Wtf? I wanted some tips about how to be successful as a photographer and you gave me a guideline on how to build a business from what I love doing. Also you don't mess around, you went straight to the point. Thanks man.
There is some sage advice in this video. I picked up a camera twenty-five years ago and started shooting professionally (portraits) in the last five - all while maintaining a full-time career. Taken in steps and with moderation - you can and will succeed.
Yes, you're right. People shouldn't be dropping their regular job to focus on photography. Nowadays, cameras are affordable to anyone and the competition is just too high to succeed fast.
Actually, this worked out for me. I saved up quite a bit and dove straight into it and now I'm doing very well. Competition doesn't exist - or at least, that's how I think about it! It definitely is a slow process though, but that's okay!
9:15 Can confirm, I've been on this earth over half a century and I've seen a lot of people that most would consider very successful that have very good paying jobs, own a nice property, drive a nice late model car and have all the intelligence and imagination of a common house cat. But they are motivated, dedicated, and persistent and they suit up and show up when it's required.
Genuinely needed this. I'm currently working a software job and always question if I made the right choice to take photography as a side hustle rather than make it my everything.
Thanks! I liked this video and the conclusion about the "passive participant" quote. I have had this problem forever about pushing back because this or that was not perfect. Now I constantly remind myself that "done is better than perfect". After 10 years of practicing photography as a hobby, I have become professional (as a side job first because it is possible to register officially and have a day to day job here). Allows me to grow this business at my own pace with less pressure.
I have recently been on a youtube photography channel binge. You are the best so far. You are quick, concise, and informative. Thank you for your fill agent work. Your work ethic bought you a new subscriber 👍
I’m glad you decided to create this video. I’ve been wanting to take big steps to add that pressure to myself, so that I’d finally turn this into an actual business, but felt like I was aiming too high and doing it backwards. For me it’s a total ADHD thing. If I don’t have that pressure then I’ll never get around to it. Need the fire under my butt. Anyways, I’m glad you suggested it because I feel more validated in my plans. Thanks again.
Straight to the point. Love the video. My only problem is getting consistent clients and a lot of clients here are super cheap here compared to everywhere else
Glad it was helpful. It's tough to find the high-quality clients that are willing to pay a premium when starting out, have to filter through them over a long period of time
Hi, I’d also recommend for those getting going to look at what other income streams they have potential for and create an umbrella corporation. I’m a gardener so I have a generic UK Ltd company name and I’m listed as an artist. I then have several “trading as” personas under that. One is as a photographer and videographer, sound recordist and one is as a gardener. I’m a horticultural photographer so it’s perfectly legitimate to earn income as a gardener which buys lenses etc for the photography. You could be a tailor and a photographer as long as everything is recorded correctly there shouldn’t be an issue. This might help some get going with earning to set up the business whilst still paying the rent. You can keep them separate and no customer needs to conflate the two businesses and think you’re not as professional as they thought.
It's a relief to hear someone say that as I just quit my job to focus on my photography and felt like I'd maybe rushed into it. I'm planning on doing a part-time job on the side and am also building an online tutoring course so I guess as long as you're smart with money and how you market yourself everything works out :)
Wow, that was a roller coaster pep talk session. You speak so well, so to the point, that I can't feel relieved enough for how well you've made this video. I keep pointing out to other youtubers to keep their videos short & to the point. They should learn from you. And anytime I need to lift up my mood and get the blood and adrenalin rushing around inside me, I'll watch your video. That is how effective it is.
Hey Kevin! Great video! I will also add, as an accountant, that you actually CANNOT report a loss as a business for more than 3 tax years in a row, and no more than 3/5 tax years. This video was really well-put-together. Did you study business at some point?
