Building a Career in Special Event Photography: A Beginner’s Guide

Starting a career in special event photography can be exciting but also challenging. It's important to understand that success in this field isn't just about acquiring the right equipment. It's a multifaceted endeavor that involves honing both your technical skills and business acumen. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to getting started and building a successful career in special event photography.

Starting with Basics

Before diving headfirst into event photography, it makes more sense to start with simpler types of photography. This allows you to build a solid foundation and gradually develop your skills. Here are a few areas to consider:

Portrait Photography: Start with high school seniors, family portraits, or even models. These types of work often come with lower stress and more repetition, helping you get comfortable with the basics. Headshots: Corporate, acting, and remote work clients all require high-quality headshots. Building a portfolio of headshots is valuable and widely sought after.

Learning the Business Side

While technical skills are crucial, understanding the business aspects of photography is equally important. Here are some key areas to focus on:

Understanding Contracts: Learn how to create effective contracts that protect your interests and set clear expectations for the client. Client Expectations: Develop shot lists that reflect the client's vision and ensure you're capturing the right shots. Insurance: Get the necessary insurance to cover unexpected situations and protect your business. Equipment Selection: Understand that expensive equipment doesn't necessarily translate to a better photographer. Focus on affordability and versatility.

Getting the Right Equipment

Starting without the right equipment can be daunting, especially if you have a budget of $12,000. However, you don't need to spend the whole amount on high-end gear to get started. Here are some recommendations for entry-level equipment:

Camera: For event photography, a versatile camera like the Sony A6400 is a solid choice. It offers a balance of performance and affordability. Lens: The 18–135mm kit lens provides versatility for various shooting scenarios. Flash: A Godox speedlight is a great starting point for on-location lighting.

For more specialized equipment, you can start adding lenses like a 50mm prime for portraits, and lights like studio light stands as you progress in your career.

Practical Experience

Gaining practical experience is crucial. Consider these options to get hands-on experience:

Affiliate with Wedding Photographers: Offer to assist or be a second shooter for weddings or events. This will help you learn the ropes and understand the workflow in the field. Non-Profit Photography: Offer to provide event photography services for local non-profits on a pro bono basis. This will build your portfolio and provide valuable experience without the pressure.

By taking these steps, you can build a solid foundation in special event photography. Remember, Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither will your photography career. With patience, practice, and a willingness to learn, you can succeed in this exciting field.

Additional Resources

If you're interested in more training, Peter Gorham, a headshot photography expert, offers great training on creating a duplicate method that can be applied to various types of photography.