New photo business

The first thing you will need is a portfolio to show what type of work you do. If you are in the US, the small business administration may be very helpful. Recommendations by people in the wedding industry would also be helpful. Most areas in the US now have bridal shows that expose the various businesses tied into weddings to those who are getting married. That would be a wonderful way to show off your talents and win customers. In order to do this, you will have to appear as professional as possible with a nice layout of your work, business cards, contracts, etc. In the meantime, maybe even do a mailer to those who appear in the newspapers in the engagement column. I hope this helps. Don't forget about putting together a very nice website with your sample pics also listed. Make sure you copyright those pictures, also.

Christy, are you an experienced photographer? Have you done professional work before? I have 9 years experience as a pro. I left the field a little over a decade ago and am trying to revive my business. Even for me it is darn tough to get established. The competition is brutal, and I'd like to think that I am pretty darn good at what I do. I am not trying to discourage you, but know that you have the likes of me also trying to make a living and competing with you, and I have shot over 300 weddings, worked for Fortune 500 companies, worked for 4 portrait studios, and owned two photo businesses in the past--and I am struggling! I say, if it is your true passion to pursue this field, don't let anyone or anything stop you until you succeed, but know that it will be tough as heck to make a living.