I hope everyone is doing well and ready for Santa to slide down the chimney or at least an awesome family member who has listened to your "All I want for Christmas" Rant.
I wanted to cover something real quick because I get asked this question A LOT!
What camera would you recommend someone who is starting out and what advice can you offer about dealings in the business?
Have a budget? Of course you do,,, we all do!
Shop accordingly. Most cameras come as kits. You can get a camera, lens and memory all in one box for the most. Ive not purchased a camera in a long time but it doesn't seem to vary much.
What kind of lens with the kit? Most will offer 1 or 2 options on the lens. It will not even be that big of a deal. It will be a zoom lens. I would get the standard zoom. It should cover most of what you want to do in wedding and portrait photography. If you want to be come a bird photographer, order your mega telephoto zoom separate, pay the price $$$ and save yourself some grief and get a "L" series glass.
A flash, something more powerful than the pop up (if yours comes with a pop up)
A light diffuser- they are fairly cheap and I have seen photographers make theirs until it was plausible for their budget. What works,, WORKS!
A tripod- go ahead and get a real sturdy one. Once you begin to add more hardware to your camera the heavier it will get. Tilt with Panning!
Remote shutter release chord. Wireless or non Wireless.. Why? Camera shake! From non flash rules in churches to firework photography.. You will need it and the timer built in is ok, but you do want more freedom?
I say that is a good start!
Where do you buy your equipment? I buy from B&H Photo, I have never had an issue and they are up to par with pricing and sometimes being a member you get perks, Plus you get this awesome catalog you can drool in while sitting on your porch outside, having coffee! I call it my Photography Bible!
Business Advice:
Should I get a license? Yes! Check according to your state. Call your local county's office and check with your CPA about filing your taxes.
What to charge? Charge based upon your experience, time and travel. Check local photographers in your area and see what they are doing.
This is what I recommend to everyone starting. Charge per hour and cut a disc. Most everyone wants to take their photos to a five and dime for printing. So let's just face it. Make your workflow easy and develop prints and other products as you go.
I hope this helps!
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