Let start a Professional Wedding Photography Business
When digital cameras were first introduced, the wedding photography industry in the whole
world changed immensely. Gone were the days when professional wedding photographers took pictures of the bride and groom only if they were sure they were great shots. They did their best to make sure every roll of film counted. And why wouldn’t they? Film photography was expensive, and brides and grooms expected to see stunning pictures on every proof sheet. Today, digital cameras are making it easier for more photographers and photography enthusiasts to get started in wedding photography. With the increased competition, you might be wondering how you can set your wedding photography business apart.
In this post I have discussed about some helpful ideas to improve your skill in wedding photography.
Set up your wedding photography business
This sounds like a given, but many wedding photographers haven’t set up their businesses properly. Doing so will make you look professional to your clients, and protect you from potential legal liabilities down the road. It’s a good idea to hire an attorney to register your wedding photography business properly, help you create the right photography contract. After you choose a business name, your attorney can make sure that it isn’t already trademarked by another photographer.
Get liability and equipment insurance
Imagine this scenario: You book a wedding shoot and spend countless hours planning it with the couple, and creating your timetable and shot list. Then, you show up at the venue only to find out that you need insurance in order to work on the property. The bride and groom don’t have time for this; they want their special moment to have no interruptions. If you can’t snap their pictures, you’ve got problems. Obtain insurance to protect you from lawsuits, liabilities, or other related claims. Also consider getting insurance for your photography equipment against damage or theft.
Have a wedding photography contract
It is quite easy to overlook the legal side of wedding photography. That said, it is imperative that you protect yourself, and your wedding photography business, with a contract. An attorney can help you structure a contract, which is a legal document that contains the responsibilities of both parties, such as pricing, location, cancellation policy, deliverables, delivery date, reproduction rights, etc. Presenting a binding wedding photography contract shows that you are a true professional, and it will help ensure that all parties are on the same page in terms of expectations.
Buy the right photography equipment
No matter how talented a wedding photographer you are, you can’t capture the best pictures without the best equipment. Your equipment is a long-term investment in your business, so try to get the best tools to fulfill the expectations of your clients. DSLRs, wide-angle lenses, telephoto lenses, macro lenses, light kits, light boxes, filters, wireless remotes, tripods, and monopods are expensive, but you can get them with a short-term business loan, or a photography equipment leasing plan. In addition, invest in backup versions of your most important equipment, such as your camera and lenses. This will enable you to keep shooting in the rare event something malfunctions. And don’t forget about image storage. Bring a laptop computer to your wedding shoot, and make backups of all images on at least two external hard drives.
Market your wedding photography business
The best way to land new clients is to showcase your work, and it starts by having a website with a portfolio of big, beautiful images. Once you create a business website, update it frequently with news, events, and blog posts. Also, promote your wedding photography business on social media to expand your reach and grow your brand. Finally, be professional and courteous when meeting with prospects. Get to know who they are and what they want from a wedding photographer, and work with their budgets