To Leap, Or Not To Leap
Over the past year or so I’ve been trying my best to practice taking pictures. The yoga studio I take photos for has helped so much in that way along with friends who have asked me to take pictures for them. I think I’ve found my favorite type of photography: portraits and lifestyle.
It’s kind of amazing how much the types of photography can vary too. They require various techniques, equipment, and set up. I think the eternal story teller in me, though, prefers doing the one-on-one type of photography because I get to know the individual(s) a little better. I get to tell a little bit of their story through photos.
Which leads me to wonder if I should get serious about registering and opening up my own little side business. At least I’d make a little extra money on the side to help pay for a list of items (sadly nothing exciting). Attempting to do so, however, requires a lot of paperwork, business plan, tax knowledge, and more. I’m sure I’ll even report a loss the first year, which is typical.
So is it worth it? I don’t know. But my gut sure thinks it is. So stay tuned.
The above picture was taken by me a few weeks ago of one of the yoga teachers whose class I try to attend weekly. He was so much fun to photograph!
Oh and if you do have any advice on starting a small business, please let me know!
Marie's Café 
DO IT!!! For what you’re doing, I don’t think you need a business plan. I don’t even have one. You can get started in seconds by requesting a EIN from the IRS and you can start off as a sole prop.
Really?? I think I may need to email you about this.
Definitely a tough decision but I know you’d be legit, so would go through all that hassle of being a business. Good luck with the decision!
Thanks Lisa!
What do you have to lose, lady? 🙂
All I worry about losing is money. And I hate paperwork (but that’s just me being lazy).
LEAP!!!!! Your photos are amazing! Go for it! I just signed up to donate a mini-session to our US Embassy auction, ay yi yi! We’ve got to take the leap some time right?!
Oh yay!! I know, but allllllllllllllllllllllll the paperwork. Plus tax filing. Plus paperwork.
I have no idea how difficult it is or is not to start a side business like this but I would definitely consult actual photogs about not to find out.
I’ve spoken to friends (in VA) who have their own small businesses and most of it is the same (paperwork to fill out, registering, etc.). I need to make a list of things I need to do and then just do it.