How to start a photography business in 5 days: Small business Documentary

[@officialkartiksharma]

Having just moved across to a different country and entering into peak winter, struggling financially and being unsure if this was the right move - this video popped up on my feed. Thank you Jai for being my source of motivation in such an uncertain time. I've giving myself a week to book in a wedding from today. I'm holding myself accountable, just like you did in this video. So pumped, I'm heading to the library and printing flyers to distribute at every possible popular walk way possible! Thanks Jai, you're incredible.

[@jailongco]

Amazing! I'm so grateful that this has found you at such a perfect moment, and it's exactly the reason we wanted to make this documentary. Thank you for reaching out! Good luck with your endeavours. You will crush it.

[@marioonmusic9499]

thank you so much for sharing your journey with us, this video has been so helpful for me, i've been doing photography on the side for a while but still struggle to find customers when i move to a new city, this time i want to make it work for real, and seeing this today has changed my perspective, i'll never give up ♥

[@jailongco]

Thank you so much for sharing this-it means so much to hear that the video resonated with you! Moving to a new city and building a client base can definitely be challenging, but your determination shines through, and I know you can make it work. If you’re looking for extra support, I have the Six-Figure Business Map- sixfigurebusinessmap.com , an online course with a community of hundreds of photographers. It’s designed to help you grow your business, find customers, and navigate challenges like these. You've got this-never give up! ♥

[@zenofthemoment]

How many people say ‘get uncomfortable’. The difference here is, you showed us what it looks like. I believe great education is inspiring, and you just gave us a great education. Weddings aren’t my thing, but it translates perfectly. Thank you! 🙏

[@zenofthemoment]

How many people say ‘get uncomfortable’. The difference here is, you showed us what it looks like. I believe great education is inspiring, and you just gave us a great education. Weddings aren’t my thing, but it translates perfectly. Thank you! 🙏 Let me ask you this: Do you go after it once you think your work is of satisfactory quality, or do you just go, and figure the rest out as you go? I don’t know when my work will be good enough. I’m working to get good enough. However, I don’t want to practice forever. So when do you know you’re ready?

[@smolblue1239]

“Whether or not I’m successful, plays no role in my success”. That has stuck with me. As a student just about to graduate from my two year course in film making, I’m often scared about future endeavours and whether I can secure work. Midway through last year I found a love for not just cinematography and videography but photography. Coming into this year I felt immense weight with every photo I took that it had to be the one that would kick start my career. Hearing those words just helped me remember why I am doing this. It’s truely inspiring to see other people highlighting the Melbourne photography scene. Thank you.

[@jailongco]

@@smolblue1239 thank you my friend. Yeah we all do it for different reasons I guess and I think taking the pressure off yourself is key. We do this because we love it, not because we need to be seen as successful ❤️

[@greycardmedia]

Take a look at the interview going into day 4. There is a lot of clips where the interview audio is missing or muted. It’s unfortunate because it’s a very fundamental memory. The first spot is 29:00 to 29:05

[@jailongco]

I know it's such a shame. We can't fix it unfortunately

[@wes_333]

you have no idea how long i have been looking for a video like this. thanks so much for making this!!

[@willypaul70]

Dude, what you said is the most important thing in life, not just photography……”I feel extremely successful. Whether or not the outcome is successful or it’s not, it plays no role in my success.” It is so important in anything we do, to remember that the THING you do might be successful, or not, even a fail! But what you do does not define you!! Each step in life is a journey and you improve over time, which includes successes and failures. Thanks for saying that so clearly and succinctly. Cheers!

[@rodcage1111]

I had to laugh when your friends mentioned, "when are you going to slow down, you're in your 30's now", I almost spat my coffee, as if your 30's are past it, I'm still doing this in my 50's, but great video, very inspirational.

[@quimby5150]

Can not tell you how much this hit home for me. Im an eletrician that has given that up to be a food and product photographer! Thanks for the insprirasion to drive harder..

[@A.opal.]

I’m a military wife, just moved to Hawaii… really struggling to find clients, there are sooo many great photogs here . I was on the beach with my camera the other day and saw so many adorable little vignettes… a mama and baby playing in the sand, a couple in love… I thought to ask them if I could take their pics but was afraid of rejection… I loved seeing you do this, I hope next time I’m in that position I step outside of my comfort zone and go for it.

