Getting down to business...

I have been debating a lot of things to help in building a successful photography business and looking for any insight from others who have been through these initial stages. Any help from fellow photographers would be appreciated :)

I'm thinking of doing/buying the following:

1. Registering in an online Business Administration Diploma with SAIT

Has anyone taken this course either online or in classroom? Any advice about how it would benefit or courses that are crucial to running a business?

2. Buying studio lighting

Any advice on brand? What do you consider your ESSENTIAL tools for a studio photo shoot?

3. Purchasing backdrops

Any opinions on different materials of backgrounds or what you use in certain situations....muslin? seamless paper roll? Canvas? Green screen? What size would be beneficial for all sizes of groups (including dance group portraits)?

I just purchased a Manfrotto backdrop stand and a 9' roll of studio grey paper backdrop (WOOOO new gear!!!!), but I am still looking for opinions on type and what you like best!

4. Studio space

Does anyone have a current studio? Do you want a location that could potentially have a lot of walk-in clients? Any advice on studio space and size of space would be appreciated!

5. Purchasing another lens

If I am working in a studio and doing portraits, what lens would you recommend? 24-70mm so I have a range? Fixed lens? I currently own a 50mm 1.4 and a 70-200mm (not a great lens). Looking to invest in some quality lenses that can be used for a lot of different styles of photography.

6. Marketing

Any great marketing tools that people are willing to share? I have a few ideas from books and research but haven't personally tried any of them, so looking for someone with experience in this area!

7. Photography seminars and mentoring sessions

I have been doing a lot of research in this area and have found MANY different online courses and mentoring sessions all over the place. Has anyone taken any really good ones that they would recommend? I want to spend money where I know I will get out quality information out of it. Could be a risk I have to take, but seeing if anyone else out there has maybe been here before wondering the same thing?!

Any information and advice anyone has, whether business or photography related would be appreciated as I am looking to really build something off my passion. Thanks so much!

M

New props!

So, due to the fact that I was in Vancouver, BC for the whole weekend and just today got myself organized (finally!), I did not post my usual Sunday update. Someday soon I will be organized enough to commit to Sunday blogging time!

I wanted to let everyone know that I have received all kinds of new props for baby shoots (as family members are expecting and I want to be ready to snap the little cuties' pictures)!

Anyone interested in baby portraits or the maternity/baby combo, are welcome to send me a message (Facebook, email, website, blog) to inquire about pricing!

Below, I have included pictures of the new props on hand, with more on the way!

I am very excited to start jumping into more creative and fun photo shoots with little ones and using my NEW PROPS!

Let me know if you would like to book a baby session.

M

Procrastinator....not usually in my vocabulary of words that describe me!

So it is now March and the time has flown by. I don't even remember February, except that I went on a wonderful vacation with my boyfriend, Brad!

I mentioned back in January that I would be doing the "12 for 2012" project and have not been keeping everyone in the loop or sharing anything to do with it. I apologize. This post is dedicated to just that...catching everyone up to March! I will also keep up on posting every Sunday so don't give up on me yet!

January brought great new ideas and I tried my first self portrait. My sister got me the greatest camera tool ever (remote shutter release) for Christmas and I used it in my self portrait back in January! It turned out wonderfully and have shared it below for you to comment and critique!

February was busy and exhausting. Thankfully, I got a relaxing trip in Palm Springs and visited Joshua Tree National Park. I captured a beautiful silhouette photo of Brad just before sunset, and I realized my skills with silhouettes are improving. Any feedback would still be appreciated though!

March has allowed lots of time to try new things, so when I figure out a technique or idea I would like to share, I will definitely do so. New techniques or ideas to try are always welcome!

Until next week....