Hope all is well with you I have been watching your videos with my sons I have always been interested in photography but just never looked into seriously but recently I have started to think about it again my 14 year old is interested in media arts and he also draws so I was thinking this would be a great business to start since we both enjoy it are there any suggestions you could give me or any classes me and my son can take together you suggestion I am going to buy two cameras and lens next month do you recommend getting the same camera for me and my son? Sorry for such a long message excuse this 54 year old for rambling on so long God bless and have a great evening! We have an eta of six months
I love how you totally glossed over the fact that you need to do marketing, and I'm not really sure why you did that. It doesn’t matter if you are the best photographer in the world and you have all these plans implemented if you don't have a way for people to know who you are or to be seen or to appear on Google search. Simply relying on SEO alone won't be enough. The sad reality is that you'll need to invest in marketing, and it's important to address this in your videos. In fact, it's crucial to be prepared to spend about $500-$1000 a month for the first three months to truly gain significant traction. This is valuable information that I wish I had known when I first started, and I believe including it in your videos would greatly benefit aspiring photographers like yourself.
I didn't reference 'marketing' (which I assume is your way of describing pay-per-click advertising) because it would be an extremely misleading generalization. The effectiveness of paid marketing is niche-specific. In my experience, organic marketing has been much more effective than paying Google or Facebook to promote my work. Word of mouth has done a lot more to advance my sports and real estate portfolio than advertising ever has. If you're shooting 'people-oriented' work like weddings or headshots, then it's a different story. But to insinuate that I'm an 'aspiring photographer' because I didn't want to mislead some viewers into wasting hundreds of dollars puts you in the wrong, not me.
@@kevinraposo Certainly! Apologies for the confusion earlier. You make valid points about the limitations of organic marketing and the intricacies of algorithms on social media platforms and search engines like Google. Achieving consistent success through word of mouth alone is undoubtedly a stroke of luck, and it’s important not to generalize such experiences. For many photographers, especially those operating in competitive markets, a comprehensive marketing strategy that includes paid advertising becomes crucial for establishing a sustainable income. Understanding SEO, algorithm workings, and utilizing proper strategies are indeed essential for leveraging platforms effectively. While your personal achievements are commendable, it’s important to acknowledge that relying solely on word of mouth or organic methods may not yield the same results for everyone. Each photographer’s journey is unique, and various factors such as market size, competition, and target audience come into play. Balancing both organic and paid marketing approaches can offer a more comprehensive approach to reach a wider audience and attract potential clients who may not have otherwise discovered your work. It’s about finding the right mix that suits your specific circumstances, leveraging the benefits of both approaches. So, while your experience is valuable and should be celebrated, it’s essential to recognize the broader landscape and the potential benefits that paid advertising can bring to a photographer’s career, depending on their market and goals.
Also, let’s be clear I wasn’t insinuating anything from my interpretation of your video. It seemed like you were talking in black-and-white terms, which I hope you know that would be incorrect. The days of simply just getting clients organically are over and if you got your business primarily because of that, you are extremely fortunate my friend, you’ve been blessed by the gods …🤙🏼👍🏼
1:14, as you said initially, find your niche. But in case one has an interest in portraits, street photography, landscape, like travelling and taking photos and at home like to learn nuances and do photography of still life and products. Then, what should one do? What you will suggest!!
Thank you so much for providing content that holds up to the test of time. I don't know how many accounts I've followed tat jump on the hypetrain of a style or topic of video that is obsolete 6 months later. This is definitely playing the youtube "long game" and I applaud you for it. Gained subscriber about 2 years after this video was posted. That says something. Thank you again!
You got a like and sub from me! thanks for the motivating video! I was trying to find videos on how to get started with Photography Workshops but this was really helpful as well :) I know I am capable of turning my passion into something more but I often feel as if I am a passenger in my own life, simply observing, not taking action or putting in the effort to get to the next step. I think it has a lot to do with not having enough pressure/deadlines. I am getting happily desperate now though. Thanks again, Kevin Bobby
They have a 200-600 and a 100-400, both with variable apertures - they currently do not have a 200-400 or any other super-telephoto zoom with a fixed aperture
I came into this video thinking I will be learning about just cameras and lenses, but you over delivered! Great value! Thanks so much Kevin for the video! I definitely will be revisiting this video soon! +1 Sub!
