Cool vlog ;) Can you talk about the start? What do you recommend: services, products or productized services. How to get costumers in the beginning? What are the best costumers to chase and how to chase them? Greg has a cool video in ITB Berlin and you’re in it. That’s a cool insight into getting work but I guess we already need to have a solid profile at that stage. ua-cam.com/video/0ZMv1_ozsME/v-deo.html Jodie’s vlog is really cool because she documented the stepping into the nomad lifestyle. This video is a good insight ua-cam.com/video/bXNl3PzSxnI/v-deo.html
Good points. Something to def consider. I’m a sole prop right now. I have only sold a few prints here and there and done a few photo shoots for people. Even though it’s low key for me and not really a full on business, I never considered that someone might sue me because they got injured on a shoot or didn’t like the pictures and it ruined their day. I guess you could use a contract to get around that. I’ll look into this a bit more. I’m not making enough money from it to have even gone down the thought road of becoming incorporated. Thanks!
Bro my far u are the best youtuber/photographer. You're the only person I EVER watched that really tells you what really goes on and how to do it. I feel like others beat around the bush and are living a lie. They leave out so much when explaining. I can tell your really doing this and about what you say. I greatly appreciate you and hopefully one day we can network and collab
Great post. Love the inside business videos. 1st....glad to see the neck and back seem to be doing better. 2nd....why Estonia rather than say Canada or somewhere else in Europe? 3rd.....even though your income is different than most travel photographers, the “income octopus” was helpful in showing the different streams and fluctuations of income.....even to us that want to be professionals, but not necessarily travel photographers. 4th....a podcast would be great and would really like it if some of them were you talking to other professionals, like Thomas Heaton, about how they made the move from hobby to business and how they run their businesses. 5th....do you do a business section in your photography workshops? If not, would you consider doing a seminar style, afternoon session, of one separate of your workshops? 6th....have you ever thought of producing an ebook on your business model? 7th....and last......how about a video of your origin story? How you went from university to becoming a full time photographer. I am guessing you may have covered that in one of your early videos in the beginning, but many of us weren’t on the BVS train at the time. Did you do photography while at university? How did the idea come about to do this, what made you think this was even something you could do? What were the first couple trips and how did you make them work? I know this sounds like a long, long video......maybe a two parter.....and maybe to make it easier, have Greg Snell interview you on this subject. (Greg has a couple videos of his own about how he got started) Inquiring minds want to know. Be safe and thanks for all your work.
Thank you so much for sharing! Im in a spot now where I'm not sure how to register my photography business and more importantly WHEN I should register. Thanks for the insight!
Thank you for this video. Rather refreshing to actually hear a youtube photographer talk somewhat about the tax implications of being a photographer, as most of the time when you see "ways to make money as a photographer" videos, they talk about all the different ways your photos can generate income, but neglect any mention of doing tax related things such as registering as self-employed or, in this case, starting a photography business. I would love to jump from being a hobbyist to making some money from my photography, but the fact that I would have to register as self employed in the UK, even to earn a pittance on stock sites, really puts me off. Not a paperwork kinda guy lol. But this video was extremely interesting and informative and gives a helpful glimpse into the admin side of being a photographer.
Hopefully by the time that I start getting out there, I will be starting a new chapter in my business. Being an entrepreneur has always been my dream, though I've been lost and confused by conflicts that I've encountered. From wanting to be a baker to being a photographer, it's a major step that will have its own challenges. Yet, even though the struggle may be strong, I am still excited to get myself out.
I think income octopus may still be relevant for people that want to do you job (and not just traditional photographer in some city somewhere). Especially if they already have a relatively successful career and consider jumping ship they need to understand what may be their earning potential after 9 years of hard work.Seasonal or monthly variation of income and so on.
First off AWESOME video. so informational. I'm excited to watch more. Here's what I'd like to get from your channel. I'd like to see a video on the paperwork that's involved in making your business a corporation, how to write up an invoice and how they actually work (for expensing things to your business). How does that affect your business when you write up all those invoices? Also, I'd like to know about how to write up a proper business plan for your photography business.
I often listen to your videos while cooking, so I only get to glance every now and then. Then i go back and watch them properly later for all the visual goodness! A podcast would be awesome
Very interesting, thank you. One thing though that should be clarified is a sole proprietorship is still a business and thus can be used as a form of claiming expenses similarly. You're right that if you start to make significant amounts of money - it makes more sense to move to an llc and limit liability. That said - talking and researching with professionals the benefits are fairly low if you're making less than 80k, that was kind of the cut off I've seen advised but it would even say 40k I'd be more likely to love to an llc just because of potential conflicts. I'm just starting out and staying as a sole prop for now since it is very much a side gig.
