So, you have decided to turn your photographic skill into a business. It’s a big step, but it may not be easy to start and earn your first money as a professional photographer. In this video, Jeff Rojas shares some valuable tips to help you get started. He gives you three ways to market yourself and make your first $1,000 as a photographer.
First of all, you should consider your photography as something of value, and not purely as a commodity. Image is everything, and you should offer your clients help in building their visual identity. Your first $1,000 can come from a single client, from two clients paying you $500 and so on. The price depends on many factors, but the point is the same: you want to convince your potential client that you offer something of value at a good deal.
1. Reach out to potential clients
I believe it has happened to you to see ads and billboards with images that aren’t really good, and think: “I could do a better job than that.” You probably can, but this is what you need to tell to your potential clients. Call those businesses and offer to help them raise their advertising to a higher level. Seek for opportunities, don’t just see them and do nothing.
2. Assisting
Find a photographer you admire and contact them to see if they need an assistant. This way, you can gain a valuable experience and learn a lot of new things. Keep in mind that they have a business to run and no one will take you as an assistant just so you can learn. Offer something in return and think about how you can also help them grow their business. The favor goes both ways.
Alternatively, you can even charge an assistant rate. If you have something to offer to help another photographer grow their business, they are likely to pay you.
3. Networking
Finally, you need to go out and meet new people at photography events. Let people know that you exist as a photographer and a small business owner. Tell them what you have to offer and come from the position of offering something of value. Personally, I find mingling at these events a bit scary, I tend to be shy. But if you want to grow your business, connections are very important.
Do you have any tricks for earning your first money as a photographer? How did you make the first move?
[3 Ways to Make Your First $1,000 as a Photographer | Jeff Rojas]
