Steve: How did you get into the photography business?
Lindsay: I got more serious about photography as a hobby and I enjoyed learning how to take the best images I could possibly take. I studied techniques and photo editing everyday so I decided to offer "free shoots" to some friends to see if I still enjoyed it when the subjects weren't my own child, etc. I really did enjoy taking photos for others, I just loved the reactions from people because they were really appreciative to have the photos and they're something that they can enjoy for the rest of their lives. That's when I decided to start the business officially.
How did you decide to make it a career and has it been profitable?
I already have a couple part time jobs, but I like the flexibility of everything. I shoot mainly on the weekends and just started charging my full prices a couple months ago. So far business has been great. I get many inquires and I already have a few bookings for next year. Profits this year haven't been amazing mainly because I've shot at discounted prices in order to build my portfolio.
What's your favorite subjects to shoot and why do you enjoy shooting them?
Portraits because I like to get creative. Babies have been really fun, especially before they can crawl because you can pose them easily. I like doing portraits because I can tweak colors and settings and even creative textures in photoshop later.
Has the economic downturn affected your business in any way?
I've launched during the economic downturn and I'm still finding customers so I guess that's good.
Do you find the work fulfilling?
Definitely. It's my favorite job. Photo editing can get tedious sometimes, but it's all worth it.
What equipment do you generally use?
I enjoy using natural light, a Canon 50d and a prime lens, usually my 50 1.4 or my 85 1.2. I try to keep flash out of it at most costs by bumping up the ISO if necessary. If I do use flash I use a Canon Speedlite 580EX II and I diffuse the flash or bounce it off of a wall. I try to use flash only as fill so that it's hardly ever the main source of light.
This works because I don't have a studio yet and do all my shoots on location.
How has the internet impacted your business?
The internet rocks. I have a background in internet marketing so I know how to build websites, advertise easily and use social media for advertising. I post some previews from my sessions on Facebook when clients allow it. My friends see these photos and they usually remember to recommend me when they know of someone who needs a portrait photographer.
How hard is it to sell your photos?
It's easy to sell photos because I charge a lot for a CD of digital files. If people are paying a session fee they'll be buying their prints through me as well. I have affordable prices so there hasn't been much complaining.
What do you find to be the most challenging aspect of photography?
I don't feel that I'm quick enough or completely comfortable in manual mode. Sometimes on a shoot I'll forget to check that I'm getting everything the way I'd like it. I can get pretty scared of messing up.
Finally, do you have any advice for aspiring photographers looking to turn their hobby into a career?
Just keep practicing as much as you can. Find other photographer friends and ask them if you can come with them to a shoot. When I was starting out I found that a lot of professionals discouraged people from the profession and I'm not sure why. I love it and think everyone that wants to do it should do it.
- Lindsay Moretti is a stay-at-home mom and professional photographer based in Jupiter, Florida. To learn more about her photography or to contact her, visit http://www.lindsaybrynnphotography.com/