I loved this video and learned a lot... thanks for sharing those insights. I’m part time photographer and had been wondering if incorporating was a good idea or not... have zero knowledge in business so this was definitely a good introduction to how it works! Podcast would be awesome. I don’t know of any Canadian photography podcasts.... you gotta do it, man!
Another reason to incorporate: insurance. It can be complicated and expensive to add thousands of dollars of photo gear to your homeowner's or renter's insurance. It's a given to include it in your business insurance. I'm a hobbyist currently wrestling with this issue. If a camera gets stolen, I'm out of luck. I would think, Brendan, if you lost or broke your camera while working, you could get at least partial replacement value back from your insurance. Correct?
A good overview, Brendan. I think that you should recommend that folks who want to establish a business should get a good accountant and lawyer. Many of the rules are state specific, so they should be aware of those things going in. Sole Proprietors can have employees......and owners should be aware of how people they hire should be classified: employee or independent contractor. That's really important........it's based on IRS strict guidelines. Sometimes, even a small corporation with just a single shareholder can be held liable in lawsuits if they are so closely intertwined that they act as one. It's called piercing the corporate veil (shield). This is especially important when business funds are used personally and vice versa. Last, but very important. The IRS expects to see profits at some point in the life of a new business. Usually they look at 5 years results to determine if the entity is operated for profit or if it is just a hobby. You are providing a good service, but just emphasize that they need to be guided by professionals until they understand the rules.
I think I did that in the video when I mentioned that at the start. 😉😁 Also, remember rules differ in every country too. Lots of countries sole proprietors can't have employees.
Very useful information. Thank you, Brendan. I recently quit my job of 20 years and I've been moving towards starting a photography business, and your video really helped. Cheers!
Hey Brendan, rarely comment, but allways enjoing your videos. As you asked about creating a podcast, every time I notice you just sit down and talk for the whole video I allready tap out and just listen to the Audio anyways. I only realy watch the video, if you are out and shooting or traveling. So you are from time to time a podcast to me allready, so yes, sure, go along if you think you will have fun creating one :)
Hi Brendan! I'd like to hear about how to charge for photography and video services. How to make a budget, how to pitch the clients, how to set the right prices....
Great video Brendan. Can you say a little more about why you are registered in Estonia? I know they make it extremely easy to register a business there but are there any other benefits?
It's amazing the way you share information. That's one of the reasons why I follow you and watch every vlog. Of course, because you're a great photographer. But also because you help a lot of people with your experience. Cheers!
Such a well executed video. Very well explained and easy to follow. I'm currently planning to make the transition to professional photography. Subscribed
Brendan, great advice thank you...on the Credit and Mortgage issues min 13:15. The business can buy the Home or open the credit card. Just have an office at home.
Yup, great point. Although a bit complicated. The business would have to buy the house and then rent the bedrooms to you. Esentially claim it's a rental property / office.
Thank you for this. I work full time and do photography on the side and have been struggling on what to do. I love my full time job so I wasn't sure if it was worth it to become more than a sole proprietorship but with the weddings I do, I feel like I should now. Thanks for being so straight forward!
this is why you take business classes as a business owner and in film school, there's actually online course that teaches you specifically laws you need to know for film business
Awesome video! Thank you so much for explaining this! I’m now at the start of my photography journey as a business and this has really explained a lot to me!
Man such a good video. I love podcasts. Very meaty lots of good info in here. Curious about the Estonian part can you explain that more. Is it just because Estonia is big in the tech world and cheap for labour or is it a loophole they have in their law ?
YESSS! I would love a podcast from you, I listen to a lot of podcasts because I can multitask very easily like that. And I know a lot of people that listen to podcasts.
I remember watching this video before I incorporated and it was a huuuuge factor in why I did. Thank you! But now that I have and am doing my taxes for the first time, I'm curious why you decided to lease your personal equipment to your corporation, rather than just sell your equipment to your corporation.
As a single owner LLC you can file as a pass through S Corp. You still take that salary and are also able to take the left over as a distribution at a much lower rate. It's worth checking out! Edit: in the US and if your earnings are a good but over the reasonable salary.
Good info for sure! Nice insights into one model of operating a business. There others to be sure, but this is what works for you. The key to the income octopus for me is the potential streams to be had, not the $$ amounts. You could do the podcast on YT and make the audio available along the same lines as Sara Dietschy (Rhymes with Peachy). Then we'd have the option to listen in the car.Rock on!
Loving these business videos, especially about how you're so open about how you handle the business side of your photography. Question: As a travel photographer, how do you handle work visas? Do you need to get a work visa for countries that you travel? Does taking photos, editing come under needing a work visa or should a general tourist visa be enough?
