How to become a Professional Dog Photographer: explained in 15 minutes.

[@britneysoto5814]

So happy I found your channel! You provide so much value and I love your bluntness.

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Welcome aboard!

[@bernardomeza6906]

1. I have had a massive crush for you since the first video I saw, you’re just so confident and genuine and funny in a very witty and sarcastic way. 2. With that our of the way lol, how did you learn so much about the back end of the business? Did you study economy or marketing at a university? What courses would you recommend? I really don’t know how to price my work as a newcomer photographer here in Costa Rica, despite dog photography here being relatively new, I feel people don’t pay as much for photos here as they do in other countries. 3. When you say cost of living, what if I invested in a lot of top notch equipment (because I’m a doctor and really like photography, even considering switching professions)… now that I got all that gear, how much should I charge if I didn’t even have to ask for a loan for this? Bit confused here. 4. You’re my biggest inspiration, I’ve learnt so much with your videos, I don’t know, if you do private coaching sessions or if it’s only through online courses? Big hug Bernardo

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

We do private 1-2-1 sessions, check them out here - www.thattogspot.com/online-photography-one-to-ones/?v=79cba1185463 There are also lots of courses to help you, which can be found here - www.thattogspot.com/online-photography-courses/?v=79cba1185463 Hope that helps! 🤗

[@ryandevenish268]

Great video. Any suggestions on camera equipment/public liability insurers in the UK please? It's all a bit confusing!

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Thank you 🙏 Most high street insurance companies are able to offer public liability and business insurance for the cover of kit so worth contacting them to see what they can offer.

[@ValdiValdies]

Just curious, why not to use Wix ?

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

I’ve answered this a few times in comments here so I’ll just copy and paste if that’s ok? Wix sites are not great really for a number of reasons, they don't tend to be fully responsive, the code is enormous which slows down site load speed (bad for customers and SEO) and they tend to be poor renderers for search engine bots, like Googles. They aren't the worst of the worst of the worst, but there are better options out there!

[@susancampbell2859]

Thanks Jess!! Just what I needed to hear right now.....I'm paralyzed to move forward with my photography because I don't want to fail or stink at it....I just need to push on....

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Be brave! Remember, nothing truly great ever came from sitting in your comfort zone 💜

[@PatThompsonNL]

As a self employed entrepreneur for over 35 years, I think you nailed it. Whether it’s photography, consulting or being in the retail business the principals are all the same. As a photography hobbiest I love photography, especially animal photography. And I know - what I love about it, would be absolutely ruined if I was to try try and monetize it. So for the most of us who are not going to be earth changing Karsh’s, enjoy the wonderful compliments from friends and enjoy your hobby. Keep your day job:) You’re a pretty smart young lady for someone so young:)

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

"what I love about it, would be absolutely ruined if I was to try try and monetize it" - this is so very true!!

[@kateanderson4590]

Hey Jess, just wondering if you could explain why not to use Wix to make a website? It seems to me to be a zero cost option and where you can just send your clients to find info and display images. Thanks for the great video!

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Check out the rest of the comments on this video, there's a comment about this 💪🏼

[@kateanderson4590]

@@ThatPhotographySpot oh sorry I didn't see - thankyou!

[@miltongopa]

I have been thinking about becoming a pro photographer. This has been really helpful. Thank you a lot.

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Glad it was helpful! 🥳

[@russellallan8564]

wonderful. I think there is a reason I am watching my 7th video today of yours. So charismatic, knowledgeable and easy to listen to. Chapeau!

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

amazing feedback, thank you 🙏

[@aheathenoutdoors]

I like presets. But with that said...I have never found ANY that didn't need to be tweaked in some way after applying.

[@davedaly5411]

Your very informative and intelligent young lady Thanx for the channel.

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Thank you for the lovely comment!

[@davedaly5411]

LOL! You english ladies with your phrase {LOVELY} Love hearing it.

[@isabellegauthier1254]

Thank you so much for your video, I see it's 3 years ago but I'm new at photography and it is such an awesome help. It's very interesting and enlightening. It wasn't boring at all. You're a fountain of knowledge. Can't thank you enough. 💕🌞

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Thank you for such kind words and I am so glad that this was helpful 🤓🙏

[@Lucamitm]

Hi, when you talk about insurance, are there ones that cover both the business aspect and photography equipment if you’re going solo at first? Thanks

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Yes 🤗

[@christinerush2351]

Fab no nonsense advice. Thank you! I have a long way to go!

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

You got this! Take small steps and make each one count!

[@nigelwallace248]

Thanks Jess for the video and I didn’t think it was a morbid video at all. I think it is super sound advice , honest and it is how the photography world is these days. Tough business but super rewarding if you get it right.

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

I totally agree!

[@pattymattes7124]

Thanks for your video. I actually found it encouraging. I've done quite a few steps already. My outlook on this is any thing that is worthwhile is worth the hard work. Maybe because I'm older and worked in a few jobs over the years I know it's not easy. Working with people never is. Things go wrong. It's expected. The job I'm doing now is a perfect example. Part of my job is going door to door literally. Yes, I've had doors shut in my face but for every one that did I have about five or six more who didn't. I've always loved photography since I was very little and my parents trusted me with their camera to take on a field trip. I guess the best word to describe how I feel about it is that it's like magic. Anyway, I've enjoyed every single one of your videos. I'm still working on the action shots and the other day I saw improvement and am pleased. I should post them on your FB page for critique. Haven't edited them yet but been busy with the temporary job.

