Thinking a lot about the business of photography as I piece together my plan.... The whole photography field is upside down in terms of standard practices and rates, because of the advent of digital imaging. People have a hard time understanding the costs of the profession in the absence of film. Photographers are getting the short end of the stick since people don't always value the digital 'image capture' in the same light as they would film because it is not a durable good. They perceive the photographer not having much cost, simply because h/she does not have the purchase of film or the costs of processing when working digital. They often don't value the photographer's time, professional training, thousands of dollars worth of equipment or artistry. Photographers are often seen today as vendors of digital assets and not as artistic professionals. Microstock sites have become the go-to shopping center for art buyers and photographers no longer have stock photography as their 'pension', and are commissioned less and less for special assignments when so many images are available much cheaper online... From what I've read, Photo District News (PDN) is working on some surveys to get some idea what the perceptions are for going rates in the industry for all kinds of photographic services in the digital age of photography, to help clear the confusion and support the photographers. Everything from a basic head shot package, to weddings and retouch services.... This will help everyone from newbies to old pros, because it's a new terrain for everyone. It's a real conundrum and everyone is trying to find their way.
Another issue is that there are so many more people involved because of digital. Not needing to use a darkroom and having instant feedback on the image shot makes it an appealing hobby and and profession for many newcomers. Online communities like Flickr have certainly helped grow that interest for many people, I know because I'm one of them. I've had cameras since childhood, but being a digital designer, the digital explosion in photography has definitely been the fuel of my passion for it. Throw in a community of constantly changing content, feedback and interaction from fellow photographers all over the world is quite powerful! All of this means more photographers!
Meanwhile, back at the original blog topic... Because of the realities I've just babbled on about, starting a photo business is a little daunting.... The industry is in a state of flux, which puts even the veterans in a quandary. Certainly, basic things are still in play like bean counting, business plans, and liability insurance. (I'd hate to have a odel will trip on a sync cord and sue me for a scar on her prized cheek bone.) And of course, good old fashion communication skills are still in style. In photography, people skills are almost more important than knowing which aperture to use on a sunny day... At the end of the day, as a photographer, the interaction between you and subject is the most meaningful asset you have as a business person. You are chasing light AND a person's essence here.. (If you're photographing landscapes or wine bottles, you can maybe scratch that last line ;)
Another issue is that there are so many more people involved because of digital. Not needing to use a darkroom and having instant feedback on the image shot makes it an appealing hobby and and profession for many newcomers. Online communities like Flickr have certainly helped grow that interest for many people, I know because I'm one of them. I've had cameras since childhood, but being a digital designer, the digital explosion in photography has definitely been the fuel of my passion for it. Throw in a community of constantly changing content, feedback and interaction from fellow photographers all over the world is quite powerful! All of this means more photographers!
Meanwhile, back at the original blog topic... Because of the realities I've just babbled on about, starting a photo business is a little daunting.... The industry is in a state of flux, which puts even the veterans in a quandary. Certainly, basic things are still in play like bean counting, business plans, and liability insurance. (I'd hate to have a odel will trip on a sync cord and sue me for a scar on her prized cheek bone.) And of course, good old fashion communication skills are still in style. In photography, people skills are almost more important than knowing which aperture to use on a sunny day... At the end of the day, as a photographer, the interaction between you and subject is the most meaningful asset you have as a business person. You are chasing light AND a person's essence here.. (If you're photographing landscapes or wine bottles, you can maybe scratch that last line ;)