I'm not as well travelled as Brandon, having been to only about a third of the countries he has in total. In my experience, though, I'd say no. I happen to own a business in which I use my photos. For all appearances, though, I'm a tourist. My business isn't predicated on me selling photos. Either way, though, I'm a guy taking photos and using a laptop. Hardly a rare occurrence. I've never been told it's not okay to take a photo or asked for identification for that reason. If you were running an event, taking photos or footage in a sensitive area or clearly part of a big group filming for commercial reasons for a large company, you might need a permit or special permission. However, I think that for anyone who is on their own and following the rules/laws of a country and generally behaving politely, I don't think the difference between being a tourist and an employee of a business greatly matters.
There are a couple of ways to do it. If you are a travel photographer but all the people that buy your travel photos are from your home country the no you definitely do not need a work visa because from a business perspective all the business you are conducting is still only in you home country. If you sell you work or services to the people in the country that you are travelling to that's when it can get a bit messy. Either they are buying services and products from a foreign country from their perspective and then that might mean dealing with import taxes depending on how much the money amount involved in the transaction is or I guess you could get a work visa (I think there is a seperate type of visa depending on the country for freelancers or self employed conducting business). If you are like the first case where all of your sales for your products or services are made in your home country and the only thing you are doing when travelling is taking and editing phots then no you should not need anything more than a general travel visa. In the second case talk to someone who has expertise in selling products or services in other countries.
In USA Incorporation in small business is really only beneficial for the liability issues. I have been in business for over 30 years. It cost me more to be incorporated as a sub chapter S. As sole proprietor I have had up to 10 employees and can deduct all business expenses before I have to pay taxes. But thanks for sharing. There are many issues as you said to consider.
Wow so much info! Very awesome man! Do you ever visit Estonia/Tallin? I'm in Helsinki and maybe some day we could even meet who knows. My question: What would you do if you have a full-time job that pays well and you have evenings and weekend free, but now you started going to photography school and you'll get an actual profession from it. You have the lenses and 5dmk4 and some clients who know you. You like both of these works. I'm guessing just do freelance photo work on free time and keep the full-time work?
Man, thank you so much for doing this video... however, you lost me on the renting your gear etc... it would be awesome to have a more in depth video on that. Thabks again!
Fantastic vlog mate... great advice. If and when I start my biz I will definitely look into this. I wonder how as a hobbyist / semi professional it would effect the tax streams. In the UK i know it's technically a second job so that means I would pay 40%.... annoying... But it would be a start until the income streams build and lets face it, its never really work when its your passion!! Cheers Jase
Great video Brendan. When you invoice your own business for renting gear, do you pick a number that is realistic to the price you would rent it to someone else for? Or could you just pick $1 / month or whatever number you like without it making much difference?
Interesting and informative thanks for sharing some of the details. For future business sessions it would be good to know more about how you setup a business in Estonia does that cause you problems with Canadian tax or government, more about various ways for photographers to monitise their work plus as you suggested this is how i do a social campaign or a real estate or whatever making sure to give the why for each point not just this is a list of what I do. Also how do you get clients/work perhaps you could elaborate how you land a social media deal, or a brand deal/partnership or whatever. thanks for sharing and being open with this stuff very refreshing. If you did a podcast I would listen, especially on a subject like this that's not really visual, I listen to podcasts as I walk or commute were watching a video isnt practicle.
Good stuff, this is what I'm starting up and I'm so focused on building the social media sites. That I haven't paid much attention to "business " stuff. As just wanting to get better at photography and build brand, to get business. If that makes sense.
Great Video! I still work a 9-5 but I also just started my photography business! How many hours daily did you start off working for your photography business?
Would love to hear a podcast, somehow lately I gravitate more towards podcasts in general as I don't always have time to watch vidos, but I drive my car a lot and podcasts are great there. And thanks for making this video, recently I also faced a choice of business form and also considered Estonian e-residency. Gravitaded towards being a sole proprietor and paying taxes to my home country. Did you managed to go through registration process completely by yourself or did you paid some middle company who helped?
Taxes are bracketed. I think you may be confusing average tax, effective tax, and marginal tax. Your current tax bracket is marginal tax (or tax rate for each additional dollar earned). If you are in a 24% tax bracket, your entire income is not taxed at 24%. Hypothetical tax brackets: 0 - 10,000 : 0% tax 10,001 - 20,000 : 12% tax 20,001 - 50,000 : 20% tax Salary of $25,000 : 10,000 * 0% + 10,000 * 12% + 5,000 * 20% = 0 + 1,200 + 1,000 = $2,200 in taxes
Interesting topic. Also interesting how you started with the US first, but it sounds like you were talking specifically about the federal taxes. In addition to the federal income tax, most areas have state income tax to pay in addition to the federal, and in some places (like New York City), have to file city income tax. I'm fortunate to live in a state where I don't have to pay a personal state income tax, but would have to pay a business state income tax. I am glad you made the disclaimer, and I would echo the message to consult with an attorney and/or financial planner that are more familiar with local laws.