[@jailongco]

Thank you for sharing and I am glad you found this video!! ♥

[@ToddMcGee-i4g]

This was just amazing. I'm retired and getting into photography as my passion but want to approach it as a business. I have no idea what I'm doing, and the temptation to be discouraged is constant. Your documentary was courageous and helped me to see beyond my insecurities. I'm inspired! Thanks for giving back.

[@sebastianprada8051]

Thanks for this story, it make me believe that i can have what ever i want if I have the purpose to help others

[@saraboychuk_]

This deserves wayyyy more views!! Amazing Jai

[@vibez3161]

I love this video. It is my favorite on across KZbin. If this was a saying or a picture it would be tattooed on me. Its my inspiration now.

[@jailongco]

@@vibez3161 thank you so much my friend 🏴‍☠️❤️

[@toyindawudu]

I remember watching this beautiful documentary when you had it on your website. It still a beautiful watch! We need part 2 🤗…

[@jailongco]

Thank you! Was such a fun adventure. I'm glad you loved it. And watch this space, Jack Short 2 is coming..

[@Victor_Anaya]

I’m only halfway through the video but this is incredibly inspiring. Granted I’m only 19 so I’m fairly young which makes it all the more intimidating (especially with the legal side) but I’ve recently decided to pursue photography and I noticed the biggest difference I saw in you was just doing it. You were willing to put yourself out there and it showed me that what’s really holding me back is myself, thank you so much for this video, it has really inspired me and I’m going to really push myself to get after it. I’ve already shot a wedding on my own and I thought 1 wedding wasn’t enough for a portfolio but this showed me that it is more than enough to get started.

[@jailongco]

Thank you so much for your words and amazing work pursuing photography! Keep up the work and keep showing up! Can't wait to hear how you go! 😃

[@christophersharman8171]

Wow wow wow, you are so inspiring. I am 63 years young and about to retire from my day job to become an event and headshot photographer full time and throw myself into my dream, thank you from the bottom of my heart for this inspirational video and this only affirms my believe that I will be a success

[@jailongco]

Amazing work! so happy to hear that you are living out your dream- keep it up!

[@MissPurpleNine]

Just became a huge fan! It takes a huge person to talk about their past like that to anyone…much less anyone!

[@jailongco]

Thanks my friend ♥

[@PearceWeddingPhotography]

the effort you put into this video is incredible

[@abigailmorris8333]

Your voice cut out on the video some. Man I love this. Tears. You are such a special person. Thank you for sharing. I’ve been down on myself with starting my photography business. It’s been a struggle for sure. Thank you for giving me the push I needed.

[@dustinhess5204]

I’m just getting started as a photographer and this hit deep my friend this was truly inspiring and it really made me see that going old school and putting boots on the ground is still the sure fire way to go 🙏📸

[@jailongco]

love it!! Thanks for taking the time to watch 🧡

[@brandon_krage]

Finally Watched this. Nice work Jai. Definitely helping with my motivation!

[@jailongco]

@@brandon_krage thanks my friend!! Glad you enjoyed it ❤️

[@DannyLes]

one of the best youtube videos i've seen. incredible production quality and message. extremely inspirational to someone who's diving into photography in a new continent as well. thanks mate

[@JohnHoulePhotography]

This is the first time I hear about you but I just want to say I appreciate what you're doing. Very cool to see you put yourself in circumstances that restrict you and show your process. Thanks for this! Will be watching more of you!

[@jailongco]

Thank you my friend! 🧡

[@matthieulenz183]

It’s so motivating. And showed me that I don’t have to overthink everything from time to time. Thaks!

[@jailongco]

Love that ❤️

[@VivekM1]

This is such a beautiful video. I didn't know what I was expecting when I started watching this video but by the end of it, I was emotional, motivated, grabbed the camera and ready to go out !

[@jailongco]

@@VivekM1 I’m glad you enjoyed it! And I appreciate the comment as well. Thank you 💛

[@SumrSurf]

amazing vid Jai ,what an inspiration.

[@zoerockett8341]

You don’t know how much of a positive impact you have. I really appreciated that show how you can start with no money

[@mariarico4508]

I’m glad that I found this video is very inspiring. My story is that I love photography since my parents started their photography business in Mexico, I was very young when I started to take photos on weddings and quinceañeras helping my parents to take more then one event on a day. I love it and I have beautiful memories. Then I got merrier and migrate to USA and my husband told me that he doesn’t want me working, I agreed because we had our first son and I want to be there for my family. Now I want to become a photographer again because my sons are teenagers and I still love photography. I have a Canon 7D and looking forward to buy a good lens for my camera and I want to start with photo sessions. Even if I don’t have support with my husband… Thank you for taking the time to make this nice video!

