Start up studios

Recent and current students on our photography courses Judith Wood, Gary Bowker and David Coleman all start their new wedding and portrait businesses during February and March. They are situated right across the UK, Judith in Suffolk, David in Southport and Gary in Newcastle. All will be receiving massive support from Barrett & Coe in the launch of their studios and will benefit from full diaries from our national partnerships when they launch.

Starting a photography business is a big undertaking and involves many aspects apart from photography including business set-up, studio layout, process and management awareness, marketing and sales.

It is essential to have a formal business plan, which includes financial planning and marketing strategies in the first step in any entrepreneurial adventure. It is necessary to know how much a business is going to cost in terms of set-up and ongoing overheads, as well as the likely turnover expected.

Students learn on the courses how to make a clear plan for the business and the likely volumes that marketing efforts will realise.

Research is important when scouting a location for a studio. It needs to be located fairly centrally within the area going to be marketed. Consideration needs to be given as to how clients will reach the location so good transport links and easy parking are paramount.

The studio space will need to be creatively designed to make customers feel comfortable and not want to rush home. There must be a warm and friendly feel, particularly important for young mums with babies, as this may be their first trip out having left hospital. Requirements include having full baby changing facilities, including spare bibs, dummies, nappies and so on.

Learn more about what is required to start your own photography business by joining one of our wedding or portrait courses. Call 01603 629739 or request a brochure for more information.