Event and portrait photographer

Families, small businesses, community groups, event organisers and professionals who need headshots.

Fixed price per session or an hourly event rate, with extras for additional edited images, prints and quick turnaround.

• Camera and lighting skills
• Photo editing
• Putting people at ease
• Clear quotes and bookings

• Public liability insurance, and cover for your camera gear
• Many venues and councils require permits or permission for commercial shoots in parks and public spaces, so check with the local council
• Working with children usually needs a check, so check your state's requirements
• Use written contracts and model or photo release forms, and be clear about who owns the copyright
• Register for an ABN, and check when GST registration applies as your turnover grows

Startup costs are typically around $1,500 to $7,000, depending on your camera and lighting gear, editing software, insurance and marketing. Starting with a modest kit and upgrading as bookings grow can keep costs down.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $500 to $4,000, depending on how many shoots you book and what you charge. This is revenue, not profit. Expect at least about 8 hours a week, plus editing time.

Check public liability and equipment cover, and whether the local council requires permits for commercial shoots in parks and public spaces. Working with children usually needs a check in your state. Use written contracts, be clear on copyright, and check when GST registration applies.