A good way to get started in professional photography is to offer your services to local organisations and businesses looking for the services of a talented and willing photographer.

Photography, whether as a hobby or as a profession is expensive, cameras, lenses, lighting, props and the myriad of other tools necessary to do a quality job can add up to a considerable sum of money. Yet, anyone who has a passion for photography and has arrived at the point of starting there own photography business has already invested in much of the necessary photographic studio equipment.

A Good business brain is equally as important as your photographic skills, remember, that building any business will require determination and commitment.

There are a number of free or low cost small business courses available that offer information on starting and running your business. Contacting your local Business Administration office is always a good place to begin, and it is advisable to consult a lawyer and accountant to avoid any serious business pitfalls.

Start by writing an effective business plan, and include a list of all the equipment and start up expenses you will need. Work out your current financial status and what you can reasonably afford to spend on your business start up.

Research and choose the most appropriate business operation (i.e. Sole Trader, Partnership, Corporation, Limited Liability Company, etc.), paying particular attention to the tax liabilities of your new business. The purchase of public indemnity insurance to insulate your business from financial loss due to possible litigation should also be in place.

Photography offers numerous opportunities and, with the ability to begin as a part-time venture and grow your business into a full-time career. In fact, many professional photographers began building their photography businesses while still employed full time elsewhere.

If your primary interest is portraiture, then setting up a small home studio is highly recommended, also find some great free locations were you can offer alternative settings. Controlling lighting and environment is trickier with location work, but the benefits of numerous site options for your clients far outweigh the drawbacks.

If you are interested in commercial work, a small studio set up in a shared office is a great way to keep costs low. If you prefer the great outdoors, and wildlife or landscape photography is your thing, then expensive studio equipment can wait.

Start marketing your business by distributing flyers, hand out business cards, develop and maintain a simple, elegant but functional website. Remember, your reputation as a professional photographer will grow and spread principally by word of mouth. So, make sure you offer only the best services and images to your clients. Following these basic steps will help you to turn your passion for photography into an income producing business you can be proud of.