Not gunna lie. I subbed because I am a fan of flashing the major talking points in the beginning, so thanks, you hooked me with that 🤘 then, you also mentioned my goal to shoot for national geographic lmao. I clicked subscribe immediately
That fake ad segment had me going xD
it was hilarious, subbed!
@@barrakelmahmoud Lol. Already got so used to Squarspace ads EVERYWHERE.
Wtf? I wanted some tips about how to be successful as a photographer and you gave me a guideline on how to build a business from what I love doing. Also you don't mess around, you went straight to the point. Thanks man.
I appreciate it, glad it was helpful!
I thought this comment was mad for a second 😂
There is some sage advice in this video. I picked up a camera twenty-five years ago and started shooting professionally (portraits) in the last five - all while maintaining a full-time career. Taken in steps and with moderation - you can and will succeed.
Appreciate it, glad you found it helpful!
Yes, you're right. People shouldn't be dropping their regular job to focus on photography. Nowadays, cameras are affordable to anyone and the competition is just too high to succeed fast.
Actually, this worked out for me. I saved up quite a bit and dove straight into it and now I'm doing very well. Competition doesn't exist - or at least, that's how I think about it! It definitely is a slow process though, but that's okay!
Persistence is very important!
@@RyanHarville yeah competition does not exist. People gone go to anybody
How did you land your first client? Getting into photography I would appreciate some info thanks 👍
What if I’m rich and retired and want to travel and have a photography business ? That’s my goal
That is one of the very transparent speech, on photography I have ever watched, thanks to you Mr.Kevin Raposo...keep up the good work and stay happy.
9:15 Can confirm, I've been on this earth over half a century and I've seen a lot of people that most would consider very successful that have very good paying jobs, own a nice property, drive a nice late model car and have all the intelligence and imagination of a common house cat. But they are motivated, dedicated, and persistent and they suit up and show up when it's required.
Genuinely needed this. I'm currently working a software job and always question if I made the right choice to take photography as a side hustle rather than make it my everything.
Glad it was helpful!
Thanks! I liked this video and the conclusion about the "passive participant" quote. I have had this problem forever about pushing back because this or that was not perfect. Now I constantly remind myself that "done is better than perfect". After 10 years of practicing photography as a hobby, I have become professional (as a side job first because it is possible to register officially and have a day to day job here). Allows me to grow this business at my own pace with less pressure.
Best way to grow your business without risk is as a side hustle, I will always stand by that
I have recently been on a youtube photography channel binge. You are the best so far. You are quick, concise, and informative. Thank you for your fill agent work. Your work ethic bought you a new subscriber 👍
appreciate it, glad you enjoyed the videos!
I’m glad you decided to create this video. I’ve been wanting to take big steps to add that pressure to myself, so that I’d finally turn this into an actual business, but felt like I was aiming too high and doing it backwards. For me it’s a total ADHD thing. If I don’t have that pressure then I’ll never get around to it. Need the fire under my butt. Anyways, I’m glad you suggested it because I feel more validated in my plans. Thanks again.
Glad it was helpful!
I’m beginning my journey into photography and this video was amazing. Thanks for the grounded advice and burst of inspiration!
Glad to hear it!
how has it gone this far?
learned a lot from this. thanks!
This is the best youtube tutorial i have ever encountered.
Best video I have seen in years.
I appreciate it, glad it was helpful!
Straight to the point. Love the video.