yep well done mate. Similar in Australia mostly. Although we have public liability insurance and professional indemnity insurance so protected against law suits as a sole trader. Also with GST here our BAS (business activity statements) I don't pay any take as you offset your tax credits against gear you need to buy etc. Well done for doing this. Where on this planet can you buy a $250l,000 house lol.......I live in Australia with the most expensive houses in the world :)
Not to mention if you INC you have a lot more tax write offs than a sole Proprietor, The cut off to INC is apx 50K+ anything lower does not typically make since.
just a heads up that's not how tax brackets work, you're not taxed 24% at the full 100K amount if you're filing as a single taxpayer ... it's only 24% for income between 85-100K, the rates are lower for the income below 85K
Thanks for the information. I currently need to stay as a sole proprietor is there any video available explaining this? Since I’m not ready to transition to beginners a business at this time.
I honestly treated this like a podcast. Love your face, but just wanted listen to this topic we’ve spoken about before. Looking for the next intern/assistant possibly.... 😉
*im not sure if i catch what you mean by having a business instead of sole proprietary.... Do you mean a corporation, S corp, LLC , LP, LLP? beside having sole proprietorship.*
Any updates on the topics you have referred at the end of the video? I have a question about having your company. So some of the money that your company does pays you. The rest stays on your business. The question is: What happens to your business money if you want to close it? Can you increase your income any time? Can you give you bonus if you need more money? Thanks
starting your own business will depend on how much you are or will earn. but you could get grants (money you dont pay back) to start a business if you can do a business plan and prove its viable. All assets eg all camera equipment and any other item used for the business can be written off over time as the value of it drops. any losses are written off. so is any advertising of you and the business, you can invest in items for the business and so reduce the tax liability. you only pay personal tax on money you take out of the business as wages.
Thanks Brendan. I am at a crossroads to finally dive into a business. I will be doing additional research, but just a quick question.... As a sole proprietor, can you expense needed camera gear? Like a second camera body?
we LOOK at you blabbing, we can afford to only hear you... joke aside great video, great insight and it would be cool to know more about the photography business side in whatever form it comer, cheers BvS!
Did you see the last time we chatted business? We talked about stock photography: ua-cam.com/video/gxLVIHTSMcM/v-deo.html
Cool vlog ;)
Can you talk about the start?
What do you recommend: services, products or productized services.
How to get costumers in the beginning? What are the best costumers to chase and how to chase them?
Greg has a cool video in ITB Berlin and you’re in it. That’s a cool insight into getting work but I guess we already need to have a solid profile at that stage. ua-cam.com/video/0ZMv1_ozsME/v-deo.html
Jodie’s vlog is really cool because she documented the stepping into the nomad lifestyle. This video is a good insight ua-cam.com/video/bXNl3PzSxnI/v-deo.html
Bro. You just blew my everlasting mind when you broke down what you’re able to write off as an expense. God bless you.
Great insights dude!! As a sole proprietor this video is super relevant and interesting. Cheers for sharing these thoughts bru!
Good points. Something to def consider. I’m a sole prop right now. I have only sold a few prints here and there and done a few photo shoots for people. Even though it’s low key for me and not really a full on business, I never considered that someone might sue me because they got injured on a shoot or didn’t like the pictures and it ruined their day. I guess you could use a contract to get around that. I’ll look into this a bit more. I’m not making enough money from it to have even gone down the thought road of becoming incorporated. Thanks!
I honestly want to send you a Starbucks gift card as a thank you for making this video
Spotify podcast would be sick! Thanks so much for your simple explanations on the hard stuff of breaking into freelance photography.
Ugh finally. Thank you for this insight. I’ve been unsure about what to do. This really helsp
Glad this was helpful!
Bro my far u are the best youtuber/photographer. You're the only person I EVER watched that really tells you what really goes on and how to do it. I feel like others beat around the bush and are living a lie. They leave out so much when explaining. I can tell your really doing this and about what you say. I greatly appreciate you and hopefully one day we can network and collab
Thanks Kenneth, appreciate your support and glad it's helpful.
Great post. Love the inside business videos.
1st....glad to see the neck and back seem to be doing better.
2nd....why Estonia rather than say Canada or somewhere else in Europe?
3rd.....even though your income is different than most travel photographers, the “income octopus” was helpful in showing the different streams and fluctuations of income.....even to us that want to be professionals, but not necessarily travel photographers.
4th....a podcast would be great and would really like it if some of them were you talking to other professionals, like Thomas Heaton, about how they made the move from hobby to business and how they run their businesses.
