Just getting started and need some tips..

[constancecrosariol]

Hi Everyone!! First, I wanted to tell ya a little about myself. I have been taking pictures for as long as I remember. Got my first job in photography at 17 at the Sears Studio and stayed there until last year.They didnt require you to know manual settings there. Everything was preset.. So until recently I had no clue what any of the settings were (still figuring it out). I just knew that I love taking pictures and I am good at it. So in Auto Mode I stayed, even outside the studio. I have been trying to learn as much as I can about the settings and what they do.

I am just getting started doing freelance. I have done a few weddings and birthdays. I am wanting to start doing more and actually advertising to book appointments. I recently created a fan page on facebook. Constant Creations Photography - Local Business - Panama City, FL | Facebook and called my business Constant Creations Photography. I do families, seniors, birthdays, etc.... I already have had a few bookings. But I just wanted to know if a blog is worth doing... I have never even looked at a blog.. Yeah I know, I am sooo behind.. lol. Should I create one? What exactly is it supposed to look like? I also wanted to create a watermark for my images.. Any suggestions on a good program to create one? I know how to do just the text watermark. I was wanting to maybe make a design for it. I also need to type up a copyright form for my customers so that they can print from their CD.. I am just not sure what it should say? I want to give them rights to copy at will but still be able to retain the rights to publish and show the pictures as I want.. All and any suggestions are welcome. I am a first time forum poster so bear with me.

Thanks in advance!!!

[Brian Headlee]

Creating a blog or a website is a great idea. It will legitimize your business and give you a place to show off your work and personal style.

As far as the watermark is concerned . . . find a professional and have a logo created. Logos are not just pretty marks they are functional and there are many rules to creating a successful one. They don't have to cost you a ton of cash, but if you spend a little more now and have a professional create one, it will save you from many headaches in the future.

[Melio]

I use Zenfolio for my website and depending on the package you choose, you can sell your work and manage your own watermarks. You can find tutorials online on how to make watermarks. You can create a brush in PSE and then basically just stamp it onto images. Good luck with your business!