How to start a career in photography

To start a career in photography, learn core photography skills, build a portfolio, and develop and refine your process. Starting a freelance business, such as photography, requires determination and dedication, but many freelance photographers can easily make over $65,000 annually, so it is worthwhile.

1. Learn core photography skills. Photography requires a specific set of skills, including understanding angles and lenses and having an eye for design. You also need to do what shots work best for which groups and how to control a large group for photos.

   You also need to know how to construct emails and advertisements and edit photos.

2. Build a portfolio. Once you have learned these core skills, you can start taking on your first clients and building a portfolio. Most likely, your first clients are not paying well, but this is an essential practice for you to gain experience.

   Your first jobs are more about the experience and building a portfolio rather than making lots of money.

3. Refine your freelance process. Generally, after 3 to 6 months of taking these small, entry-level jobs, you should be ready to begin taking on larger clients. To do this, it is important to streamline your entire process.

   This includes mapping out how you find leads, close sales, collect payments, and work with your clients. Having a set plan makes it easier to work with many different clients.

4. Advertise your business. There are many different photography businesses, so advertising is crucial for obtaining a solid customer base. Having an active social media presence is a great way to advertise.

   This is often a fairly inexpensive route, as you can use your edited photos as the photos you post, and it easily connects you to people who share your photography style.