My only problem is getting consistent clients and a lot of clients here are super cheap here compared to everywhere else
Glad it was helpful. It's tough to find the high-quality clients that are willing to pay a premium when starting out, have to filter through them over a long period of time
Hi, I’d also recommend for those getting going to look at what other income streams they have potential for and create an umbrella corporation. I’m a gardener so I have a generic UK Ltd company name and I’m listed as an artist. I then have several “trading as” personas under that. One is as a photographer and videographer, sound recordist and one is as a gardener. I’m a horticultural photographer so it’s perfectly legitimate to earn income as a gardener which buys lenses etc for the photography. You could be a tailor and a photographer as long as everything is recorded correctly there shouldn’t be an issue. This might help some get going with earning to set up the business whilst still paying the rent. You can keep them separate and no customer needs to conflate the two businesses and think you’re not as professional as they thought.
Great piece of advice!
It's a relief to hear someone say that as I just quit my job to focus on my photography and felt like I'd maybe rushed into it. I'm planning on doing a part-time job on the side and am also building an online tutoring course so I guess as long as you're smart with money and how you market yourself everything works out :)
2:47 I think that all camera brands are great...it's just what suits you and your style, that matters.
great video...I subscribed
this is the video ive been looking for! thank you this helps soooo much. i had no idea where to begin!
glad it was so helpful!
Last quote was perfect
This is one of the better videos I have seen on the subject. Thanks for such a great video that will help a lot of people.
Am really thankful I know how I will start my business when I arrive to the USA
glad it was helpful!
OMG !!! just found this and honestly, this is one of the best inspiration video i've watched so far
Thank you for putting this video together.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Thank You Kevin.
Great content.
You earned yourself a new subscriber!
Welcome aboard!
Wow, that was a roller coaster pep talk session. You speak so well, so to the point, that I can't feel relieved enough for how well you've made this video. I keep pointing out to other youtubers to keep their videos short & to the point. They should learn from you. And anytime I need to lift up my mood and get the blood and adrenalin rushing around inside me, I'll watch your video. That is how effective it is.
This comment means a lot, greatly appreciate it and glad you enjoyed the video!
Can’t agree more. Get the point
Nice video! Great presentation. No nonsense and straight to the point.
Thank you, appreciate it!
One of the best videos I‘ve seen here! Thanks for the straight and crispy infos!
glad it was helpful!
OMG !!! just found this and honestly, this is one of the best inspiration video i've watched so far 👌
glad it was helpful!
I arrived here from grace torres channel. I am a web developer webdesigner for photographers, so it's nice to see your channel
glad it was helpful!
Nice video. You're concise and have a really practical mindset which gave me a good foundation for planning my own endeavor!
Hey Kevin! Great video! I will also add, as an accountant, that you actually CANNOT report a loss as a business for more than 3 tax years in a row, and no more than 3/5 tax years. This video was really well-put-together. Did you study business at some point?
I appreciate the kind words! No previous business study, just learned experiences over time
@@kevinraposo Your experience shows! I'll definitely subscribe.
Very informative and straight to the point, love it, thank you!
Glad it was helpful!
Dear really awesome comparison for amateur photographers: who's must focus on Photography not on equipment.
Thanks I really really wanna specialize on the photography business
Helpful! Thank you!!! Especially info on how to choose the camera body.
No problem, glad it was helpful!
Excellent video. Any video's or tips on starting a small product photography business?
Thank you very much!
This is such a valuable help as I am about to start a photography business with my sister. Keep it up! 💯 💜
glad it was helpful!
Thanks for the knowledge. Wish you the best!
glad it was helpful!
Great clip. So true about the ecosystem!
Appreciate it!
Outstanding consistent material! Thank you Kevin.
glad it was helpful!
Excellent advice! Thank you so much!!!
glad it was helpful!
Really good video. As a successful business owner, you are spot on and your advice has real depth.
I sometimes lose perspective when I'm scripting these videos and question what I'm saying - always helps to hear feedback like this. I appreciate it!
Yeah this made me subscribe…very well put together video
Appreciate it, glad it was helpful!
Thank you, dude.
This is amazing
glad it was helpful!
Thanks Kevin
glad it was helpful!
Thank you so much
Love this, thank you so much! ❤
You're so welcome!
Thank you 🙏🏼
This was a great video! Thanks for the great quality video!
glad it was helpful!
