HOW TO GET STARTED IN PHOTOGRAPHY!

While the kind of photography you’d like to do may vary, the method to get started will always be the same. Whether you’re changing your niche, or just starting out, I’m going to give you some practical advice to help you get started.

First off, you’re gonna need a portfolio. 

Whether you’re shooting for brands, weddings, or newborns, you need to have photos of what you want to shoot. Now there are two ways to go about this; one, fake it, or two, do it for free. If you’re wanting to be a wedding photographer, style a bridal shoot and get some photos! If you’re wanting to do branding, get items from your home and take pictures of them! Your other option is to ask people you know if you can shoot for them for free! Find someone with a newborn and ask if you can do some free photos for them! Or reach out to brands and offer to take product photos for free! People rarely turn down free stuff. 

Okay awesome, you have a portfolio, now what? 

Your next step is to get knowledgeable. People are hiring you because you’re the expert, so you have to make sure you actually ARE an expert. Read up on weddings and wedding coordinating! Learn the best ways to position a baby so they’re adorable and comfortable. Learn as much as you can!

Now that you’re an expert, it’s time to start shouting!

Okay don’t ACTUALLY shout (unless you want to). You have photos and you have some knowledge, and now you need to start telling EVERYONE about it. Post on Instagram and start sharing tips for brides! Tell the lady at the boutique you’re a brand photographer! Put yourself out there! I do want to note in this that you shouldn’t sound needy. You can be excited and you can tell the world, but you shouldn’t be BEGGING them to hire you. Just let them know you’re there and prove your worth to them.

And that leads into the final step, make sure to give your clients worth.

When I say clients I mean anyone who is a client or could be a client. Show new moms that you see them and care about them! Show brides that you understand how stressful wedding planning is and you’re there to help them out! Serve them and give them value in more ways than just your photos. 

Getting started isn’t easy, but you can TOTALLY do it! Just keep moving forward and be patient. You’ve got this.

Xx Meghan :)