5th....do you do a business section in your photography workshops? If not, would you consider doing a seminar style, afternoon session, of one separate of your workshops?
6th....have you ever thought of producing an ebook on your business model?
7th....and last......how about a video of your origin story?
How you went from university to becoming a full time photographer. I am guessing you may have covered that in one of your early videos in the beginning, but many of us weren’t on the BVS train at the time. Did you do photography while at university? How did the idea come about to do this, what made you think this was even something you could do? What were the first couple trips and how did you make them work?
I know this sounds like a long, long video......maybe a two parter.....and maybe to make it easier, have Greg Snell interview you on this subject. (Greg has a couple videos of his own about how he got started) Inquiring minds want to know.
Be safe and thanks for all your work.
Thank you so much for sharing! Im in a spot now where I'm not sure how to register my photography business and more importantly WHEN I should register. Thanks for the insight!
My pleasure Emily. Glad this helped.
Thank you for this video. Rather refreshing to actually hear a youtube photographer talk somewhat about the tax implications of being a photographer, as most of the time when you see "ways to make money as a photographer" videos, they talk about all the different ways your photos can generate income, but neglect any mention of doing tax related things such as registering as self-employed or, in this case, starting a photography business. I would love to jump from being a hobbyist to making some money from my photography, but the fact that I would have to register as self employed in the UK, even to earn a pittance on stock sites, really puts me off. Not a paperwork kinda guy lol. But this video was extremely interesting and informative and gives a helpful glimpse into the admin side of being a photographer.
Fantastic explanation man. Subscribed and notification bell clicked. Can't wait to see more.
Hopefully by the time that I start getting out there, I will be starting a new chapter in my business. Being an entrepreneur has always been my dream, though I've been lost and confused by conflicts that I've encountered. From wanting to be a baker to being a photographer, it's a major step that will have its own challenges. Yet, even though the struggle may be strong, I am still excited to get myself out.
I think income octopus may still be relevant for people that want to do you job (and not just traditional photographer in some city somewhere). Especially if they already have a relatively successful career and consider jumping ship they need to understand what may be their earning potential after 9 years of hard work.Seasonal or monthly variation of income and so on.
Excellent business tips for starting a photography business. Thanks, Subscribed now.
First off AWESOME video. so informational. I'm excited to watch more. Here's what I'd like to get from your channel.
I'd like to see a video on the paperwork that's involved in making your business a corporation, how to write up an invoice and how they actually work (for expensing things to your business). How does that affect your business when you write up all those invoices?
Also, I'd like to know about how to write up a proper business plan for your photography business.
Thank you very very much. Nobody on this site lays out this information so clearly as you. Thank You!
I often listen to your videos while cooking, so I only get to glance every now and then. Then i go back and watch them properly later for all the visual goodness! A podcast would be awesome
Very interesting, thank you. One thing though that should be clarified is a sole proprietorship is still a business and thus can be used as a form of claiming expenses similarly. You're right that if you start to make significant amounts of money - it makes more sense to move to an llc and limit liability. That said - talking and researching with professionals the benefits are fairly low if you're making less than 80k, that was kind of the cut off I've seen advised but it would even say 40k I'd be more likely to love to an llc just because of potential conflicts. I'm just starting out and staying as a sole prop for now since it is very much a side gig.
This was the one video I needed in life thanks bro 💯
I loved this video and learned a lot... thanks for sharing those insights. I’m part time photographer and had been wondering if incorporating was a good idea or not... have zero knowledge in business so this was definitely a good introduction to how it works!
Podcast would be awesome. I don’t know of any Canadian photography podcasts.... you gotta do it, man!
Hey Brendan, i'm going to start doing freelance photography this month and I really appreciate the help!
Glad this helped
what an insightful video! great great stuff as usual!
this was super helpful :D
thanks for sharing this with us, really enjoyed watching this
Another reason to incorporate: insurance. It can be complicated and expensive to add thousands of dollars of photo gear to your homeowner's or renter's insurance. It's a given to include it in your business insurance. I'm a hobbyist currently wrestling with this issue. If a camera gets stolen, I'm out of luck. I would think, Brendan, if you lost or broke your camera while working, you could get at least partial replacement value back from your insurance. Correct?
A good overview, Brendan. I think that you should recommend that folks who want to establish a business should get a good accountant and lawyer. Many of the rules are state specific, so they should be aware of those things going in. Sole Proprietors can have employees......and owners should be aware of how people they hire should be classified: employee or independent contractor. That's really important........it's based on IRS strict guidelines. Sometimes, even a small corporation with just a single shareholder can be held liable in lawsuits if they are so closely intertwined that they act as one. It's called piercing the corporate veil (shield). This is especially important when business funds are used personally and vice versa.
