From Film School to My Own Photography & Videography Business: My Journey
Starting a business is never easy, especially in the creative world, where the road is often less defined, and success can feel like an elusive goal. But when you're passionate about what you do, that drive can help push you past any obstacle. For me, that passion has always been storytelling — and the medium I chose to tell those stories is photography and videography.
In this post, I want to take you through the journey that led me to start my own photography and videography business, how my experiences in film school and at a production studio shaped my approach, and some of the lessons I’ve learned along the way.
The Spark: Film School
Like many creative professionals, I didn’t always know exactly where my path would lead. Growing up, I was always drawn to visual storytelling, whether it was through photography, movies, or even animation. But it wasn’t until I enrolled in film school that I truly began to understand how powerful these mediums could be. Film school opened my eyes to the technical and artistic elements that go into producing high-quality work.
At first, I was fascinated with everything. From lighting to framing to editing, I wanted to try it all. But what really captivated me was the idea of creating something that could move people — whether it was a photograph that captured a single moment or a video that told an entire story. My instructors helped me hone my technical skills, and my peers pushed me creatively. The collaborative environment in film school was inspiring, and I quickly realized that this was the industry I wanted to be in.
The Experience: Working at a Production Studio
After graduating, I found myself working at a production studio. It was a great way to gain real-world experience and learn how a professional set operates. I worked on everything from corporate videos to commercials to short films, and I learned more about the business side of things than I could have imagined. From handling clients to managing budgets, there was a lot to navigate.
One of the most valuable lessons I learned at the studio was the importance of client relationships. It's not enough to just be good at what you do; you also have to be able to understand a client’s vision, communicate effectively, and deliver results that meet their expectations. The pressure of tight deadlines and the need for consistent quality really sharpened my skills — but it also taught me something important about myself: I wanted to be in control of my own projects.
Though I was gaining great experience and building my portfolio, I felt like I had more to offer. I wanted the freedom to take creative risks, experiment with different styles, and connect with clients in a more personal way. I started dreaming about running my own business and making a bigger impact on my own terms.
Taking the Leap: Starting My Own Business
Eventually, I reached the point where I couldn’t ignore the itch to go solo. I had the technical skills, the industry experience, and a portfolio that reflected my growth as a creative professional. The decision to take the leap and start my own photography and videography business was scary, but it was also the most exciting thing I’d ever done.
Like any entrepreneur, I had a lot of questions: How do I build a brand? Where do I find clients? How do I manage my time and finances? And, most importantly, can I succeed on my own?
The first year was definitely a challenge. I didn’t have the luxury of a steady paycheck anymore, and I had to hustle to make my name known in a competitive industry. I started small, offering my services to friends, family, and anyone who needed a photographer or videographer. Word of mouth was key in the beginning, and I relied heavily on social media to showcase my work and attract new clients.
But as I gained experience and built a solid reputation, things started to fall into place. I developed my own unique style — a blend of cinematic visuals and storytelling that resonated with my clients. I began to focus on niche markets, like small businesses needing brand videos, weddings, and live events. Slowly but surely, I grew my client base and expanded my skill set.
Lessons Learned
Starting a business in photography and videography isn’t just about having the best camera equipment or the most technical knowledge. It’s about finding your voice, building trust with your clients, and constantly learning and evolving. Here are a few key lessons I’ve learned over the years:
Networking is Everything: The creative industry is built on relationships. Networking with other photographers, videographers, and potential clients has been one of the most important steps in growing my business. You never know where a connection might lead, whether it’s a collaboration or a new opportunity.
Don’t Be Afraid to Invest in Yourself: When you’re starting a business, it can be tempting to skimp on the equipment or services you need to save money. But investing in quality gear, professional software, and even courses to improve your skills will always pay off in the long run.
Stay Organized: When you’re managing multiple projects, keeping track of deadlines, invoices, contracts, and client communication can become overwhelming. I use a combination of digital tools to stay organized and make sure nothing slips through the cracks.
Adaptability is Key: The world of photography and videography is always evolving. New technology, trends, and client needs mean you need to stay on your toes and be willing to adapt. Don’t be afraid to experiment with new techniques or learn a new style to stay relevant.
You’ll Make Mistakes, and That’s Okay: I’ve made my fair share of mistakes — from missing a shot to underpricing my services. But each mistake has been a learning experience, and I’ve used it to improve my craft and better serve my clients.
Looking Ahead
Looking back, it’s amazing to see how far I’ve come. What started as a passion in film school has grown into a thriving business that allows me to work with amazing clients and continue pursuing my love for storytelling. There’s still a lot I want to achieve, from expanding my team to working on larger-scale productions. But one thing is certain: I wouldn’t trade this journey for anything.
If you’re thinking about starting your own photography or videography business, my advice is simple: go for it. There will be tough times, but there will also be moments of pure joy when you see your work make an impact. Trust yourself, keep learning, and don’t be afraid to take risks. The road may be unpredictable, but it’s also full of opportunities.
Thanks for reading, and stay tuned for more updates as I continue to document and share my journey in the world of photography and videography!
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