register a business name or use your own name?

[pete_cf]

When i think of a photographer, I usually feel more connected with the ones which use their name as a website or business. I really want to get into a more business mindset, and wondering if to use just my name "Peter Morawski" (which is perfectly legal) or register "Peter Morawski Photography" or "Morawski Photo", or some other business name (which is torture to think of lol).

Using your name makes it more personal, having a company names makes it feel like your dealing with a big company. What do you guys use for your business purposes? Business name, or personal name?

[shaggymatt]

Not sure about in Canada, but here in PA, since I have my name in my business name, I don't need to file any DBA (doing business as) paperwork. It was just one less thing to take care of.

Think about the incorporation of your name into a catchy logo design. Is it something that can be worked up? Granted with money, anything can be done...

I don't think that having my name has made a single bit of difference in bookings. Maybe if you were called something like sub-contract studios it would.

[WinterWings]

I'm in Canada and i believe you have to register yourself as a business if its your full name or not to get your master business license and vedors permit. So its really just your preference of what you want to be known as. I know i made a name that fits the concept and style of my images, web site, business cards ect. It's also really easy to register as a business in ontario once you pick your name.

[Karl Johnston]

Just need a business license, no vendor permit required.

If you run from home then you need the permission of the home owner or landlord before you can set up a business in your home.

This causes difficulty if you're in a student residence or rental.

Using your own name is recommended and preferred since most photographers develop personal relationships with their clients

In my case, though, I do a bit more than just photography and I have a vision for more than just my personal photography services...see my about page for details (website in my link).

Though, sometimes I think using my own name would've worked just as well if not better