A home photography business doesn’t necessarily require formal photography training. It requires a passion for photographic art, an artistic flair, the technical skills to operate the equipment, and the ability to market the business.
A high school or college student can start a home photography business by taking photos for the yearbook or the student newspaper. A basic photography course would be helpful as well. Nowadays, it’s good to know how to operate both a 33 mm and a digital camera. Local community colleges often have very reasonably priced community education courses, many that involve just one class in the evening or on the weekend. Colleges that offer Lifelong Learning Centers for folks 50+ have courses as well, and some of these are taught by very experienced retired home photography business professionals and little or no cost.
There are many types of photography, and the home photography business entrepreneur may want to specialize, perhaps in photography for news organizations such as the local daily or weekly paper, in advertising photography for local magazines and local firms that need to market their products. One of the most common forms of the home photography business is for events and celebrations such as weddings, bar mitzvahs, anniversaries, and other events. These can be especially lucrative as repeat business and excellent multiple referrals.
Travel photographers have exciting home photography business lives even though it takes a lot of skill and a lot of travel expense and practices photography before that first paid vacation is finely paid for.
Some folks create a home photography business working as photojournalists or specializing in medical or science photographers. While quite lucrative, these almost require a four-year degree with extensive photography and communication training. A college photography internship is a wonderful foot in the door for a home photography business as well.
A portfolio is a must for building a clientele for a home photography business. This means taking lots and lots of unpaid photo shots to show off exceptional talent to potential clients.
Some helpful ways to learn the ins and outs of home photography and a home photography business are by:
- Working as an assistant to a photographer.
- Joining associations and organizations of fellow photographers.
- Attending seminars and workshops on home business and photography.
There are also much cheaper ways to learn them directly from your home by downloading e-courses from the web.
