If you’re skilled with a camera, whether it’s taking photos, videos, or editing footage, then you have a highly marketable skill. It’s many people’s dream to use their creative minds to further their careers, and your camera can provide you with the ideal opportunity to do so. Here’s how you can start a business based on your camera skills.

 

 

Pick Your Niche

The chances are that, if you’ve picked up a camera, you’ve already focused your skills in one area. If you plan on starting a business, then it’s even more important that you focus on a specific niche. 

You are, essentially, selling a product and you can only ensure the best service if you focus on something. Different niches require different equipment and skills to excel. For example, you can separate camera work into photography and videography.

While a decent camera can take okay photographs and videos alike, if you plan on working as a professional, then you will need specialized equipment to make sure that you deliver a professional end product. For example, a videographer will need to capture sound as well as film. 

However, there are even more specific niches within this industry. Here are some popular career options:

• Wedding photographer/videographer
• Commercial photographer/videographer
• Drone operator
• Photo/video editor
• Portrait photographer
• Family/Baby/Pet photographer
• Event photographer/videographer
• Travel photographer
• Youtube videographer

You can also use your camera for other careers. Bloggers that double as photographers or videographers can enjoy an extra boost in their business thanks to professional quality photos and videos.

 

The Right Equipment

 

As mentioned above, while a great deal of your success will depend on your skills as a camera operator, editor, and entrepreneur, your equipment has a huge impact on your career. Unfortunately, this equipment is incredibly expensive, which means that you will have to make an initial investment in your gear before you can start your business.

You should always research what equipment you need and make sure that you know how to use it. Don’t fall into the trap of only getting the cheapest thing that will technically work for you, but also avoid splashing out on equipment that you don’t actually need. 

As you get more established and work more in your industry, you will be able to invest in different equipment. You will also become more familiar with what would be helpful. For example, a reticle can allow you to calibrate your camera more precisely, improving the ease and quality of your videos.

You should also become more familiar with photo and video editing software. Even if the bulk of your skills lie in taking photos, being able to edit your photos and videos can allow you to deliver a far more professional product. It also cuts down on the costs of hiring a separate editor.