Go take photos. Of anything. You have friends? Ask them to model. Like buildings? Go take pictures of some neat ones in your city. Go outside in the rain and take pictures off the reflections on the street. Try taking some close-up shots of some small items or insects or whatever. Hope that gives you a few ideas!
I've only been taking pictures of my friends and family and I don't have a website yet because I haven't started charging money yet but my Instagram has built about 50 pictures in a year, which is not a lot for a professional but I'm just starting my journey yet so yeah. My name has been spreading in my town but I still haven't gotten jobs so when I buy my new camera this month I'll start contacting local barbers/pubs/.. so I get my first jobs. Don't be shy to go on multiple shoots with the same friends
Before the E-mail address, before the logo, before an invoicing system and before the business cards you need far more important things. 1: An accountant to handle your taxes, particularly if you(wisely) incorporate to protect your personal assets. Trying to do 'bussiness' taxes yourself is foolish unless 'tax preparer' was your previous job title. Either you'll get audited for incorrect deductions or end over paying by not claiming some. 2: INSURANCE. No ifs ands or buts about it. Nothing can destroy your business quicker than a lawsuit. Whether it's because a light fell on someone or they slipped and fell on a shoot, even screwing up a job(lost the files on the way home?) can get you sued. That leads us to- 3: A lawyer that knows both contract and liability laws. You don't want to be shopping for a lawyer last minute, it generally costs you a lot more. 4: An operational budget. Just because you made $2K on a shoot today doesn't mean you'll do that as often as you need, like or even hope. First and foremost you need to put all of your income at the beginning of the month towards paying your accountant/insurance/lawyer/marketing/web hosting/etc BEFORE you pay yourself. I don't take a penny of income the first week of the month until I've made enough to cover my operational costs. How many aspiring photographers/creatives or any other entrepreneurial endeavors don't make it a year because they spent money on the business peripherals(logos/cards/website design) and gear rather than the universal things EVERY business needs?
Thank you. I know that he's mentioning all the fun stuff it sounds like but this is what I, and many others here, NEED to hear. I need to seriously consider if I can afford this investment because I know I've got the heart to put into it.
Literally the video I needed to see. I’ve been struggling to really get my business fully in motion. I’d say things I wanted to do but I just never do them. I’ve gotten myself so lost on just the process of getting started. I’ve got the gear, I’ve got the time. I just need to do it. I was telling this to myself earlier actually so I’m glad I came across this video right now. I’m going to do it. I’m going to stop procrastinating and just do it. No more fearing the unknown. I’m going to take my chances and accept that nothing needs to be perfect and that failure is a part of the journey to success. If I fail at anytime, I’ll get back up and learn from it and keep on pursuing my passion. (Sorry this is kind of a thing for my self lol) I just gotta put myself on blast and call myself out for holding myself back. I’m going to do it. Im going to fully commit and establish my own media business. It’s something I’ve always wanted. No more excuses. I will become the best I can be in my field and I will learn and grow everyday. I will succeed. Thanks for the video Chris! And all you do
Chris, you seriously are one of the most inspirational content creators/photographers that I've seen. Always love seeing your videos, and wish only the best for you and your business!
Dear Chris. I hope you read this comment. You say that your company focuses on video production. Why are your tutorials not about that? I want to learn more and see your behind the scenes when it comes to video marketing. Creating projects with clients, brands, companies. Video ads to commercials. Pre prod to prod to post prod. Would love to see more of that like how Daniel Shiffer does, he’s from canada too
What are your thoughts on going from a hobbyist to creating a business? Love photography, but unsure of how I transition it from a hobby to charging people and making a legit profitable business.
I can't believe I fell for that intro of myself smiling for the photo is as if that Chris was my Photographer 🤣 On the real note, these tips are helpful & can apply to anything such as Video Editor, Videographer, Designer, etc. Great branding insight tips Chris!
This is really helpful. I had a job lined up with ad agency “first official job ever” and I created an invoice but to be honest had no idea what I was doing and they never decided to contact me back.
Hello. Please give me an advice...Should I buy the pack Canon 80D with the lens EF-S 18-135 f3.5-5.6 IS USM or Sony A7 II with FE 28-70 f3.5-5.6 OSS? Thank you very much!
The other thing you need to know is if you're on a shoot for a client's company or an event, go and meet other photographers or videographers, hand them a card and they've probably call you for other shoots. Try to know everybody in you're same area.