[@weekendstoriesco]

Wasn't sure if you had this video available after I watched it the first time last year but FINALLY!! This documentary helped gave me the push needed to pursue what I wish to do. Thank you Jai! ❤

[@jailongco]

Perfect! Have you seen our second documentary - One Step Closer? If not, watch out on our channel. It's coming soon!

[@CP4_TV]

Amazing work Jai very motivational

[@Jacobyacobelli]

Best video on how to becoming a wedding photographer that I’ve seen. You need to put more content out man you’re incredible and very inspiring! Thank you!🙏

[@JeanTubbaliPhotography]

I truly admire the dedication for this particular documentation. I am a fan. The mentality, creativity, and the hustle are incredible. Im moved by this video.

[@stormfalconstudios]

That was amazing. Thank you for doing this, it's very inspiring.

[@anatolipolyakov753]

I really enjoy all aspects of this work. The editing, the concept, the design, the audio, this is brilliant work. Great work.

[@jailongco]

Thank you so much for taking the time to leave a comment and I am glad you enjoyed it! 🧡

[@chibuzonweze3291]

For most of us just starting photography We would likely do a few shoots Post online and hope for the best, but watching this I really have to sum up the courage to do the footwork for my photography business. Thanks for doing this

[@lindashepherd804]

The most amazing inspiring video I've watched!!! I'm 62 and feel very uncomfortable starting out with my photography business, but your video and story, so similar to mine has renewed the inspiration in me. Thank you for helping so many!!!

[@jailongco]

Thank you so much for your feedback Linda and please follow your inspiration thats where the magic happens!

[@viniciuslll]

Amazing work on video and amazing personality

[@Leo_Davis_]

Finally, something different out there. It seems everyones video are all "copy and paste" these days. This was new, and completely worth the watch! Like a lot of people watching these videos, i am working on getting my photography business going. I will make it! This was perfect. Thank you so much!

[@jailongco]

Thank youu so much for watching!!

[@diego.rodrigueza]

this is great quality content, Im inspired by it. Trully keep it up, love this documentary no fast and flashy edits content. Congrats

[@Seblephotographe]

This is inspiring, decided to go all in on photography a week ago! Visited shops, offered photos videos, reaching couples I know will get married this year. This video is a big pat on the back, like keep on going you’ll reach the goal! Plus the video quality and story telling is fire.

[@jailongco]

thank you for the feedback and I am so glad it helped! keep on going! :D

[@Loki_Dokie]

Thanks buddy, this gives me the kick I needed. ❤ I wanted to add that I appreciate you sharing your story, and that this has to be one of the best KZbin videos I have ever watched and probably ever will. Everything was perfect. Now I need to dust off my boots, get to shooting a portfolio and put myself out there. I actually asked a restaurant I visited today if they hired a photographer for their Xmas party that I saw was on the 11th. They said no, but I got out of my comfort zone a little and just figured why not. 😊

[@ashleighvermaak]

Loved the video! So encouraging for someone starting out who keeps thinking they're not ready. Thanks Jai :)

[@zidane9958]

Thank you for the huge inspiration, motivation and faith🙏🏽

[@fotosoki]

I'm seeing a version of my last week... amazing. Thank you for this.

[@esmusssosein5033]

Nice stuff bro

[@seleynieortiz1050]

this was such a masterpiece. thank you for sharing this. i needed it.

[@KellyBecktaPhotography]

I needed this today, I loved every minute, so motivating, thank you

[@jvf1970]

Love your approach and this documentary, well done 👏🏼

[@nicolebailey6761]

This is SO inspiring Jai!! Thank you so very much for your amazing encouragement. You truly are such a massive inspiration and help. Many thanks, Nicole

[@rachelle.nicole]

Love this video so much! I've been in a photography slump with it being slow season and having no bookings this year. This video and all your podcasts & other content always inspire me in a way that no other creator has. Thank you so much for all you do!!!

[@jailongco]

Glad you enjoyed this documentary!!

[@lizzymichaels]

If I could like this video a hundred times I would! It’s so inspiring..I’m getting uncomfortable now❤

[@FilipLjungberg]

Jai, your inspiration is truly remarkable! Thank you immensely for your incredible encouragement.

