Expert: Don Wood - 9/27/2006

Question
Hello Mr. Wood:

I am being asked more frequently to take special occasion photographs, such as weddings, engagements, and for graduations.  However, I'm VERY novice (I'm a point-and-shooter compared to everyone on this forum, for instance....) so I have only used everyday photo printers such as Wal Mart and Target to get my prints.  I'm not pleased with the results and would like to know who real photographers use to send their pictures to.  Who do I ask or is there a way to search for such a thing?  Local photogs don't really want to give away their "secrets" - who should I trust to print?  And what would be a good rule to follow with markup on the cost for prints?  Any help would really be appreciated!  I've no idea what to start charging people for grad photos and what to offer, much less for weddings - especially when my prints come from a one-hour Wal Mart!  Thanks a bunch!


Answer
You will find that when you are taking pictures for free or a very low price, film and developing, that there will be lots of work, however, when you start charging for such things as equipment, food, rent, gas, and then you add in the profit margin you want that you will have less work to do.
Your question about photo labs is a very valid one. These can be found in an on-line search for professional photo labs. They will take on non-professionals, charging them the same price as they do the other photogs. If you are in a large city, you will find several that cater to the serious photog (professional). They will be in the telephone directory.
To succeed in this business you must have a good background and not just in photography. I would get a business background, possibly even going for the MBA. Then I would get the best equipment I could afford to start the business. You will find that there is a great difference between what you are using now and what you should be using. Part of that is to snow the customers but you will find that you will use the various differences more and more to produce the pics that make you different from the other pro photogs.
You will find that many will try to start working in the field but will quickly fall by the wayside when they are paying the bills with their photo income. It's estimated that of every 10 that start, by the end of the year, there may be one still working and that one may be gone by the end of the 2nd year. This is a good part-time job since the great majority of the work will be week-ends or evenings. Just remember that it's not just the difference between what you pay for the picture, processing and film but all the other costs. Other local photogs will not help you because you will be trying to capture a portion of their possible client base. Think of it, do you want to help someone that will erode your business.
Good luck, if I can help further, please let me know.