People can also check to see if you have a business license, and are a member of the BBB. You might be surprised to learn how many people do this. Also, joining Professional Photographers of America is a good idea.
I used Fiverr to design both my logo and RUclips intro bumper. I am just super happy with them. My advice is have your ideas, thoughts, examples and intentions written down. It’ll help you convey your expectations across to the designer and reduce the amount of revisions.
Hi Chris! Really love the business side of the video and would love to see more of these, maybe even some for people who are not just starting out? I get all your points and agree with them for someone who is starting out. But being a designer it kind of comes across a bit conflicted for me. When you're talking about a high quality business card, but at the same time are getting a logo done with 50 dollars kind of devalues what a designer can actually do for you and your business. I'm totally with you on the aspect that when you're starting out and don't have a budget you should look at all your options, but there is a reason why brands spend thousands and thousand of dollars for logos.
I thought i'd ask here since you are always so helpful. I am looking to buy a camera in a few months.I was thinking about a new Canon 5D Mark IV but saw a very legit camera store having a used Canon 1dx ii for around the same price. I mostly do runway/studio and I am looking to start weddings. Would the canon 1dx ii used be a smart buy?
I dont know if you said it in this video ,but there is a company named moo that makes cool business cards and they have nfc cards which is pretty cool im going to be ordering some when i get back home!
I did a few random payed video gigs last month and I got asked for a card a few times. I also, recently got my FAA part 107 license last week. and yesterday when I was flying the mavic, a surfer asked me if I had a card for video work as well. I know I should order some cards. But, my question is should I have them look professional. Hence, a business name and a logo? Or would just a simple card with my info be good enough?
Ya I really like photography and filming but I don’t have a camera but watching you videos makes me want to do something to get a camera but don’t know how 😢.
Start with a cheap DSLR or mirrorless. I started with a Canon Rebel SL1 to see if I would enjoy it as a hobby in 2013, but now I recently sold it and got a full frame mirrorless. Had no idea I would enjoy photography as much as I do
Another little tip maybe, when your website is opened it sais „not safe“ it’s a little thing to fix, ask the one who designed your website to make it as a safe website on google.
Hey Chris! I’m a big fan! I’ve recently gotten into photography, and started taking it seriously, and I was wondering if you have any good tips for those just starting out? If you see this, thanks for your time 😁
100% on the email address thing. As you said, especially when inquiries come in. Also about the "additionally" thing...been there. Went back to the edit, was like wtf, and pointed it out in the video haha mine was "back and forth"
That's awesome always wanted to know about logo design's and the reason why you choose a certain logo, What is the story behind your lion head logo that you use to use in your older video's?
I've gotta say, I've got all these things but am having trouble finding clients. Facebook ads among other advertising worked very well for me last year but seem to have stopped working for me. Any tips on that?
Hey Chris! Great tips, but I think one important way to get a lot of this done that you didn't mention is finding friends you can colab with that have skills like design, websites, typography etc! I got my awesome (personal opinion but I am a little biased) logo done by a friend in exchange for some photos they needed of a building for their business website! I totally understand this was a sponsored plug for Fiverr though and think it's a great service if you find the right person to work with!
I don’t have much work as I’m new but I made sure to have a recognizable brand. I’m based out of St Louis area code 314 and my name for it is 31Fourtography and my logo is a a lens with the STL skyline reflecting in it. I have had very positive feed back from most people for the name and logo, think it’s creative and unique.
Please keep doing the business videos,! Very interesting and informative. Additionally, Do you think it is better to market yourself as a photographer or videographer... or both
Super helpful and informative man. Thank you, in the process of rebranding and never thought to use fiiver for logo services. Appreciate the time you put into sharing this with us !
Chris any word on the a6700 or a7000 I figured you're close to matrix and maybe you heard I rumor or two and no is an okay answer just thought I'd ask. Thx man
ADDITIONALLY :P
Link your photography businesses below - I want to check out your work. :)
Critiques are welcome!
I'd love to hear any feedback you might have!
Thanks for the info, it was very helpful. I'm actually about to buy a new camera and I'm wanting to start a photography/videography business.
That logo thing... I definitely need it!
@ericdavismedia
How about a video on how to get photos to start your first portfolio for building your business.
OutdoorJack904 easy steal them from insta
I've been sending my instagram as a portfolio or youtube links.
Go take photos. Of anything. You have friends? Ask them to model. Like buildings? Go take pictures of some neat ones in your city. Go outside in the rain and take pictures off the reflections on the street. Try taking some close-up shots of some small items or insects or whatever. Hope that gives you a few ideas!