Last, but very important. The IRS expects to see profits at some point in the life of a new business. Usually they look at 5 years results to determine if the entity is operated for profit or if it is just a hobby.
You are providing a good service, but just emphasize that they need to be guided by professionals until they understand the rules.
I think I did that in the video when I mentioned that at the start. 😉😁
Also, remember rules differ in every country too. Lots of countries sole proprietors can't have employees.
Very useful information. Thank you, Brendan. I recently quit my job of 20 years and I've been moving towards starting a photography business, and your video really helped. Cheers!
Hey Brendan, rarely comment, but allways enjoing your videos.
As you asked about creating a podcast, every time I notice you just sit down and talk for the whole video I allready tap out and just listen to the Audio anyways. I only realy watch the video, if you are out and shooting or traveling.
So you are from time to time a podcast to me allready, so yes, sure, go along if you think you will have fun creating one :)
Hi Brendan! I'd like to hear about how to charge for photography and video services. How to make a budget, how to pitch the clients, how to set the right prices....
I really like these type of vlogs and it's a yes from for a podcast.
Great video Brendan. Can you say a little more about why you are registered in Estonia? I know they make it extremely easy to register a business there but are there any other benefits?
It's amazing the way you share information. That's one of the reasons why I follow you and watch every vlog. Of course, because you're a great photographer. But also because you help a lot of people with your experience. Cheers!
Finally information that I needed!! Thank you 😊
Such a well executed video. Very well explained and easy to follow. I'm currently planning to make the transition to professional photography. Subscribed
Blessed bro 😎 Give thanks 💯 for the Heads up 🆙 Great 👍 video Good job 👏 it Helped me a lot
Brendan, great advice thank you...on the Credit and Mortgage issues min 13:15. The business can buy the Home or open the credit card. Just have an office at home.
Yup, great point. Although a bit complicated. The business would have to buy the house and then rent the bedrooms to you. Esentially claim it's a rental property / office.
Podcast about the business aspects of photography would be amazing!!!
Thank you for this. I work full time and do photography on the side and have been struggling on what to do. I love my full time job so I wasn't sure if it was worth it to become more than a sole proprietorship but with the weddings I do, I feel like I should now. Thanks for being so straight forward!
Loved this video and after reading up on the tax laws in Estonia, how it works and how it works for you I think it’s genius 🤘
Dude i just wanna take photos and get paid for that ;-;
Bro listen to him he's giving you incredibly helpful advice
I think he smocked something real strong!)))
this is why you take business classes as a business owner and in film school, there's actually online course that teaches you specifically laws you need to know for film business
You can just get your tax shit done.
😂😂😂 right
This is better information than the income octopus as we don’t need to know how much you and your busses makes , just how it might help us!! Thanks
Yessss! Thank you so much for this. I would LOVE a podcast!!
I like the idea of shooting for social media campaigns - especially how you get the gigs.
I appreciate what you're trying to do....but I F**KING HATE TAXES!!!!
don't appreciate, i think he should talk about how to start, and not about taxes
Am I the only one who finds taxes easy..? Oh wait, I’m in college for finance 😭
Talked about everything I had questions about. Thanks so much!
Awesome video! Thank you so much for explaining this! I’m now at the start of my photography journey as a business and this has really explained a lot to me!
Man such a good video. I love podcasts. Very meaty lots of good info in here. Curious about the Estonian part can you explain that more. Is it just because Estonia is big in the tech world and cheap for labour or is it a loophole they have in their law ?
Thank you Brendan van Son,
Your video just opened my eyes to a new direction!
Much Love!
Thanks so much for sharing these kinds of videos, I find them really helpful and inspiring so keep them coming.
YESSS! I would love a podcast from you, I listen to a lot of podcasts because I can multitask very easily like that. And I know a lot of people that listen to podcasts.
One thing that I would like to know, is how to insure your equipment? Mostly meaning your cameras lenses and compute.
Very informative video. Thanks BVS. I would also like to hear more about e-estonia and why and how that works?
love how well he explains everything
I remember watching this video before I incorporated and it was a huuuuge factor in why I did. Thank you! But now that I have and am doing my taxes for the first time, I'm curious why you decided to lease your personal equipment to your corporation, rather than just sell your equipment to your corporation.
As a single owner LLC you can file as a pass through S Corp. You still take that salary and are also able to take the left over as a distribution at a much lower rate. It's worth checking out!
Edit: in the US and if your earnings are a good but over the reasonable salary.
Good info for sure! Nice insights into one model of operating a business. There others to be sure, but this is what works for you. The key to the income octopus for me is the potential streams to be had, not the $$ amounts. You could do the podcast on YT and make the audio available along the same lines as Sara Dietschy (Rhymes with Peachy). Then we'd have the option to listen in the car.Rock on!
