If you’ve been dreaming about starting a career in photography, then congratulations!

This is something many people wish they had done sooner, because it opens up a world of possibilities.

However, just like anything else, there are risks involved in pursuing a career path in photography. 

There are ways to mitigate  risks and we’re going to look at ways to make a success of a photography career.

Then you can decide whether or not it’s worth it for you to pursue your dream of becoming a professional photographer.

Be Prepared To Work Hard

Most photographers spend upwards of 10,000 hours practicing their craft over the course of their careers.

So, if you aren’t willing to invest that much time into improving yourself, then it will be much harder to turn your hobby into your career.

Have A Plan For How Much Money You Need To Make

If you don’t have a plan for how much money you need to earn each month, then you’ll never know if you’re going to run out of funds.

Having a budget helps you avoid falling behind on your payments and gives you peace of mind knowing that you’re prepared for whatever life throws your way.

Find Ways To Generate Income From Your Portfolio

There are several ways to generate income from your portfolio, including selling prints, licensing images, creating online courses, and teaching workshops.

Each method requires different skill sets, but they all help to diversify your portfolio and keep you afloat financially if you find yourself struggling.

Enroll In Some Courses 

If you are looking for a way to improve your skills as a photographer, there are many courses out there that will help you achieve your goals (see also ‘5 Amazing Ways To Get Noticed As A Photographer‘).

One such course is offered by the renowned Photo Academy.

You can learn everything you need to know about photography and become a professional photographer.

The academy offers a wide range of courses, including one called “Professional Photography Course – From Beginner To Advanced Level.”

In this course, you will learn how to take pictures, edit photos, shoot videos, and much more.

The course starts off by teaching you how to set up your camera properly.

Then, it teaches you how to use the settings on your camera.

After that, you will learn how you can control the aperture and focus.

Next, you will learn how exposure works and how to use it to your advantage.

Finally, you will learn how light affects images and how to use it creatively.

This course includes over 30 lessons, each of which takes around 2 hours to finish.

Each lesson is designed to cover a specific topic, while also giving you practice exercises to test yourself along the way.

At the end of every chapter, you will receive feedback from the instructor, allowing you to check your progress.

If you follow the instructions carefully, you will be able to master the basics of photography.

Be Clear About What You Offer

If you are a newborn photographer, it makes sense to be clear about what you offer.

For example, some photographers charge $200 per session while others charge $500.

Some offer free sessions while others require payment up front. 

Others specialize in one particular area, such as maternity or family portraits.

And still others offer a combination of different types of images.

Make sure your pricing structure reflects your expertise.

Don’t Be Afraid Of Negotiating Fees

Many photographers are afraid to negotiate fees because they think it means they are being greedy.

However, negotiating fees is actually an opportunity to get paid more.

It shows that you value your client’s business enough to ask for more money.

Build Relationships With Other Photographers

As a beginner, you probably won’t have much experience working with other photographers.

That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try! Get out there and meet other photographers.

Ask them questions about their experiences and share yours.

Find out what works well for them and learn from them. 

Offer Free Sessions 

Many photographers offer free sessions to new clients so they can establish their reputation before charging them for services (see also ‘How Can You Land More Clients As A Photographer‘).

While this may seem counterintuitive, it’s a smart move.

By offering free sessions, you give prospective clients a chance to see what you’re capable

Branding 

When it comes to branding, there are many things to consider.

One of the most important aspects is how easy it is to identify your brand.

This includes everything from fonts, colors, logos, and even imagery.

In fact, one of the best places to look for inspiration is online.

You can find great examples of brands on social media platforms like Pinterest or Instagram.

These are often used by people looking for ideas for their own businesses.

If you want to stand out from the crowd, you need to know what makes your brand special.

Advertising 

Whether you are a professional photographer or someone who shoots weddings, portraits, events, food, landscapes etc – there are many ways to generate leads and build your portfolio.

You can do this by advertising online, attending fairs and exhibitions, getting involved in social media groups, joining photography societies, or even applying for paid jobs such as wedding photographers.

Focus on generating leads for yourself.

This could mean putting together a small business plan, creating a blog, setting up a profile on LinkedIn, reaching out to contacts via email, or simply networking.

Whatever method you choose, make sure you’re doing it consistently and regularly.

Final Thoughts

Starting a photography career takes time and dedication. It’s not something that happens overnight.

However, if you’re willing to put in the work, you’ll be able to build up a portfolio over time. 

Once you have a good amount of experience under your belt, you’ll be ready to take your skills to the next level and expand your business.

Positive thinking and proactivity could get you on the road to success quicker than you think.

👉 Watch how Art Storefronts member Tony Kantin started his photography business.