I've only been taking pictures of my friends and family and I don't have a website yet because I haven't started charging money yet but my Instagram has built about 50 pictures in a year, which is not a lot for a professional but I'm just starting my journey yet so yeah. My name has been spreading in my town but I still haven't gotten jobs so when I buy my new camera this month I'll start contacting local barbers/pubs/.. so I get my first jobs. Don't be shy to go on multiple shoots with the same friends
Before the E-mail address, before the logo, before an invoicing system and before the business cards you need far more important things.
1: An accountant to handle your taxes, particularly if you(wisely) incorporate to protect your personal assets. Trying to do 'bussiness' taxes yourself is foolish unless 'tax preparer' was your previous job title. Either you'll get audited for incorrect deductions or end over paying by not claiming some.
2: INSURANCE. No ifs ands or buts about it. Nothing can destroy your business quicker than a lawsuit. Whether it's because a light fell on someone or they slipped and fell on a shoot, even screwing up a job(lost the files on the way home?) can get you sued. That leads us to-
3: A lawyer that knows both contract and liability laws. You don't want to be shopping for a lawyer last minute, it generally costs you a lot more.
4: An operational budget. Just because you made $2K on a shoot today doesn't mean you'll do that as often as you need, like or even hope. First and foremost you need to put all of your income at the beginning of the month towards paying your accountant/insurance/lawyer/marketing/web hosting/etc BEFORE you pay yourself. I don't take a penny of income the first week of the month until I've made enough to cover my operational costs.
How many aspiring photographers/creatives or any other entrepreneurial endeavors don't make it a year because they spent money on the business peripherals(logos/cards/website design) and gear rather than the universal things EVERY business needs?
Thank you. I know that he's mentioning all the fun stuff it sounds like but this is what I, and many others here, NEED to hear. I need to seriously consider if I can afford this investment because I know I've got the heart to put into it.
My logo was free, it was made by my girlfriend. So proud of her
Nice! :)
Vince Capino saved a fortune! ...
@@70mjc fiverr u can get logo for like 10
Nice
Literally the video I needed to see. I’ve been struggling to really get my business fully in motion. I’d say things I wanted to do but I just never do them. I’ve gotten myself so lost on just the process of getting started. I’ve got the gear, I’ve got the time. I just need to do it. I was telling this to myself earlier actually so I’m glad I came across this video right now. I’m going to do it. I’m going to stop procrastinating and just do it. No more fearing the unknown. I’m going to take my chances and accept that nothing needs to be perfect and that failure is a part of the journey to success. If I fail at anytime, I’ll get back up and learn from it and keep on pursuing my passion. (Sorry this is kind of a thing for my self lol) I just gotta put myself on blast and call myself out for holding myself back. I’m going to do it. Im going to fully commit and establish my own media business. It’s something I’ve always wanted. No more excuses. I will become the best I can be in my field and I will learn and grow everyday. I will succeed.
Thanks for the video Chris! And all you do
Chris, you seriously are one of the most inspirational content creators/photographers that I've seen. Always love seeing your videos, and wish only the best for you and your business!
This is great bro! 👏🏽
Thanks friend! :)
LOL I love the client impersonations. "lost your invoice" *gasp* Fiverr well spent on that logo.
No Jimmy Bob! Thanks Chris.
Dear Chris. I hope you read this comment.
You say that your company focuses on video production. Why are your tutorials not about that?
I want to learn more and see your behind the scenes when it comes to video marketing. Creating projects with clients, brands, companies. Video ads to commercials. Pre prod to prod to post prod.
Would love to see more of that like how Daniel Shiffer does, he’s from canada too
What are your thoughts on going from a hobbyist to creating a business? Love photography, but unsure of how I transition it from a hobby to charging people and making a legit profitable business.
I can't believe I fell for that intro of myself smiling for the photo is as if that Chris was my Photographer 🤣 On the real note, these tips are helpful & can apply to anything such as Video Editor, Videographer, Designer, etc. Great branding insight tips Chris!
This is really helpful. I had a job lined up with ad agency “first official job ever” and I created an invoice but to be honest had no idea what I was doing and they never decided to contact me back.
AWEESOMME!! I HOPE PART 2 TO TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHY COMES NEXT!!!
Chris, sorry for saying this,but this has got to be the best video you have produced till date.Keep it up man, cheers!
