Need help starting my business

[SamuelN]

Well, I've decides to start my own photography business. I've been reading all about it and trying to do all the things I need to get done. So I think I know everything I need to do to get set up with taxes. I just need to go to my State Governments website and signup for a sales tax license and register with their system. I also know that for taxes to keep track of all the money going out and coming in. Should I just keep my receipts and Invoices or keep them and use software or something to manage them better?

I don't have an external flash(next thing I'll buy) so if I need to fill in light I know I could use a reflector. But how would I take the picture and hold the reflector?

I plan on sorting through the pictures, editing them, and then giving the finished files on a CD. Does that sound good?

Should I just make my own model release forms? Or Is there one I can download and use? Any other forms I need? And, can I sign forms even though I'm 16?

I live in a small town and I defiantly think that there is a demand for a photographer.

Any tips about anything else?

I know I asked a lot, but all replies are appreciated! Thanks!

[SusanH1970]

Originally Posted by SamuelN

Well, I've decides to start my own photography business. I've been reading all about it and trying to do all the things I need to get done. So I think I know everything I need to do to get set up with taxes. I just need to go to my State Governments website and signup for a sales tax license and register with their system. I also know that for taxes to keep track of all the money going out and coming in. Should I just keep my receipts and Invoices or keep them and use software or something to manage them better?

You should probably ask an accountant.

I don't have an external flash(next thing I'll buy) so if I need to fill in light I know I could use a reflector. But how would I take the picture and hold the reflector?

Hire an assistant (you should also know when/if you'll need flash vs a reflector in any given situation before even thinking about going into business).

I plan on sorting through the pictures, editing them, and then giving the finished files on a CD. Does that sound good?

Depends on what your clients want. Some like prints and products, some prefer full-res files to do with what they please; some want both. Don't underprice either.


Should I just make my own model release forms? Or Is there one I can download and use? Any other forms I need? And, can I sign forms even though I'm 16?

Google is your friend.

And WHAT? You're 16??? Ignore all of the above. You're not ready or able to start your own business.

I live in a small town and I defiantly think that there is a demand for a photographer.

Any tips about anything else?

Finish high school. Do photography as a hobby and refine your skills. The small town will wait.

I know I asked a lot, but all replies are appreciated! Thanks!

Seriously, I do wish you the best. Photography a fun hobby. But the business aspects of it if you choose it as a job are very, very time-consuming, can be difficult and confusing, and are generally a pain in the butt. I commend you for wanting to do it the legal way (paying taxes, etc.) - that's amazing coming from someone so young (you could give lessons to more than a few adults I know, lol).

I only do professional photography part-time and it's NOT as exciting as most newbies think. Only about 10% of it is shooting. The rest is all business-related, and far from fun. Are you taking business classes in school? If not, I advise you to do so if this is something you are serious about.

Again, I wish you the best. You sound like a very enthusiastic person - keep that attitude up and you WILL go places. Just take a step back - no need to jump in with both feet this early.

[SamuelN]

Thanks for the reply! So if my photography is just a hobby can I still charge money? Do I pay taxes on that Or by hobby do you mean just doing it for fun without charging?

[SierraPhotog]

You can always charge for prints of your photos, but I tend to agree with Susan here. Lighting is a huge topic itself, and to say you'll just use a reflector since you can't afford off-camera flash yet just reveals a lot about what is left to learn. Have fun with your photography, participate in online forums, and if something sells then great!! But have fun now, because if you choose to make it a real business then you are a business owner first, and photographer second...

SteveB