Use Instagram as Your Initial Platform:

Instagram is a visual platform and ideal for showcasing your photography.

Start posting your best work, even if they are self-portraits, to establish your style.

Collaborate with Friends for Variety:

Collaborate with friends for shoots to add variety to your portfolio.

This also allows you to practice your skills and build a network.

Consider creating a website

As your portfolio grows, consider creating a website to showcase your best work and provide contact information.

Websites can add a professional touch

Join a FB group for photography meetups. There are a lot of other people looking to build out portfolios, including models.

Network - events, meetups, groups, practice, other photographers, etc.

Figure out what your niche and target is. Then you could build a business geared towards that.

If you’re in the visual space, which photography is, you also need a website because people will expect to look at your portfolio.

Build out social presence. I’d recommend starting small and focusing on a single channel and Instagram would make the most sense.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you establish your photography business:

1. Define Your Niche:

Identify the specific type of photography you want to focus on (e.g., portrait, wedding, event, commercial, nature).

Understanding your niche helps you target a specific audience and tailor your services accordingly.

2. Develop Your Skills:

Ensure your photography skills are top-notch. Continuous learning and improvement are crucial in the competitive field of photography.

Consider taking courses, attending workshops, or collaborating with experienced photographers to enhance your skills.

3. Create a Business Plan:

Outline your business goals, target market, marketing strategy, financial projections, and pricing structure.

A well-thought-out business plan will serve as a roadmap for your photography business.

4. Legal Considerations:

Register your business and choose a legal structure (sole proprietorship, LLC, etc.).

Check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits or licenses.

5. Equipment and Software:

Invest in high-quality camera equipment, lenses, lighting, and editing software.

Set up a dedicated workspace for editing and managing your photography business.

6. Build an Online Presence:

Create a professional website showcasing your portfolio, services, and contact information.

Utilize social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest to showcase your work and engage with potential clients.

7. Networking:

Attend local events, join photography groups, and network with other professionals in your area.

Word-of-mouth referrals can be powerful in the photography business.

8. Pricing Strategy:

Determine your pricing structure based on your skills, experience, and market demand.

Consider offering package deals and discounts for repeat clients.

9. Contracts and Policies:

Develop clear and comprehensive contracts outlining terms and conditions, pricing, and usage rights.

Clearly communicate your policies on cancellations, rescheduling, and image delivery.

10. Marketing and Advertising:

Implement a marketing strategy that includes both online and offline methods.

Utilize social media, SEO, and online advertising to reach a broader audience.

11. Client Experience:

Provide excellent customer service to build a positive reputation.

Deliver high-quality work on time, communicate effectively, and exceed client expectations.

12. Financial Management:

Keep detailed records of your income and expenses.

Consider hiring an accountant to help with taxes and financial planning.