Hello. Please give me an advice...Should I buy the pack Canon 80D with the lens EF-S 18-135 f3.5-5.6 IS USM or Sony A7 II with FE 28-70 f3.5-5.6 OSS?
Thank you very much!
which camera should first capture this video? i need that camera .
I don't come to Chris for the Info but more for the motivation! Love You brother my energy is strong
AutumnFallCrew why not both my G 🧐
I've been using Wave for 5 years and love it, it's been amazing for what I need.
What are the rates.
@@libraalibaba I only pay for credit card processing which is pretty standard, 2.9% I believe
Great video with lots of good advice. As someone who gets a lot of business cards the 'unique size' is brutal and is a huge turn off.
The other thing you need to know is if you're on a shoot for a client's company or an event, go and meet other photographers or videographers, hand them a card and they've probably call you for other shoots. Try to know everybody in you're same area.
People can also check to see if you have a business license, and are a member of the BBB. You might be surprised to learn how many people do this. Also, joining Professional Photographers of America is a good idea.
Hi Chris, you're very informative and helpful. I enjoy your videos
what website/portfolio creator do you use?
I used Fiverr to design both my logo and RUclips intro bumper. I am just super happy with them.
My advice is have your ideas, thoughts, examples and intentions written down. It’ll help you convey your expectations across to the designer and reduce the amount of revisions.
This comment is so important!
Hi Chris! Really love the business side of the video and would love to see more of these, maybe even some for people who are not just starting out? I get all your points and agree with them for someone who is starting out. But being a designer it kind of comes across a bit conflicted for me. When you're talking about a high quality business card, but at the same time are getting a logo done with 50 dollars kind of devalues what a designer can actually do for you and your business. I'm totally with you on the aspect that when you're starting out and don't have a budget you should look at all your options, but there is a reason why brands spend thousands and thousand of dollars for logos.
I thought i'd ask here since you are always so helpful. I am looking to buy a camera in a few months.I was thinking about a new Canon 5D Mark IV but saw a very legit camera store having a used Canon 1dx ii for around the same price. I mostly do runway/studio and I am looking to start weddings. Would the canon 1dx ii used be a smart buy?
Great job chris your doing wonders for people.
Love your contribution to the community!
From the ad pic, i was expecting you to be talking about equipment.....but biz sense is good as well!
How did you get your business cards that small?
Business tips comin' in hot!!
Video idea: sole prop vs corporation?
ADDITIONALLY, I love these tips!
What camera is that? In the beginning 📸
Hey Chris what website do you use to create your business cards brother?
I dont know if you said it in this video ,but there is a company named moo that makes cool business cards and they have nfc cards which is pretty cool im going to be ordering some when i get back home!
Great suggestion! :)
Chris what company did you use for the odd shape business cards? Thanks!
love your leather couch Hau
Hello Chris,
What is the dimensions of this business card.?
Thanks :)
I did a few random payed video gigs last month and I got asked for a card a few times. I also, recently got my FAA part 107 license last week. and yesterday when I was flying the mavic, a surfer asked me if I had a card for video work as well. I know I should order some cards. But, my question is should I have them look professional. Hence, a business name and a logo? Or would just a simple card with my info be good enough?
love the bubblegum stick call card! did those for a client a while back. really stood out!
Such a simple way to stand out.
Can you tell us how you do marketing for companies? Like how do you promote them on different social media platforms?
Good tips for someone like me who's starting a business, thanks Chris ✌
Does Wave Apps deduct a fee from each payment?
Learning how to put the thumbs up and comment when I find a video helpful
Ya I really like photography and filming but I don’t have a camera but watching you videos makes me want to do something to get a camera but don’t know how 😢.
Start with a cheap DSLR or mirrorless. I started with a Canon Rebel SL1 to see if I would enjoy it as a hobby in 2013, but now I recently sold it and got a full frame mirrorless. Had no idea I would enjoy photography as much as I do
Ben Howard the thing is I don’t have money and I live in a small town so it is kind of hard to find jobs out here 😂
I AM watching this on a Friday! And I'm going to fire up the BBQ tonight! Cheers bruhhhhh
intro was hella funny good work chris keep it up
awesome video Chris ...where did you get the business cards...
Another little tip maybe, when your website is opened it sais „not safe“ it’s a little thing to fix, ask the one who designed your website to make it as a safe website on google.
