What do I need?

[caroleigh]

I've been shooting my kids sports and have not yet really been in business.

I seen a local ad stating they are looking for a youth action photographer to shoot their tournaments throughout the season. They are looking for action shots and team and individual shots.

I know I am interested in the action part of it but I'm worried about the team/individual part.

I have a friend who is an amature photog who would be willing to help me out ... she would do more of the business aspect of it.

What do I need to be successful in the team/individual part?

Thanks in advance.

[fslshooter]

Your 40D, Tamron 28-75 and 580ex will probably do the job.

[caroleigh]

How do I go about choosing the items to offer (like memory plates etc) and how do I get the order forms/pamphlets made?

[fslshooter]

If I were you I'd start with things you're familiar with producing -- such as prints in standard sizes (4x6, 5x7 and 8x10). Whoever prepared the ad that you saw probably has specific requirements too so be sure and ask them what they want you to offer. You might also want to prepare a simple questionnaire that you pass out to parents in the beginning that asks what they'd like for you to offer. The friend you mentioned who'll help you with the business side might have suggestions so be sure and ask her too. Your maximum profits will probably come from things that are 1) Easiest for you to produce because you'll have the least amount of time invested in them and 2) From bulk sales because it's easier and less time consuming to make multiple copies rather than individual copies of a product.

As for order forms and pamphlets start with stuff you can print yourself. If and when business justifies it you might want to consider having these printed by a commercial printer -- you'll also have a better idea of what you want them to look like if you've already used some that you made yourself. IMO business cards are essential for almost everyone who conducts any sort of business so be sure and hand them out at venues you shoot. You can either design and print business cards yourself or have them made commercially -- I've done both.

Don't expect to make a profit in the beginning. Most businesses operate at a loss when they first start and those who survive usually offer better service and/or higher quality products than their competitors and at fair but not necessarily the least price.

[caroleigh]

Thanks for all the info!

[dawiyo]

If you ever make it up to harford county, let me know

[Tigershark]

For T&I make sure you write down each kids picture number on the order form so the person processing doesn't get confused. For action shots have fun, if you can get a schedule of the games it does help in the back end processing. Have fun

[hardcorewaterfowl]

The company looking for help will probably just need you to shoot pics and nothing else at the games. They will have there own viewing/printing setup there and you just hand them your memory card after the game and drop in another one and go shoot another game.

[caroleigh]

I'm not far from Harford County. I'm sure my son will be in some tournaments.

Do you shoot any baseball tournaments up there?

If you ever make it up to harford county, let me know