How to set up your business?

[pugnugget]

I am looking at getting a business license and begin working for myself. (well, after I get off my normal day job of course) But for all those who have a photography business set up, i'm wondering how you set it up, like what type of licensing you did, and what forms, what insurance if any, and well.. just anything.

Basically, What do i need to do to cover my rear legally, and set up a good business? thanks.

[Vegas Poboy]

For me I tested the market first to see what I wanted to do
(Type of Work & portfolio) .

1)Then from there I built up my equipment inventory & most of all knowledge of the work I wanted to go after & contracts.

2) Created a business name, phone #, secured my domain name & started a website. The best way to show your work today is on the web. 98 %of the jobs I've received in the past year has been off of my web site. The site itself is not the best but the portfolio has to be good. Pricing of your services is a must. It depends on market value & the daily cost to keep the doors open if your going to open a studio.

3) Then I networked with other photographers and camera shop owners not only to learn the market but build up some trust due to some jobs you may get you have to have some dependable help.

4) Here in Vegas they want you to register a business name even before opening a bank account. Then off to the state sales tax people & then to your county or city office to apply for a license. Carefull when you apply I'm listed as freelance which gives me great flexablity. If you decided to open or use a studio there is more details involved.

Getting down to the basics You need a business plan and there is a few books out that may help I go to the local college and obtain alot of info from there.

Not saying this is the right or best way of doing it. It has worked well for me. Keeping records of income and expenses is another big issue.
Good Luck

[Dirty Shirt]

My CPA did everything when I started my consulting business. You might want to look into one.

[Mark_48]

Any recommendations for websites that might have some info specific to photographers starting out in the business? I'm seriously considering a consultation with an accountant to get a sense if I should consider starting a business or just remain as a "hobby" status with some occasional income. I'd just like to have some grasp of questions I should ask of him before I go.

Vegas Poboy, I copied and saved your advice. Thanks...

Mark......

Edit addition: I did a quick search and found this..

http://www.sba.gov/

which is probably a good starting point with alot of info.

[Vegas Poboy]

Any recommendations for websites that might have some info specific to photographers starting out in the business? I'm seriously considering a consultation with an accountant to get a sense if I should consider starting a business or just remain as a "hobby" status with some occasional income. I'd just like to have some grasp of questions I should ask of him before I go.

Vegas Poboy, I copied and saved your advice. Thanks...

Mark......

Edit addition: I did a quick search and found this..

http://www.sba.gov/

which is probably a good starting point with alot of info.

Take a look into the PPA www.ppa.com I just signed up lately @ the WPPI convention & I know some really good Pro's who belong to the group. They offer alot of good info.