Hey Chris! I’m a big fan! I’ve recently gotten into photography, and started taking it seriously, and I was wondering if you have any good tips for those just starting out? If you see this, thanks for your time 😁
Hi, Chris just wanted to let you know, your personal website link is not working.
Awesome video, Chris. Thank for this
100% on the email address thing. As you said, especially when inquiries come in. Also about the "additionally" thing...been there. Went back to the edit, was like wtf, and pointed it out in the video haha mine was "back and forth"
That's awesome always wanted to know about logo design's and the reason why you choose a certain logo,
What is the story behind your lion head logo that you use to use in your older video's?
love you vibes man
subscribed ✌🏼
I've gotta say, I've got all these things but am having trouble finding clients. Facebook ads among other advertising worked very well for me last year but seem to have stopped working for me. Any tips on that?
How did you make those SLICK animations??
Hey Chris! Great tips, but I think one important way to get a lot of this done that you didn't mention is finding friends you can colab with that have skills like design, websites, typography etc! I got my awesome (personal opinion but I am a little biased) logo done by a friend in exchange for some photos they needed of a building for their business website! I totally understand this was a sponsored plug for Fiverr though and think it's a great service if you find the right person to work with!
Not sure how i missed this gem. Great video and valuable info.
Easily best video about this i have seen, and i have seen a few!!
Dope smile hack! Adding this to my camera bag! 0:20
I painted my own logo :) And the previous one, I designed myself. One of the perks of being an artist and designer :D
Awesome tips bro, I hear the hoodie and the hair all throughout the video 😁👊❤🦅
This video is a big help Chris! I was just searching where to get the logo. I'll have a look!
Had me writing things down and stuff. So good. Do more!
I actually smiled, hahaha. These tips are SO good. I got asked if I had business cards on me the other day, so it's definitely very relevant.
haha YESS! Got you. Glad you see value in it :)
I don’t have much work as I’m new but I made sure to have a recognizable brand. I’m based out of St Louis area code 314 and my name for it is 31Fourtography and my logo is a a lens with the STL skyline reflecting in it. I have had very positive feed back from most people for the name and logo, think it’s creative and unique.
Man! You're a master mind of business ... I liked this video!
Can you make a video on how you registered your company and what the general procedure is like.
This video was very helpful!! I did many things like these, but never with so much details! ty
Getting a custom made logo was one of the best decisions ive ever made
Please keep doing the business videos,! Very interesting and informative.
Additionally,
Do you think it is better to market yourself as a photographer or videographer... or both
Always wondering this... Like should you niche down in the beginning or go for both just to get you going also you'll learn faster....
Definitely needed this. Great video!
The best! Man I love your this kinda Hau to videos. You inspire a ton!
Do you have a video that explains how you get into commercial photography?
Check out 2yr ago video
I wonder the size of business card?
Such a nice tips to start the photography / videography business. Thanks for sharing this!!
Inforcing some really solid points Chris!
What lens are you using for this vlog? :o
Huge inspiration
Thanks Nolan!
Thank you for this video, Chris! Additionally, have a great 2020!
some amazing tips here cheers chris
Hey Chris! I was wondering where you got your business cards from!!
Very informative video Christ! Thanks for sharing. I was wondering where did you make your business card???
Nice, great into, thank you.
Thank you man for this video, I took some notes so I can build my business.
Super helpful and informative man. Thank you, in the process of rebranding and never thought to use fiiver for logo services. Appreciate the time you put into sharing this with us !
Super easy to follow tips that can take you FAR from the competition! Great video Chris
super awesome video man! where did you order your cards from? they indeed look great.
Great Video, a lot of very useful information. Keep them coming, you are an inspiration.
Such a great video! Thanks for all that you do.
Chris any word on the a6700 or a7000 I figured you're close to matrix and maybe you heard I rumor or two and no is an okay answer just thought I'd ask. Thx man
Thank you Chris. Great video as always!
Thanks for watching!
Great video dude! Super helpful.
Great help ! I am going to owe you a lots. Love you man ❤
No problem! :)
Looking forward for more such videos 👌💯♥️🔝
Thanks. This one is amazing and super helpful for me 😀😅✨✨
Thanks for the video. My wife and I have been loosely discussing starting a company so this was helpful.
Good luck! You should do it :)
Sees an @gmail
Him: is this a peasant thing?
Besides informations that i get from this video, i was also entertained. Thank you Chris!
dude i gotta show you my new cards. they look like colored stainless steel. cards are important. everyone remembers my cards
Thnx man... For this piece of knowledge