Capturing Love and Memories: Starting a Wedding Photography Business in Colorado
Have you always had a passion for photography and a love for capturing special moments? Starting a wedding photography business in Colorado can be a rewarding and exciting venture.
Lots of creatives might want to say it’s so saturated - and yeah they’re right, there are a ton of photographers who call Colorado home. However did you know over FOURTY THOUSAND couples were married in Colorado last year? And that’s on 17th on the list of 50 states for number of weddings, there is plenty of business to go around.
With its stunning natural landscapes, vibrant wedding industry, and diverse clientele, Colorado provides the perfect canvas for photographers to express their creativity and build a thriving business. Here are some steps to help you get started:
1. Hone Your Skills and Style
Before stepping into the wedding photography industry, it's essential to develop your skills and define your unique style. Take the time to practice and experiment with different techniques, lighting, and compositions. Attend photography workshops, study online tutorials, and learn from established photographers to refine your craft and create a distinct visual aesthetic. Be true to your own style but don’t be afraid to stand out and select a niche market if it brings you joy. Also, try to find a style you like so you’re not constantly changing it. (Though honestly, my style has changed drastically since I began in 2016 so don’t be afraid of that)
2. Build Your Portfolio
A strong portfolio is key to attracting potential clients. Start by photographing friends' and family members' weddings to build a diverse collection of images. Showcase your best work on a professional website and create a curated portfolio that highlights your style, attention to detail, and ability to capture candid moments and emotions.
Some might say never discount/shoot for free and yes, there is a point where people or businesses might try to convince you to shoot for free for “exposure” but when you’re first starting out those free or discount gigs really help you A - you learn and can edit and practice with less pressure B - you will know how to value your time and set a livable wage after seeing what work goes into different types of projects.
3. Establish Your Business
Before launching your wedding photography business, take care of the essential legal and logistical aspects. Register your business and obtain the necessary permits and licenses. Set up a dedicated business bank account and establish a system for invoicing and managing finances.
You can register as a S-Corp, LLC, Sole Proprietor etc through the Colorado Secretary of State. Colorado does now require a sales tax be collected on any deliverable item, this includes digital files. So register for that as well!
Personally, I use Honeybook as a customer service manager, it has automations, workflows, great templates to start out with and more - click this link for a discount.
Colorado is famous for having several different permit process. Before you shoot anywhere, check for permits and 9 times out of 10 - you’ll need them.
4. Networking and Marketing
Networking is crucial for building your reputation and attracting clients in the wedding industry. Attend bridal shows, industry events, and join professional photography associations to connect with potential clients, vendors, and fellow photographers. Invest in a strong online presence by creating a website, maintaining active social media accounts, and showcasing your work in online wedding directories.
I belong to a group call Denver Photo Betties and volunteer for several photography related associations throughout the year as well. Both provide excellent opportunities to connect, market and get feedback from fellow creatives. Remember community over competition .
5. Pricing and Packages
Determining your pricing structure is an important part of running a successful wedding photography business. Research the local market and industry standards to set competitive rates. Create various packages that cater to different client budgets and preferences, offering options such as engagement shoots, additional coverage, and album design. Most importantly: be transparent about what each package includes to avoid confusion and build trust with your clients.
Note: A good contract should be a part of your invoicing as well, Honeybook offers some templates and I have personally used attorneys to write mine too (typically a couple hundred dollars if you’re curious on the budget)
6. Continued Growth and Learning
As a wedding photographer, it's essential to continuously grow and learn. Stay updated on the latest trends, techniques, and equipment in the industry. Seek out mentorship opportunities and participate in workshops or online courses to enhance your skills and expand your knowledge. Embrace feedback from clients and fellow photographers to continually improve your craft and take your business to new heights.
Starting a wedding photography business in Colorado can be an incredible journey of creativity and fulfillment. With dedication, passion, and a commitment to delivering exceptional service, you can create a thriving business capturing beautiful moments and preserving memories for couples on their special day. Embrace the natural beauty and vibrant wedding industry of Colorado, and let your photography business soar.
I have successfully grown my business from a part time and weekend hobby to a 6 figure business. If you ever want to book a mentor session email me at hello@mollymargaretphotography.com
