I want to start my own business in photography. Where do I start?

I am a mom of 3 kids. I also work full time. I did find a school I want to go to but cant find the time to do so. Is a degree really necessary to start a business in photography? How would I get started.

No, a degree is not necessary, however, it helps a lot. Take for instance, a writer. Everyone can write, but only a well trained and experienced writer can write well. Or a painter. Anyone can paint, but without knowledge and experience, that person will not be able to produce much of anything. So, a degree in photography is not needed, but with everything from lighting to printing, it's highly doubtful a person can master it all without formal training.

After all this, you'll need a good camera and lenses. For the area that you're looking into, I would suggest, as an example, a Nikon D300 and a 17-55mm f2.8, and a Nikon D80 as a backup body and a 70-200mm f2.8 VR. For portraits, a 24-70mm f2.8, an 85mm f1.4, or a 135mm DC f2.8. As you can see, the gear alone is very expensive, so you might consider taking out a business loan.

People earning an art degree strive to be as good as painters who didn't have a degree. Report It

No degree is necessary, but you have to be a good photographer and have some expensive cameras, lights and lenses to take the pictures, then a way of printing them and possibly software for editing. Plus you must have ads and business cards to get your name out and examples of your work to show perspective customers, plus a brochure that describes your services and fees, and the time to shoot the pictures and address all the other business issues such as taxes.

Well the first is to find a company name then go to your citycounty building (cant remember the name of the dept. but if you call they can direct you to the right dept.) and see if that name is take yet and if not file for your tax id number and get your company name registered. Then its all up to you to advertise and get your business started. GL

Start with a fantastic portfolio presented in a professional looking folder I recommend a Cannon d30 or Nikon 40 with two lenses zoom and closeup also back lighting and flash

Don't forget liability insurance!

You don't need a photography degree, you do need the knowledge. If you can get away a few hours a week there are usually college classes in basic photography. Some community centers and local photographers may offer classes. Online there are places like this: http://www.betterphoto.com . If you are a thorough, inquisitive and self directed person you can find all the knowledge you need online.
Your local Chamber of Commerce can help you find business information.