Need some advice/guidance

[lakesha23]

Hi,

I'm working with some photographers who owns their own businesses who are coming together as one company. My job is to take care of the business side of things. I've already registered the company, received the tax id, i've started working on contracts and etc. Is there anyone that can tell me about any classes, conventions as far as business goes that can help me. NOTE_ i'm learning the photography at the same time. All of your advice would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
LaKesha

[andyz]

Check with your BBB and Chamber of Commerce for seminars on starting a business. Community colleges are often another entity to ask. And asking is free.

[kayumangi]

The PPA has business workshops checkout this link

SMS Workshops | Professional Photographers of America

[HotHolly]

I'd look for business classes specific to photography. Its such a different business that it is WAY more helpful to learn business practices specific to this field. Photography is one of the only industries that sells tangible and intangible goods. The more specific info you have, the better. The PPA is a treasure trove. WPPI has some good info too. Depending on what you're doing, you may also want to seek out a business consultant too. Same thing - make sure they have a photography background. It gets you more bang for your $.

[hdctx]

Join the PPA and attend the convention in New Orleans in January. Get a subscription to Kelby Training ($25 a month with no commitment), a subscription to Photovision, (look for a discount code), and consider spending $35 a month with Sarah Petty on Cafe Joy. They have an basic training course on the 8th through the 11th online for free. See thejoyofmarketing.com. I'm starting out too, and it's tough to figure out where you can get a decent return on your dollar. I think all the above are a good value, but that's only my personal opinion.

[LadyShutterBug]

Originally Posted by hdctx

Join the PPA and attend the convention in New Orleans in January. Get a subscription to Kelby Training ($25 a month with no commitment), a subscription to Photovision, (look for a discount code), and consider spending $35 a month with Sarah Petty on Cafe Joy. They have an basic training course on the 8th through the 11th online for free. See thejoyofmarketing.com. I'm starting out too, and it's tough to figure out where you can get a decent return on your dollar. I think all the above are a good value, but that's only my personal opinion.

fantastic advice.

the small business section of the library is also a great place to find information. while not photography-specific, the American Bar Association's Guide to Small Business was one of the best books I read in preparation to start my biz.

Photovision is really great : )

[hdctx]

I think Photovision delivers fantastic value for the $$ spent, and equally important, boosts my confidence by demystifying the work of some very talented people.

[J Eddington]

Texas School has great classes. Yes you need to join ppa. Even with out joining you can see the benefits here:Business Briefs | Professional Photographers of America
Check out :Plan. Aspire. Achieve. it is all about running your business.

[txdoc]

Definitely the PPA is one of your best bets. Also check out SCORE, they have excellent mentoring services for people new to business.