How to Be an Event Photographer

Good equipment gives you a photography advantage.

With ever more advanced features in basic cameras, many people fancy themselves photographers. That could be bad news for shutterbugs who hope to make a career out of event photography. So it's imperative that would-be event photographers demonstrate why their pictures stand apart from the crowd. What you lack in professional experience you need to make up for in time -- photographing events unpaid to build a portfolio -- and equipment that allows you to get the shots an amateur photographer cannot. Then, reach out to prospective clients.

Things You'll Need

• Camera and equipment
• Web domain
• Scrapbook
• Business cards

Instructions

Preparing Your Portfolio

1. Buy the best camera you can afford. Read reviews and speak to professionals about the best equipment. Purchase necessary add-ons for event photography -- extra batteries, extra memory sticks, rain gear and at least one high-quality zoom lens that will allow you to get detailed shots from a distance.

2. Take sample photographs at an array of events, including both indoor and outdoor events. Take advantage of events already on your social calendar, such as weddings or bar mitzvahs. Search community calendars for public outdoor events you can shoot, including Little League games, horse shows and community festivals.

3. Experiment with different shots at your practice events, including a wide variety of tight, detailed photos, wide shots and overhead pictures, if possible.

4. Ask family and friends to "hire" you for events. Offer them free event photography in exchange for a reference for your business. This adds to your burgeoning portfolio and gives you experience working with clients on a deadline.

5. Edit your shots in different ways. For example, put three of the same shots side-by-side, one in full color, one in spot color and one in black and white. This demonstrates your editing abilities, which often is important to clients who want unique photos of their event.

6. Purchase a Web domain with your name or the name of your photography business. Use a hosting service's tutorial or a professional to build an online portfolio to display your work. Split your online portfolio into different sections by event, such as weddings, birthday parties, sports and corporate events.

7. Print a selection of your photos and mount them in a sleek and professional-looking scrapbook. Carry this portfolio for clients who cannot or will not look at your work online.

Marketing

1. Order business cards for your photography venture. Include your phone number and e-mail, as well as your online portfolio URL. Pass out your business cards (with the client's permission) to other prospective clients at events. Keep cards with you at all times to hand out.

2. Spread the word among family and friends that you are starting an event photography business. Post reminders on your social media sites and ask friends to link to your website.

3. Print and hang fliers in local coffee shops, community message boards and other gathering places.

4. Contact local photography businesses to inquire about contract jobs. Many companies hire on an as-needed basis, and these gigs will help pad your portfolio, as well as provide professional feedback.

5. Follow up with all clients, asking them to keep you in mind for future events. Ask if they can recommend you to their friends and associates.

Tips & Warnings

• Ask every satisfied client to leave a reference on your website to further promote your photography business.

• Consider creating a dedicated e-mail address apart from your personal account to keep your business and personal e-mails separate.

• Shop online for a deal on business cards. Many companies offer inexpensive cards in bulk.

References

• Virtual Photography Studio: How Do I Become an Event Photographer
• Digital Photography School; Wedding Photography -- 21 Tips for Amateur Wedding Photographers; Darren Rowse
• Media College; Event Photography; March 2008