Thanks for your continued honesty in what you share!!! Yes, eEstonia information would be very interesting.
Loving these business videos, especially about how you're so open about how you handle the business side of your photography. Question: As a travel photographer, how do you handle work visas? Do you need to get a work visa for countries that you travel? Does taking photos, editing come under needing a work visa or should a general tourist visa be enough?
I'm not as well travelled as Brandon, having been to only about a third of the countries he has in total. In my experience, though, I'd say no. I happen to own a business in which I use my photos. For all appearances, though, I'm a tourist. My business isn't predicated on me selling photos. Either way, though, I'm a guy taking photos and using a laptop. Hardly a rare occurrence. I've never been told it's not okay to take a photo or asked for identification for that reason. If you were running an event, taking photos or footage in a sensitive area or clearly part of a big group filming for commercial reasons for a large company, you might need a permit or special permission. However, I think that for anyone who is on their own and following the rules/laws of a country and generally behaving politely, I don't think the difference between being a tourist and an employee of a business greatly matters.
There are a couple of ways to do it. If you are a travel photographer but all the people that buy your travel photos are from your home country the no you definitely do not need a work visa because from a business perspective all the business you are conducting is still only in you home country. If you sell you work or services to the people in the country that you are travelling to that's when it can get a bit messy. Either they are buying services and products from a foreign country from their perspective and then that might mean dealing with import taxes depending on how much the money amount involved in the transaction is or I guess you could get a work visa (I think there is a seperate type of visa depending on the country for freelancers or self employed conducting business). If you are like the first case where all of your sales for your products or services are made in your home country and the only thing you are doing when travelling is taking and editing phots then no you should not need anything more than a general travel visa. In the second case talk to someone who has expertise in selling products or services in other countries.
Can you make a vlog about e-Estonia?
In USA Incorporation in small business is really only beneficial for the liability issues. I have been in business for over 30 years. It cost me more to be incorporated as a sub chapter S. As sole proprietor I have had up to 10 employees and can deduct all business expenses before I have to pay taxes. But thanks for sharing. There are many issues as you said to consider.
Wow so much info! Very awesome man! Do you ever visit Estonia/Tallin? I'm in Helsinki and maybe some day we could even meet who knows. My question: What would you do if you have a full-time job that pays well and you have evenings and weekend free, but now you started going to photography school and you'll get an actual profession from it. You have the lenses and 5dmk4 and some clients who know you. You like both of these works. I'm guessing just do freelance photo work on free time and keep the full-time work?
Man, thank you so much for doing this video... however, you lost me on the renting your gear etc... it would be awesome to have a more in depth video on that. Thabks again!
Basically, if you're have a business but you personally own the camera gear, you can (or have to) rent your personal camera gear to your business.
Fantastic vlog mate... great advice. If and when I start my biz I will definitely look into this. I wonder how as a hobbyist / semi professional it would effect the tax streams. In the UK i know it's technically a second job so that means I would pay 40%.... annoying... But it would be a start until the income streams build and lets face it, its never really work when its your passion!!
Cheers Jase
Great content! Thanks for sharing !!! Vlog would be cool! 👍👍
Finally a good video on the business side.
Great video Brendan. When you invoice your own business for renting gear, do you pick a number that is realistic to the price you would rent it to someone else for? Or could you just pick $1 / month or whatever number you like without it making much difference?
I picked a realistic number. I went onto borrorwlenses.com figured out what they charge per month and charged half of that. :D
Why exactly do you charge your business rent for that equipment? So that you can claim it as an expense for items your personally own?
I need to learn more about the bisness of photography as at some point I must make the switch to only doing photography
Interesting and informative thanks for sharing some of the details. For future business sessions it would be good to know more about how you setup a business in Estonia does that cause you problems with Canadian tax or government, more about various ways for photographers to monitise their work plus as you suggested this is how i do a social campaign or a real estate or whatever making sure to give the why for each point not just this is a list of what I do.
Also how do you get clients/work perhaps you could elaborate how you land a social media deal, or a brand deal/partnership or whatever.
thanks for sharing and being open with this stuff very refreshing.
If you did a podcast I would listen, especially on a subject like this that's not really visual, I listen to podcasts as I walk or commute were watching a video isnt practicle.
Good stuff, this is what I'm starting up and I'm so focused on building the social media sites. That I haven't paid much attention to "business " stuff. As just wanting to get better at photography and build brand, to get business. If that makes sense.
Great Video! I still work a 9-5 but I also just started my photography business! How many hours daily did you start off working for your photography business?
Would love to hear a podcast, somehow lately I gravitate more towards podcasts in general as I don't always have time to watch vidos, but I drive my car a lot and podcasts are great there.
