When it comes to your success as a photographer, it doesn't just depend on your talents, skills, and drive.
Instead, behind every successful photographer is a team of people that help make those photography dreams a reality.
While your office manager and second shooter are essential, there are a few other people you need to propel your business.
How to Be a Successful Photographer: Get an Attorney
Yes, you need an attorney if you're going to be a professional photographer.
From helping you set up your business to representing you if you're sued and various points in between, an attorney is a beneficial person to have throughout your career.
Naturally, when looking for an attorney, you need to find someone with the requisite knowledge and experience in business.
You need an attorney who can help you create contracts, set up your legal business, advise you on copyright issues, and so forth.
And I know what you're thinking - why do I need to pay an attorney to do these things when I can find what I need on Google?
Well, the answer is simple - structuring your business and making legal documents is not something you want to leave to chance.
Sure, you can probably find what you need on websites like LegalZoom, but at the end of the day, are you willing to risk your business for the sake of saving a few bucks?
Since attorneys are well-versed in business topics, they should be your first call for questions related to setting up your business.
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An Insurance Agent is a Photographer's Best Friend
Unfortunately, accidents happen all the time, and we all have to be prepared to handle them when they occur.
A self-employed photographer needs to have the right kind of insurance to protect him or herself from losses due to damaged or stolen gear, injuries to clients, and catastrophes like flooding or earthquakes.
While we all hope to never use our insurance policy, not having one is similar to playing with fire. Think about it...
All that has to happen is for a pipe to burst in your studio or a client to trip over your camera cable for you to be in a very serious situation.
That's why having a reliable and trustworthy insurance broker is a must-have for all professional photographers.
But not all photography insurance is made alike.
Some companies are in it for the money and offer shoddy coverage at exorbitant prices.
However, other companies, like Athos Insurance Services, are built to provide the best insurance options and top-quality services so you can be more successful.
Athos does this in a variety of ways.
For starters, you can buy their equipment coverage you need anytime, day or night, seven days a week on their website.
With quick and easy quotes, specialized coverages that you can customize to your specific needs, and easy-to-understand policies, there's no easier way to protect your business.
Additionally, Athos Insurance offers a comprehensive equipment policy that has you covered in just about every situation imaginable:
- Floods and water damage
- Hail, lightning, and windstorms
- Earthquakes and damage from falling objects
- Fire and smoke damage
- Transit and shipping
- Explosions and acts of terrorism
- Theft
- Accidental damage, including scratches on your lenses
- Worldwide coverage
Talk about coverage!
Whether it's water or fire, falling objects or theft, explosions or an accidental drop, Athos has you covered.
It's important to note that this kind of coverage is available worldwide, since not all insurance companies offer worldwide coverage, which leaves you vulnerable when you travel abroad.
Check out Athos Insurance and get the coverage you need, no matter where you are, that way you're protected whether you're at home, on the road, or abroad.
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Photography Business Tip: Your Competitors are Essential
I know this might sound crazy, but your competitors should be considered essential to your success.
Here's what I mean...
On the one hand, your competitors will keep you on your toes and drive you to be a better photographer. That type of healthy competition is crucial as you grow your business.
On the other hand, engaging with your competitors and developing a respectful business relationship can grow your more business.
By that, I mean that if one of your competitors is double-booked, and you have a great relationship with them, guess who they'll call to fill in?
Sure, you might be competing for business in your area, but at the end of the day, if you make it a point to foster a working relationship with other photographers, that will help you overall build a successful photography business.