How to Start Photography Business in Kenya
6 min read
How to Start a Photography Business in Kenya
Photography is nowadays considered one of the best businesses to start in Kenya. As the world evolves, more businesses need to make their businesses visible on social media. They require a professional videographer or photographer who can capture high-quality pictures and videos for their social media content. A growing number of celebrities, too, need good pictures to post on their online platforms. You can start the business and grow as photographers are in demand to capture moments for weddings, clubs, birthdays, dowry ceremonies, and various events. In this article, Kenyansnews.com has listed the best steps to take to start a photography business in Kenya.
Steps on How to Start a Photography Business in Kenya
1. Choose Your Photography Niche
Choosing your main photography niche should be your first thought, as people will offer you a job in the field you are best known for. The more you work in one area, the more you gain experience; for example, if you choose to be a club photographer, you will be better off working in entertainment and concerts rather than taking pictures in church.
These are Photography Niches to specialize in.
- Wedding Photography
- Event Photography
- Portrait Photography
- Product Photography
- Fashion Photography
- Wildlife and Nature Photography
- Travel Photography
You can choose the ones above based on your interest.
2. Buy the Right Photography Equipment
To start photography, you need good cameras and lighting. This will ensure that you produce quality pictures and videos.
This equipment includes:
- Camera: Nikon, Canon, and Sony are the best brands.
- Lenses: A 50 mm lens is the best choice for a start.
- Tripod: To ensure stability.
- Lighting Equipment—An external flash is good for a start. Later, you can upgrade to softboxes.
- Editing Software: Nowadays, you can edit on your phone with at least 4 GB of RAM. There are apps like Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Lightroom, and later, you can upgrade to the software when you buy a laptop.
- Memory Cards: These are for storing your data in a camera; a Sandisk of 32 or 64 GB is good for a start.
4. Start to learn and improve your photography skills.
After developing an interest in photography, identifying your niche, and buying the right equipment, it is time to start improving your skills. Don’t worry. The more you do it, the more perfect you will become. Shoot and shoot and learn. Remember, it is an art.
Where can you improve your skills as a Photographer in Kenya
This is an area where you can build your skills:
- Work with professional photographers in Kenya: This helps you learn more, as they have used the equipment and know how to balance the lighting, ISO, aperture, and shutter speed of a camera.
- Self-practice—As I mentioned before, shoot more and more, taking pictures of birds, moving vehicles, people walking, raindrops, anything, and then practice editing.
- Watch YouTube Tutorials— There are so many things to learn on YouTube. For beginners in Photography, there is this YouTuber called PIMXPERFECT. Search his tutorials.
Those are just some of the things you can do to improve your photography skills. More people are attending Photography training events. Remember to take time and be patient so that you can be perfect.
5: Create a Photography Portfolio
After you start gaining some skills, showcase your nice work. If, for example, you take a good picture, use it to build your portfolio. The best way is to use WhatsApp Business; it has a place for adding a catalog. You can also create an Instagram account or a Facebook account and add your well-taken pictures and videos there.
Follow the steps below to create a good photography portfolio.
- Choose your best photos and videos from your previous work.
- Upload it to your WhatsApp Business catalog and share it on your other social media platforms.
- Mark your social media by being consistent in posting your work.
6: Market Your Photography Business
Now, after being sure you are in the business and building some confidence in your work, it is time to market your job. This is because this field has good money; therefore, there are so many photographers, too, so you need to stand out in your business. I’ll explain what you can do to market your photography business.
How to Market Your Photography Business
Marketing is an important strategy to gain more clients in your Photography Business, which includes
- Build more networks—attend many events based on your niche.
- Use Paid Advertisements: Nowadays, there is an option for paid advertising on every social media platform to help you reach more clients.
- Partnerships: Work with other photographers whom you trust, such as wedding planners, event organizers, and celebrities.
7: Set Your Photography Prices
Setting your price tag makes sure you make a profit while remaining competitive.
Consider the following factors when setting your price:.
- Your skill level—beginners charge a lower rate as compared to professionals.
- Your niche—wedding photography—generally costs more.
- Cost of Equipment You Have: Photographers with expensive gadgets charge more.
- Market rates: Your price should not be too high compared to other photographers, as clients may find alternatives.
Average Pricing Rates for Photographers in Kenya
- Wedding Photography: Ksh 30,000–Ksh 150,000 per event.
- Event Photography: Ksh 5,000–Ksh 50,000 per session.
- Portrait Photography: Ksh 2,000–Ksh 10,000 per session.
- Product photography: Ksh 500–Ksh 5,000 per image.
8. Manage Your Finances
To maintain your photography business, you also need to manage your finances properly.
Follow the steps below:
- Open a bank account; keep personal and business accounts separate.
- Track your expenses—use QuickBooks to track them.
- Ensure your equipment—remember, it is expensive. If it is stolen or damaged, you will lose a lot.
- Save money and upgrade your gadgets. Good photography equipment plus skills result in high-quality photos and videos.
9. Register Your Business
Thereafter, you start getting more clients; you need to register your photography business through the eCitizen online platform or visit a Huduma Center for assistance and register your company as a sole proprietorship or partnership. This will make you operate your business legally and be trusted by clients.
10. Get insurance for your photography gear
After acquiring various photography equipment, it is necessary to secure it from incidents of theft under a certified insurance company. Since you have spent much on gadgets, this is necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to start a photography business in Kenya?
Starting a photography business depends on your niche. A basic setup costs from Ksh 50,000 to Ksh 200,000, depending on your financial status and the type of equipment you need.
Does photography pay in Kenya?
Yes, it pays well, especially in weddings, product, and club photography. The salary range is Ksh 50,000 to 300,000 per month.
How much do photographers charge per photo in Kenya?
Pricing depends on skills and the niche of studio and outdoor photography and ranges from Ksh 400 to Ksh 5,000 per photo. Commercial photography from Ksh 2,000 to Ksh 10,000 per photo.
What are the challenges of running a photography business in Kenya?
- Market Competition: If you visit Nairobi Street during the day, you will see thousands of photographers, which shows you how competitive it is.
- Theft of Cameras: This is a significant challenge as thieves know the value of this equipment; there have been so many reported cases of photography equipment theft, so be very cautious when people book you for a shoot and make sure they first pay a deposit to be sure their intention is clear.
- High Cost of Equipment: Cameras, lenses, and lighting are expensive.
Conclusion
Starting a photography business in Kenya can benefit you and be your dream job if you are passionate and use the right strategy. Choosing the right niche, investing in better equipment, and using a good marketing approach can make you successful.