And thanks for making this video, recently I also faced a choice of business form and also considered Estonian e-residency. Gravitaded towards being a sole proprietor and paying taxes to my home country.
Did you managed to go through registration process completely by yourself or did you paid some middle company who helped?
Taxes are bracketed. I think you may be confusing average tax, effective tax, and marginal tax. Your current tax bracket is marginal tax (or tax rate for each additional dollar earned). If you are in a 24% tax bracket, your entire income is not taxed at 24%.
Hypothetical tax brackets:
0 - 10,000 : 0% tax
10,001 - 20,000 : 12% tax
20,001 - 50,000 : 20% tax
Salary of $25,000 : 10,000 * 0% + 10,000 * 12% + 5,000 * 20% = 0 + 1,200 + 1,000 = $2,200 in taxes
Thanks for sharing your info!! This is super appreciated!
I really enjoyed this video great information and insight, gave me things to think about
Podcast would be awesome as I work nights and often listen to podcasts while at work so need more to get me through the night lol
Best video lve watched today. Now the question is how much should l be making to start an LLC cuz lm nowhere near 100k
Please do a podcast, I don't think there's enough information out there for photographers on business essentials. Especially podcast style.
I have one! Had to my website, there's a link to the podcast in the menu
Perfect! Thank you!
@@BrendanvanSon
Interesting topic. Also interesting how you started with the US first, but it sounds like you were talking specifically about the federal taxes. In addition to the federal income tax, most areas have state income tax to pay in addition to the federal, and in some places (like New York City), have to file city income tax. I'm fortunate to live in a state where I don't have to pay a personal state income tax, but would have to pay a business state income tax. I am glad you made the disclaimer, and I would echo the message to consult with an attorney and/or financial planner that are more familiar with local laws.
yep well done mate. Similar in Australia mostly. Although we have public liability insurance and professional indemnity insurance so protected against law suits as a sole trader. Also with GST here our BAS (business activity statements) I don't pay any take as you offset your tax credits against gear you need to buy etc. Well done for doing this. Where on this planet can you buy a $250l,000 house lol.......I live in Australia with the most expensive houses in the world :)
They're about to get a lot cheaper here in Australia mate :)
You can't even buy a shed on Brighton Beach in Melbourne for 250k! :-)
Not to mention if you INC you have a lot more tax write offs than a sole Proprietor, The cut off to INC is apx 50K+ anything lower does not typically make since.
Lots of useful info here Brendan , Thank you.
Thanks for this brotha.
Brendan. This is just fantastic. Thanks so much!
Podcast would be a weekly highlight!
just a heads up that's not how tax brackets work, you're not taxed 24% at the full 100K amount if you're filing as a single taxpayer ... it's only 24% for income between 85-100K, the rates are lower for the income below 85K
Thanks for the video. It really helped.
Would love for you to make a book or course on the business of photography.
Thanks for the information. I currently need to stay as a sole proprietor is there any video available explaining this? Since I’m not ready to transition to beginners a business at this time.
GOLD!
I honestly treated this like a podcast. Love your face, but just wanted listen to this topic we’ve spoken about before.
Looking for the next intern/assistant possibly.... 😉
*im not sure if i catch what you mean by having a business instead of sole proprietary.... Do you mean a corporation, S corp, LLC , LP, LLP? beside having sole proprietorship.*
Yes. That was what he meant. :-)
Cool info! Thanks for sharing
Any updates on the topics you have referred at the end of the video?
I have a question about having your company. So some of the money that your company does pays you. The rest stays on your business. The question is:
What happens to your business money if you want to close it?
Can you increase your income any time?
Can you give you bonus if you need more money?
Thanks
Yo thank you for this video. Essential info here !
starting your own business will depend on how much you are or will earn.
but you could get grants (money you dont pay back) to start a business if you can do a business plan and prove its viable.
All assets eg all camera equipment and any other item used for the business can be written off over time as the value of it drops.
any losses are written off. so is any advertising of you and the business, you can invest in items for the business and so reduce the tax liability. you only pay personal tax on money you take out of the business as wages.
Great video to start business.
A video podcast would be a good idea. But just audio podcast on iTunes etc I personally don't think there will be as much of a reach.
Thanks Brendan. I am at a crossroads to finally dive into a business. I will be doing additional research, but just a quick question....
As a sole proprietor, can you expense needed camera gear? Like a second camera body?
How do you do your pricing and how do you get your payments do you have a video on that or if not could you make one. Thanks
we LOOK at you blabbing, we can afford to only hear you... joke aside great video, great insight and it would be cool to know more about the photography business side in whatever form it comer, cheers BvS!
Good video. Thanks. Can you talk more about incorporating: eEstonia? Thanks