Are you interested in making photography more than just a hobby? Being a professional photographer can be an extremely rewarding full time career. It is also uniquely suitable as a part time, home based business, or lucrative sideline to your current employment. Whatever your model is, you will need to know a little about the business of photography to be successful.

Instructor Chris Stambaugh has earned his main source of income from professional photography for the past 30 years. He has steered his small business through the highs and lows of the Alberta economy by applying sound business practices alongside his creative photographic techniques.

This class is a must for any photographer who is just starting their own business or for someone who’s existing studio could use a boost.

In this course, participants will begin by setting short and long-term goals and defining exactly what success will look like under each person’s individual circumstances. We will work as a team to find your niche and identify exactly who your potential clients are. We will examine statistical data for photo studios earnings and expenses; using this information to create financial benchmarks for your business. Particular emphasis will be placed on establishing good business practices, adapted to the special needs of a photography studio. Students will engage in exercises that will help develop price lists and professional rates that make sense. Finally, you will explore the creation of an individual marketing strategy.

It is not enough to simply be good at photography. In order to have a successful business, one must have a good foundation that will support their creative talents and provide for their financial needs. This class will help you to build that foundation.