a quick guide to owning your own photography business.
If you’re ready for a career change or you’re simply not sure how to get started this blog might be for you!
I am so happy you are here because I was where you are. I’ve worn those shoes, so I can imagine that you’re probably finding yourself daydreaming, desiring and wanting more than anything to photograph love stories for a living. You might be looking to transform your hobby into a thriving career or you might be ready to start from scratch, quit your day job and dive in head first. I’ll be the first to say that you will NOT be sorry!
Getting a little personal…
I was an undergraduate student at Texas State University pursuing a degree in Nutrition and Dietetics for most of my college career. My plan was to become a Registered Dietitian. I absolutely loved nutritional studies and my time at Texas State University, but my earlier college years weren’t as joyful. I was a Division II volleyball and tennis player (which I loved), but I was also a Biology major and a Piano minor. Unfortunately, I did not receive unconditional support from my mother throughout my life, so I was expected to pursue a career that only she approved of. I had dreams as every child should, but she wasn’t supportive. My desire to be a psychology major with an art minor was silly and childish from her point of view. Her sole purpose was to be the mother of a Doctor and/or famous Pianist. Without getting into the nitty gritty details from my childhood I will condense the ugly bits and say that it took me far too long to learn who I was and what I wanted for myself. I struggled with insecurities, abandonment issues, and a constant nagging feeling that I was never going to figure out my purpose. It wasn’t until I experienced some life changing events, met my husband and then moved to Texas that I started to discover what my purpose in life was. Every job I held and every class I took from high school until the age of 22 was dictated by my mother. Once I moved to Texas I finally took control of my life, changed my major and graduated with a BS in Nutrition and Dietetics and an MS in Nutrition and Dietetics in the spring of 2022. I love nutrition, but I’ve always loved photography more.
In high school I would commonly borrow my dad’s digital camera to photograph my friends, and I would spend hours editing them for no reason other than for pure enjoyment because I love being creative. There’s a Tupperware container in our basement with old notebooks that are worn and covered in doodles. I even have an old Facebook album that holds some of my very first edited photographs. I was completely self taught in every way, but the thought of being a Wedding Photographer never seemed like a reality or even a possibility for that matter. My husband bought me my first camera for my birthday in 2018. It was a Canon Rebel T6, and it now sits on a very special shelf in my office. My husband proposed just a few years later in 2020 on the mountains of Angel Fire Resort in New Mexico. Throughout the wedding planning process I drooled over the thought of being a Wedding Photographer. Just a few months later a close friend of mine asked me if I’d be interested in taking her sister’s graduation pictures. The timing was perfect, and I jumped at the opportunity. Tiffany Christina Photography wasn’t in existence until the very beginning of 2021, but I offered free photoshoots for many months before I started putting a price on my photographs. It was the best way to learn and build confidence behind a lens. One day, I looked at myself in the mirror and saw myself a little differently. I could see passion, desire and strength. “That’s it,” I said. “I’m going to do this. I’m going to be a Wedding Photographer,” and the rest is history.
believe in yourself
I have a long list of hobbies that I am passionate about, but this was different. I always feared that I would be unhappy and trapped in a job that didn’t move me or inspire me, but I have now found the opposite to be true. Life is too short, and I wish that I would have prioritized myself at an earlier age but timing is everything. It was at that moment; looking in the mirror that I knew exactly what I wanted for myself and my family. Sometimes, I still can’t believe that I actually did it. I’ve actually reached my goals, and I haven’t stopped! There’s a special feeling I get behind the camera that is beyond any explanation I can manage. I feel incredibly blessed to feel passion on a full time basis. I wake up excited to go to work and get lost in my editing. I quit my desk job, reduced my weekend availability at the bar and photographed my very first wedding in Punta Gorda, FL. Now, I’m here with an ever-growing business, evolving skills, amazing couples and the most supportive community I’ve ever had. I have a passion for documenting love stories, building relationships with my couples and creating cherished art on a daily basis.
build a community
I truly value community, and I believe that it’s absolutely vital to develop a community within this industry which is why prioritize supporting other small business owners whether they are new to the field or seasoned. Personally, I struggled to find helpful and kind support in the very early stages of my photography journey. I found that a lot of photographers were not open to sharing their advice, but I did meet two photographers whom I owe everything to. I learned so much from both of them over the course of six months. I shadowed and assisted a wedding photographer who has been a staple in the Austin, TX wedding community for nearly 20 years. The other photographer specializes in maternity and motherhood photography but also photographs weddings. I learned so much from both of these amazing people, and I am so grateful.
I highly recommend networking with a Wedding Photographer or two who will allow you to shadow them as you grow your wedding legs. I found shadowing and second shooting to be extremely valuable during the learning process. It’s a great way to pick up good habits, learn how to navigate a wedding day and practice adjusting your settings without the pressure. I always asked for their feedback also. If you value constructive criticism you’ll recognize that this part of growing and learning is invaluable.
pick a name for your business + make it official!
In January of 2021 I walked into the County Clerk’s office of my little Texas town to register my business name. I paid one dollar for my DBA. Then, I received an employer identification number for tax purposes. Things were starting to feel real!
My website expanded and so did my online social media presence. I knew that I wanted to be taken seriously as a small business owner, so the first step was to act like an official business. It was a little intimating because I wanted to do everything correctly, so I spoke with accountants and state tax officers along with other local photographers to gain some insight on my next steps. Here’s what I would recommend if you’re wondering how this whole thing works. Consider this a start up checklist for your business, but keep in mind that every state is different. Some do not acknowledge DBAs, so you may have to purchase a trademark instead. Don’t forget to research, ask questions and make phone calls to be sure that you completely understand the steps you need to take to make things official!
Below, are a few vital steps to get your business started. Good Luck!
Wedding Photography Business start up steps:
Begin advertising free photoshoots to your family, friends and on local groups and pages
Pick your business name
Develop a social media presence. I recommend creating both a Facebook page and an Instagram page. I use my Instagram page more than my Facebook page, but I believe both to be necessary when it comes to networking and sharing your work.
Purchase a web designing platform and begin creating your brand. Pick your domain name and purchase it. Your domain will cost $20.00 per year depending on the platform you pick. Personally, I use SquareSpace, and I love it. There are a few bugs and hiccups I have experienced over the years, but overall it’s very user friendly and fun to use.
Set up your pricing guide and figure out your market
Register your DBA. This step may be different depending on the state you are registering your business in. Some states do not recognize a DBA (Doing Business As) while others recognize a trademark instead.
Reach out to local photographers in your area to let them know that you’re interested in shadowing, volunteering or being a second photographer
Be yourself, be creative and don’t give up!
