Freelance?

Question

I want to set my self up as a freelance Photographer, can anyone give me advice on where to start. Like sorting out a porfolio to getting work.

Answer 1

Rough life here are some things to try. First, you will need to have real talent with a camera. You will also need to be energetic and self-directed. Many freelance Photographers find that they devote the majority of their time to running their business, rather than actually taking photographs. Hours may be long and unpredictable, and there may be long periods with little or no work. (It sound like I'm trying to talk you out of this. I'm not! I love the idea that you will make a great success of photography, just want to give you a realistic view of the situations you will face.)

To be a successful freelancer you must be multi-skilled and very proactive. A freelancer is a small business and as such you must be able to manage finances and undertake research, marketing and administration as well as doing the job itself. In addition, you must be prepared to take responsibility for your own professional development, pension, professional and personal insurances, taxes and health and safety requirements. For more background information:

http://www.freelanceuk.com/photographers/index.shtml

There aren 't enough people in the world doing what they love for a living. I hope you will soon be one of them.
VERY BEST OF LUCK!

Answer 2

You CAN make a go of it... I suggest that you have enough money to live on as a base and then go freelance. And there are all kinds of freelance from stock shooters to photojournalists who actually write as well as shoot.

The book,"Photographer's Market 2007" is a good place to start... it will give you the info you need on how to contact magazines, greeting card companies and stock agencies,

It will take a combination of work to make real good money. The safest bet is to become a great wedding or event photographer... they have the most steady income... shoot for stock on the side... post your stock to a web page and promote it to potential buyers. Sell the rights but not the image.... always retain copyright to your work.

You will work for your money... freelancing is not an easy job... you may want to invest in some lighting and have a portable studio to do portfolio shots and portraits. Kids and pets are a great market with repeat business.

Give it a go.... just be prepared for it to start slow...

good luck...

beaux

Answer 3

Start local. At first offer your services for free (or costs) to get some references and feedback and see what all work you have to do.
Give yourself imaginary assignments and go take a series of photos for each to build up a portfolio - depending on what type of freelancer you want to be.
Make up cards and pass them around.
Make a website.
Think local for business.
(And don´t give up your day job until you are overwhelmed with assignments.)

Answer 4

I think on http://www.workfromhome-at.com/freelance.html you can find some info about freelancing.

Answer 5

just get out there start snapping with luck get good shots then sell them to the media