Everyone is a photographer

I just read an article by Keith Cooper which raises some interesting information for all of the hobby photographers out there who are thinking of going pro. The article is titled "Photography...I can do that."

In this article Keith makes very general observations about professional photographers and their businesses which he has noticed makes many would-be's squirm or run.

I would say his article could be even more realistic in giving just a few numbers as well. For example:

*The average start up cost (assuming the would be pro already has a pro-level camera) for a photography business is $10,000. This can be a little less for wedding photographers and a whole lot more for portrait photographers. If you need to buy a pro level camera add $3-4,000 to that.

*As soon as you are ready to become a business, be ready to fork over $200 or more to the state in which you are basing your business, and another $100 to $150 in each state you plan to do business.

*Depending on what type of business you want to become, be ready to pay estimated taxes within your first 3 months of business. Most people don't think about it, but the government sure will!

Keith Cooper has many great articles on his blog for those thinking about taking their photography to the Professional level. I highly recommend reading them, and if you don't faint, choke, or run away screaming, you are probably ready to take the next step.