide with a broad range of experience who can answer questions and help get you started.
Try:  Join the Professional Photographers' Network or the Professional Photographers of America to network with professional photographers. Join the National Press Photographers Association (NPPA) if you focus on photojournalism. Consider the American Society of Media Photographers (ASMP) if you are in the business of selling your photographs for publication. Buzzle.com provides an international listing of photography associations and organizations for your specific area of concentration.

Market your digital photography business to increase both foot and Web traffic

Consumers who want to hire a professional photographer to capture a personal moment in time need easy access to your website. Once they locate your website, they will focus in on your portfolio and your professional photographer information detailing your experience within your niche market and your professional associations. Join professional organizations to increase your business' searchability through membership listings, but also use marketing tools to reach potential clients.
Try:  Register with Photographers.com to reach a global customer base. Step into the world of e-commerce with Digital Express' PhotoReflect.com, which offers a virtual storefront capability, 24/7 customer digital access and reorder options. List your business for free with Photography Pros.

Put your photography supply and other resources to work for you

Owning a professional photography business may require you to invest in photography supplies, as well as stock photographs which enhance your offerings, especially when starting out. As your business grows and your portfolio expands, you'll need better equipment to keep up with photographic technology.
Try:  B&H Photo is a well-known resource for all photographers. Sign up for their newsletter or request their catalog to stay informed of the latest tips, tricks, and technology. Fotosearch has a large searchable database of stock photographs from all around the world. Visit the Work.com Guide to Digital Photography for Small Business to glean some tips and links that will help you set up your digital endeavor.

• Set up a photography studio only if that is what you are passionate about. With so many services available online, as well as easy-to-use software, you can practically run a photography business with only a camera and a computer.