Starting a Wedding Photography Business

I have been into photography for 20 years. I just started weddings. Your age could possibly be a turn away for some, but don't let it stop you.

Confidence is the single most important element for any job, whether it is wedding photography, or a managment position at McDonalds. You seem to have it. There are many who have to work hard to be wedding photographers, for some it comes naturally and is a joy. Watch out for those who will tell you it's hard work. It is for them, but may not be for you.

For me... I had been told that it was hard work... it doesn't seem to be for me. My past jobs (that are not remotely photography related) have helped me to deal with people, a very important element. If you have the eye and the ability, experience is the only thing that will help. I say go for it.

I advertised on craigslist.com for cost and already did one wedding from craigslist, and have 4 booked within the next month and a half. This is a great way to build a portfolio. Just be up front and honest with clients. I have only done 5 (non-relative) weddings to date, and had a blast doing them. But they all went as expected: A few issues, but handled them beautifully. The best experience you will ever get.

I don't believe that there is a "right way" to persue wedding photography. Ten out of ten people will persue it very differently. We all have different styles, and different people skills. In the end, people skills will be the one element that will put food on the table.

Your going to work your butt off whether your shooting weddings, or working in an office. Try something you love regardless of your age. I say give craigslist a shot before even considering a mentor, or further education. See if it is not "hard work" for you first, and if it is indeed something that you want to invest your time into and persue. Then persue it how you see fit to mold your style.

JMHO

Craigslist is a great idea - thanks. I'm not sure how popular it is in Columbus, but I'll definitely give it a try.

Its not that its hard, but it is time consuming (youll spend a half hour on one photo cloning out loose hairs and blemishes and all kinda of little things) and it can be stressful, if you miss something important, youre dead.

All in all its not a bad way to try to earn a living, just keep at it.

Any ideas for advertising outside of craiglist? How much would be a good starting price that would say 'I'm a good photographer but inexperienced - you can't be mad if I mess up'?

I'm in awe - his web site is incredible. Does anyone know him?

Stacie

I actually found out that David Jay and I have a mutual friend, so I do, in a way.

I Live in Columbus, I'd be more than happy to help out another POTN member!

I have a wedding this weekend! Anyway PM me and I'll see if I can help!

he was a friend of many of my roomates as they went to college together, and shot some of their weddings. I never had the opportunity to meet with him, but from what I know he's a great guy. Certainly has made a name for himself, which is from a combination of a lot of things put together well.

mackb, I sent a PM yesterday - did you get it?

5:24 A.M...............man that's early!

I know I'm a little late in response to this forum, but I would agree, work under a professional and learn what you can. You could shoot maybe events on your own (birthday parties, graduations, etc), until people feel more comfortable with you and your age. Events will help you build a portfolio. I'm a firm believer that age shouldn't matter, the quality of your work is what should matter, but then again yesterday someone (who was ready to hire me over the phone) decided not to hire me because I looked to young. She must have brought up my age at least 20 different times during our hour long meeting. So while it should be your portfolio that sells you, it isn't always the case. Explore your connections, you will get there!

Just a thought. I'm afraid you're too young to enter into a legal contract... at least in this country. So unless someone is willing to hire a 17 year old to take their wedding pics with a handshake you may want to get a little more experience and think about it next year.

I just shot my first wedding two weeks ago based on an ad I placed on Craigslist. I was honest with the client that theirs would be my first wedding and they knew my age, but they loved the samples of my other work and we really clicked. They come back from their honeymoon this week and I cant wait to show them the images! It was a relatively simple wedding to shoot because of the conditions (no dark churches, etc) but if it hadnt been I wouldnt have taken the job. I think as long as you are honest and the client knows what to expect, you will be fine. But assisting a pro definitely sounds like a good idea.

EDIT: I'm not sure if anyone's already mentioned this, but it's my understanding that until you are 18, any wedding contract you sign with a client would not be legally binding, as minors cannot legally enter into a contractual agreement in the United States (w/out a parent or guardian)