Great video and very good tips! I love learning more about filmmaking and starting up my business would be a great experience.
Glad it was helpful!
Thanks for the wonderful video man ✌️✌️
glad it was helpful!
Nice video I totally agree with you. Love that you're straight to the point...
I appreciate it, thanks for watching and glad you enjoyed the video!
Good stuff, Kevin. Thanks.
Thanks for the feedback!
Hope all is well with you I have been watching your videos with my sons I have always been interested in photography but just never looked into seriously but recently I have started to think about it again my 14 year old is interested in media arts and he also draws so I was thinking this would be a great business to start since we both enjoy it are there any suggestions you could give me or any classes me and my son can take together you suggestion I am going to buy two cameras and lens next month do you recommend getting the same camera for me and my son? Sorry for such a long message excuse this 54 year old for rambling on so long God bless and have a great evening! We have an eta of six months
HAHAHAHAHAHHHAA lolled hard at "nah this isn't sponsored by squarespace" part. Cheeky humour, great editing choice
glad it gave you a laugh, I'll admit I was trying not to laugh myself while filming. appreciate it!
Thank you for the video. Great content and to the point!
I love how you totally glossed over the fact that you need to do marketing, and I'm not really sure why you did that. It doesn’t matter if you are the best photographer in the world and you have all these plans implemented if you don't have a way for people to know who you are or to be seen or to appear on Google search. Simply relying on SEO alone won't be enough. The sad reality is that you'll need to invest in marketing, and it's important to address this in your videos.
In fact, it's crucial to be prepared to spend about $500-$1000 a month for the first three months to truly gain significant traction. This is valuable information that I wish I had known when I first started, and I believe including it in your videos would greatly benefit aspiring photographers like yourself.
I didn't reference 'marketing' (which I assume is your way of describing pay-per-click advertising) because it would be an extremely misleading generalization.
The effectiveness of paid marketing is niche-specific. In my experience, organic marketing has been much more effective than paying Google or Facebook to promote my work. Word of mouth has done a lot more to advance my sports and real estate portfolio than advertising ever has.
If you're shooting 'people-oriented' work like weddings or headshots, then it's a different story. But to insinuate that I'm an 'aspiring photographer' because I didn't want to mislead some viewers into wasting hundreds of dollars puts you in the wrong, not me.
@@kevinraposo Certainly! Apologies for the confusion earlier. You make valid points about the limitations of organic marketing and the intricacies of algorithms on social media platforms and search engines like Google. Achieving consistent success through word of mouth alone is undoubtedly a stroke of luck, and it’s important not to generalize such experiences.
For many photographers, especially those operating in competitive markets, a comprehensive marketing strategy that includes paid advertising becomes crucial for establishing a sustainable income. Understanding SEO, algorithm workings, and utilizing proper strategies are indeed essential for leveraging platforms effectively.
While your personal achievements are commendable, it’s important to acknowledge that relying solely on word of mouth or organic methods may not yield the same results for everyone. Each photographer’s journey is unique, and various factors such as market size, competition, and target audience come into play.
Balancing both organic and paid marketing approaches can offer a more comprehensive approach to reach a wider audience and attract potential clients who may not have otherwise discovered your work. It’s about finding the right mix that suits your specific circumstances, leveraging the benefits of both approaches.
So, while your experience is valuable and should be celebrated, it’s essential to recognize the broader landscape and the potential benefits that paid advertising can bring to a photographer’s career, depending on their market and goals.
Also, let’s be clear I wasn’t insinuating anything from my interpretation of your video. It seemed like you were talking in black-and-white terms, which I hope you know that would be incorrect.
The days of simply just getting clients organically are over and if you got your business primarily because of that, you are extremely fortunate my friend, you’ve been blessed by the gods …🤙🏼👍🏼
Please make a video focused on the details of step 2. I know nothing about contracts, accounting, CMS, etc.
Ironically I just released a similar type of video, but it doesn’t cover much of this. I talk about it more inside the course
Have you got anything on how to choose a camera?
