There are many ways to end up “going pro” as a photographer. Some of us start out as hobbyists and simply make a gradual transition to professional. Others are fortunate enough to realize the dream early, get a formal education in the photographic arts before taking the plunge. Still others just “jump in with both feet” and start with stock photography or selling prints.
Regardless of how they got there, though, there are some common mistakes made by many would-be pro photographers and some of them can be potentially fatal to the business. This article will list some of the most common, so those of you with high hopes can avoid them.
Investing too much in gear
It doesn't take a lot of shopping to realize that photography equipment can set you back more than your average new car. Before you take out a loan for the biggest and best, though, remember that it's the photographer, not the gear that creates the images. While your equipment should be in good shape, it needn't be brand new or top-of-the-line. Be realistic in your approach to outfitting your business. You can invest in nicer stuff when you have a hundred or so sales under your belt.
Not protecting the investment
No matter how small your investment in equipment is, it's critical to remember that, without the equipment, your business doesn't run. You also need to realize that accidents happen, as well as theft, and that sometimes mechanical things just break down. When those things happen, you need to have a way to replace equipment as quickly as possible. It's easier and more affordable than you may think. Get more information here.
Neglecting the marketing
An incredible number of extremely talented photographers never make that first sale. To be frank, in today's world, exceptional photographers are everywhere. Those that become successful in the business do so because their exceptional work gets the exposure necessary in such a crowded market. Learn to market your work or hire someone who knows how. It's not just a good idea; it's an absolute necessity.
Failing to understand the risks
A photography business comes with risks that many other businesses don't. The potential loss, theft or damage to your equipment is just the tip of the iceberg. Consider these possible scenarios:
- Failure of a memory card during a wedding shoot
- A child is injured in a fall over one of your studio lights.
- Your studio is temporarily closed because of a flood.
- Your important documents are destroyed in a fire.
Any one of those events could be catastrophic for your business. Knowing the risks isn't enough, however. You need to ensure that when the inevitable happens, it doesn't mean the end of your run. We highly recommend taking a look at the plans created specifically with you in mind from National Photographer's Insurance. Get a free online quote today.