What would it take to start my own portrait studio?

Question

This is something I really would love to do. What would it take and how much would it cost?

Answer 1

ok we assume you know lights and lghting - actually the lack of information in the question is not helpfull

so i assume you have attended photography school or worked as an assistant? but if you did you would know the answer to the question, studio numbers are declining i hear........

you need 2 DSLR bodies, a film body if you want to do anything like 3200iso gritty b+ws - and the correct lenses

you need stobes and lights, tripods, back grounds, a grunty computer

but what you need most is business and photography skills

a

Answer 2

Antoni is right, portrait studio photography is seriously in decline.
Unfortunately Wal-mart and other chain type studio's really crush the small guy's on the price point. Huge start up costs for all associated equip., including everything from lighting to backgrounds to props, to camera's and lenses, and most importantly for portraiture, the ability to develop a rapport with the client, as you'll never get a good shot of someone if they're uncomfortable.
Also, steer clear of those Internet ad's about making X many dollars in one weekend with your camera, I made that mistake...
I'd advise not to specialize and practice achieving quality results with a variety of subjects. Photographers that are in high demand have one thing in common, consistent high quality results. The only way I know of to get there is to put in your time.

Answer 3

What he said.....plus insurance, insurance, insurance.