[@martingarcia6052]

Big fan! Loved it

[@AmyMax127]

Im becoming a single mom. My situation, i can't be without my daughter in this season. Ive always taught yoga. Yet, ive alway aspired to be an artist and take beautiful photos. I've felt lost lately.... impossible. This. Thank you for inspiring me. Shalom to you

[@DanielleLi]

I loved watching this. It brought back so many memories of my beginning and how much I had to believe in myself when I started. Well done for doing this! ❤️

[@tamasszabo30]

I'm Tomi. 29 years old. I want to be a photographer besides my job. I found this video tonight and I must say it was fantastic. One of the best things I have seen in photography. Unfortunately I can't get started but I feel this will help. I keep fighting with myself that I can't do it. I wouldn't be able to take the good pictures a couple would want. I wouldn't be able to pose them. I couldn't do this and I couldn't do that. Did you have that feeling in the beginning? How can we change this?I am very grateful to you.

[@rickbiessman6084]

Thanks Jai for this really inspirational experiment! I was amazed to see how emotionally invested you were, even though it didn’t seem like there was anything on the line for you. And also thanks so much for sharing part of your personal story. My childhood was nothing like yours, which maybe has left me kinda complacent as opposed to driven to get a better life. I’m sorry for what you had to go through, but I admire that you managed to get so far. Cheers mate.

[@chris0628]

Thank you …. So inspiring 👌🏾

[@buzz6989]

Great documentary!! Well done !! Would love to see more on what happened at the wedding dress boutiques and how you handled that.

[@jailongco]

Thank you! That is a great idea for a video! I would love to share more about this!

[@Kristaldaniella]

First time viewer and new sub here! I watched this entire video on normal speed (that speaks to how immersed i was!) Thank you for being so raw, vulnerable, and open while sharing this experience with us. When you said it really isnt that hard and how sometimes people make things harder than they should. I am people. And that really struck me. It doesnt have to be hard and complex taking a leap and working towards your dream... just lead with love and remember common sense is key haha i loved the message in this documentary. Thank you to you both! Much love ❤

[@Kristaldaniella]

Not to mention the wave of emotion that came over me when i read "get uncomfortable, your dreams are worth it" 💯🙏🏾 thank you

[@jailongco]

@@Kristaldaniella thank you for your kind words! ❤

[@alfredodacosta_]

INSPIRED!!🙌🏾

[@mitchdiedrick1213]

So inspiring man. Thanks for making this.

[@jailongco]

thank you man! ❤

[@threetravelingpages]

Love the vibes! just subscribed and looking forward to seeing your journey!

[@milanjani]

Awesome. May i ask what camera you shot this footage with?

[@jailongco]

we used a sony A7iii

[@milanjani]

@@jailongcothis is unbelievable. Skin tones look so good that I am speechless. I thought only Canon can achieve this kind of results. May I know you used slog or standard picture profile? Any hint of your editing and color grading workflow of this footage will help. If someone starting out as photographer and shooting portraits or weddings is the main target, what camera you recommend?

[@500edwina]

thank you for this!

[@linie1450]

You don’t need model release to post their photos?

[@vibinginmycity]

I use a canon rebel t7 what lens should i use to give my clients the quality pictures that theyll cherish forever

[@kaila6840]

I also have the same camera wondering the same thing! I saw. Another KZbinr recommend these lenses Lenses: Canon 50mm 1.4 $350 Canon 50mm 1.8 $125 (alt to above - both for portraits/headshots. Note: a prime lens) Canon 70-300mm 4-5.6 ~$159 (wedding photos, sports, portraits) Canon 85mm 1.8 ~$300 (her favorite for landscape and portraits) Canon 24-70mm 4.0 or 2.8 Ouf we should connect on instagram?

[@Street_photographyGK]

Hey guys , how can I start side hustling with photography , mostly like street photography??? Thank you

[@kallihicksphotography]

“I’ve got energy because I’ve got a purpose”

[@anna_murawski]

For someone who has invested so much into their learning and their photography but cannot bring myself to start my business, this video was so inspiring but yet heartbreaking. One day, hopefully I'll do it

[@anna_murawski]

I felt like fate wanted me to see this video

[@jailongco]

Glad it came at the right time! 🧡

[@jrfstudio]

I reckon you love the word reckon 😂

[@jailongco]

I reckon I do!

[@luissalazar2021]

Wow, this is what I’m being struggling with,how to communicate with people, you are amazing 🥲 I am so blessed , thank you very much, my photoshop is freaking Raw , I hope you have some tips on it. Thanks for sharing!

[@jailongco]

Thanks for watching my friend!