Thank you, this is very helpful
glad it was helpful!
Thank you for information
glad it was helpful!
Great advise, thank you.
Glad it was helpful!
Thank You for this video!!!
glad it was helpful!
I LOVE THIS!! thank u so much
glad it was helpful!
Great video. Thank you
Appreciate it, glad it was helpful!
1:14, as you said initially, find your niche. But in case one has an interest in portraits, street photography, landscape, like travelling and taking photos and at home like to learn nuances and do photography of still life and products. Then, what should one do? What you will suggest!!
Great tips. Thanks!
glad it was helpful!
This is GOLD man! Blessings! 🙏🏼
Glad it was helpful!
Thanks for the video. Short and on target 🎯 subscribed!!
Glad it was helpful!
Thank you for this video
glad it was helpful
This is such great content, thanks Kevin! Really appreciated
Glad it was helpful!
Thank you so much for this video.
hope it was helpful!
This video is crazy good
I appreciate it!
i appreciate that you have advice for the creative and the business side thanks
Glad it was helpful!
Great video, excellent advice. Thank you
Glad it was helpful!
Very good 👍 best I’ve seen on this topic thanks
Thank you so much for providing content that holds up to the test of time. I don't know how many accounts I've followed tat jump on the hypetrain of a style or topic of video that is obsolete 6 months later. This is definitely playing the youtube "long game" and I applaud you for it. Gained subscriber about 2 years after this video was posted. That says something. Thank you again!
means a lot. I appreciate it!
I love how this video is packed with useful information, from beginning to end!
Glad it was helpful!
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️thanks for amazing information
glad it was helpful!
Great advice
glad it was helpful!
Amazing video 👏🏼
glad it was helpful
Damn, you killed it in this video tbh. Great job.
Appreciate it!
👍 diversify and outsource
Absolutely!
You got a like and sub from me! thanks for the motivating video! I was trying to find videos on how to get started with Photography Workshops but this was really helpful as well :) I know I am capable of turning my passion into something more but I often feel as if I am a passenger in my own life, simply observing, not taking action or putting in the effort to get to the next step. I think it has a lot to do with not having enough pressure/deadlines. I am getting happily desperate now though.
Thanks again, Kevin
Bobby
no worries Bobby, glad it was helpful
Best of advice I heard all day was “look at the lens before looking at the camera.”
glad it was helpful!
Thanks! Love the structure of your video!!
Glad it was helpful!
Hi there, just to say that Sony make a very nice 200mm to 400mm lens, thanks.
They have a 200-600 and a 100-400, both with variable apertures - they currently do not have a 200-400 or any other super-telephoto zoom with a fixed aperture
Awesome video Kevin. Today only I saw this video...Subscribed
glad you enjoyed it!
Love this video and especially the inspo quote at the end. Thank you!
No prob, glad you enjoyed it!
Kevin thank you very much, this is the video I was looking for, now I know where I have to consent ,a big hug from Lima Peru
Great video! Super helpful!
glad it was helpful!
This video was amazing! 🔥👍🏾 I needed this
Badboi vid 👍
thank you
Thank you! Your video was super helpful
You good at what u do on UA-cam boss
I appreciate it
I came into this video thinking I will be learning about just cameras and lenses, but you over delivered! Great value! Thanks so much Kevin for the video! I definitely will be revisiting this video soon!
+1 Sub!
Appreciate the kind words, glad it was helpful!
Not gunna lie. I subbed because I am a fan of flashing the major talking points in the beginning, so thanks, you hooked me with that 🤘 then, you also mentioned my goal to shoot for national geographic lmao. I clicked subscribe immediately
glad I managed to hit home on two things you were looking for in a video haha
Great video, Kevin, thanks. Subscribed! :)
glad it was helpful!
under rated
Great vid man. got to the point didnt bother me with nonsense. Thanks for the gems 🙏
thanks, appreciate the kind words!