Things You Need Before Starting A Photography Business
Things You Actually Need to Start a Photography Business (Without Wasting Money)
There’s no shortage of advice out there telling you what to buy when you’re starting your photography business. And I get it—it’s tempting to think the next lens or fancy light will change everything.
When I started 7 years ago, I had a serious case of shiny object syndrome. I wanted it all. And guess what? I didn’t need half of it.
If you’re at the beginning of your photography journey and wondering what you actually need to start strong—this is for you. I’m breaking down the essential tools, gear, and editing programs that’ll get you up and running without draining your bank account.
No fluff. No pressure. Just the gear that truly matters when you’re building a business that lasts.
No matter where you are in your journey as a photographer, there is some essential equipment you need to start a photography business. Here a list to get you started.
A Camera
It should come as no surprise that first and foremost, an important piece of equipment when starting a photography business is a good camera. This can be overwhelming because there are so many options out there to consider.
Make sure to do some research on different cameras, as some work better in certain situations than others. So depending on what kind of photography niche you are starting in you will want to look into this, but as a starting point you can check out Nikon D750, Nikon D610, Canon 6D, or a Sony A711.
Recommended Lightroom Presets
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Legacy Pack – The Complete Embrace Editing Vault™
Original price was: $1,945.00.$397.00Current price is: $397.00. -
Bohemian Reverie ™ Artist Edition Lightroom Presets
Original price was: $79.00.$69.00Current price is: $69.00. -
Havana Collection
Original price was: $79.00.$27.00Current price is: $27.00. -
Lightroom Mobile Presets
Original price was: $37.00.$27.00Current price is: $27.00. -
This Collection Has Been Retired – Sunset Sun Flares
Original price was: $79.00.$27.00Current price is: $27.00.
At Least One Good Lens
At the top of your “important gear” list should be a lens. If you are not mindful, however, you can end up spending a fortune on this one particular category of equipment.
Like cameras, there is an overwhelming amount of options available when it comes to lenses. I recommend researching what would be best for your chosen niche and particular style and really asking yourself what you need.
If you are just starting out and looking for a high-quality lens, you should go with a prime lens. They start around $150 but can be priced well into the thousands.
Lightroom
Post-production editing is where the magic of professional photography takes place.
Whether you choose to use Lightroom or Photoshop, or both, you can download a free version or trial to try and navigate the features before you make a decision on what to buy. I used strictly Photoshop for years, but made the switch to Lightroom and never looked back.
Tripod
An empirical element of every photographer’s toolbox is a tripod.
A tripod will let you take better photos when there is not much light available. They are used used to stabilize and position the camera to capture the shots you need.
Without a tripod, in low light settings, your camera will often result in a blurry and/or grainy photo if you are simply holding your camera.
This is one piece of equipment I recommend NOT cutting corners on. An ineffective tripod can really prevent you from being able to capture the picture-perfect shot.
Lighting
Lighting is an essential element of any good photograph. And while natural lighting is usually preferred, you’ll also likely want to invest in some studio lighting for when natural sunlight is not an option.
Even for outdoor shooting, you will likely need to invest in a flash and light modifiers to really obtain the look you are hoping to achieve.
Camera Bag
If you plan to carry your gear, having a good camera bag is essential.
If you’re a wedding photographer, for example, you could consider a style such as a backpack or a shoulder bag, whereas a Boudoir photographer working more in a studio would maybe prefer a suitcase-style.
There are so many options available, so shop around and have a little fun with it.
Here are a few of my favorites:
THEIT Camera Bags
Strapped Camera Co
Extra Batteries
There is literally NOTHING worse than running out of battery before your session is over. Don’t let this happen to you.
Even if you don’t think you’ll need them – always be prepared. There are always unforeseeable flukes like battery malfunctions, or an improper charge… plus batteries do get weaker over time, and before you know it slowly takes fewer and fewer images.
Having a backup (or two or three) will give you peace of mind and less stress. You’ll take more photos, capture more shots and potentially create more of the show-stopping “keeper” images.
Photography Business License & Legal Setup
One of the most overlooked steps when starting a photography business is handling the legal side. Many new photographers focus on equipment and marketing but forget about business registration, licenses, and contracts—which can lead to issues down the road.
Some other things to consider when starting your own photography business:
• Decide on your prices
• Build a website, or an online platform where clients can find you and easily get in contact with you re: booking
• Create a brand (I have two – Jasmin Jade and Embrace Presets)
• Dive into Instagram Marketing, and learn specifically how this social platform can benefit your photography business
• Create contracts before taking any payments or agreeing to any work
Are you a Boudoir photographer looking to start or grow your very own business? Go Further is my jam-packed Boudoir Business Course. Join today and learn everything I wish I had known when I first started in this industry.