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

I think those with more life experience know that things aren't instant and they take time - it's a fact of photography that really is important to know! Thank you for your kind words today and good luck with your action photos!! x

[@samkurz]

I've been.walking dogs for years and taking tons of pictures. But not professional. I've learned to take good shots but barely no editing and using my cell phone. I need a good to get a new camera and learn editing. I think the first thing you have to do is love dogs and know how to take a good shot. Then editing. Getting you dogs to pose is challenging but I've learned to be good at it.

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Yes, loving dogs and animals in general is a must ☺

[@ginarayment3544]

A great video, thanks for sharing as always :)

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Thanks for watching! ❤️

[@martinstokes5596]

Thanks for sharing ..Some great advice and thoughts

[@MrSmith4545]

I just made my website on wix : / any reason in particular you don't like wix?

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Not really, it's just each to their own - we all like different things!

[@superbrokul]

Great video! I was wondering about the IPS. In Spain is not really as common as in the UK and peopl don't really want albums or wallart of their dogs. I still do IPS, but my goal is to help them choose their favourite images and tell them it's ok if they want to select a higher package. It's all digitals though. I tried with products but it seems that people are not that interested in them. What to do 🤷

[@shiraleeswan7550]

Thank you for your advice & guidance. I love your straight forward way of putting things

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

No problem! Hope it helps!

[@demi-leighfreeman5937]

Hey Jess, I don't know if you have, but ever thought of writing a book? I think you hold some vital knowledge! Fantastic x

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Aww thank you! We do have books on the cards but not like ones that would be in a book shop!

[@ppww6076]

Great straight talking. Awesome.🙂

[@dbv11]

Thank you.

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

You're welcome!

[@catherinemcgirt2589]

I'm in aggreance with this.

[@MarieNuchols]

Wow, speaking truth, not morbid at all. Important info. Thanks for sharing the nitty gritty.

[@mikkelhjensen]

Thanks for your videos! Love your content. The “special” lens category you mention in the video, does a 50mm 1.2 and a 300mm 2.8 go in that category? I’m currently running a small graphic designer business and want to go more over to photography for my income.. hopefully I can make the switch! Last question.. why don’t use wix? I’m currently using wix for my website. Thanks again for your content!

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Hey Mikkel, yes, they sure would! I answered the Wix Q below, let me copy the response here: Wix sites are not great really for a number of reasons, they don't tend to be fully responsive, the code is enormous which slows down site load speed (bad for customers and SEO) and they tend to be poor renderers for search engine bots, like Googles. They aren't the worst of the worst of the worst, but there are better options out there!

[@mikkelhjensen]

That Dog Spot thanks for your reply!

[@karendavies2951]

To kick start things, would you ever suggest running some kind of prize draw for a session? Getting little add of likes and lovely comments but no bookings?

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Yes and no, usually this does tend to sometimes attract the wrong crowd, with people looking for freebies/very low cost things. So although great for portfolio building, it's unlikely to yield longer term interest. It doesn't harm to get more social follows, but these people may or may not be your target client so use with caution and a pinch of salt!

[@karendavies2951]

Thank you!

[@TeamHoff1]

Hi Jess. Another great video. I have several questions. Like everyone else I made the wix mistake. Im not a programmer or designer so would struggle with coding my own. Is Squarespace, therefore a viable option? Public liability how much is the correct amount? I recently could have got a gig but didn't have this. Logos...actually struggling to find someone to design one, ideally I'd like to be able to chat to them even if that is online. Thanks for the videos they are ace.

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Hey Scott, thanks for the kind words. 1) Yes, Squarespace is relatively straightforward and there are lots of how-to youtube videos for it too! 2) Insurance will be dependant on what you do I think, I've just checked mine and it is for £1m but £2m is an option for higher protection - it is relatively inexpensive to get 3) Logos are hit and miss but a decent place to get a lovely signature one is photologo.co/ and similar providers. Etsy also has good designers on. You could look at Fiverr and the likes but the quality is much more variable. Hope this helps!

[@TeamHoff1]

@@ThatPhotographySpot thanks for that. Yes I used fiverr for my signature wanted something better tbh will have a look

[@sabi_ne]

Thanks for all the tips.. I'm planning to offer photography sessions on the side. I actually put my website up on wix 😅 what's wrong with wix?

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Wix sites are not great really for a number of reasons, they don't tend to be fully responsive, the code is enormous which slows down site load speed (bad for customers and SEO) and they tend to be poor renderers for search engine bots, like Googles. They aren't the worst of the worst of the worst, but there are better options out there!

[@sabi_ne]

@@ThatPhotographySpot damn.. I would have needed that info last week 😂

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Sorry 🤦‍♀️ In my defence I do think I included it in the business things for lockdown video! 🙈

[@sabi_ne]

@@ThatPhotographySpot haha 😂 guess I should have watched your videos more carefully then or all of them for that matter 🤷‍♀️ oh well, I'll make it work for now. I'm not trying to go big yet so I guess it'll be ok

[@sabi_ne]

@@pellier08 I guess it's not gonna be easy but I'm not only offering pet photography. And I haven't actually seen a lot of pet photographers in my area. 😊👍

[@ShaylaBear19]

What’s wrong with wix?

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Wix sites are not great really for a number of reasons, they don't tend to be fully responsive, the code is enormous which slows down site load speed (bad for customers and SEO) and they tend to be poor renderers for search engine bots, like Googles. They aren't the worst of the worst of the worst, but there are better options out there!

[@April_idk]

Help me comments! I been a professional wedding photographer for 10 years. I quite this summer and am happily picking up dog photography.. guess I can't help myself. I have everything ready to start buisness-ing, besides a camera. Bought a sony, moving away from canon and.. it broke me. I just can't get into a comfortable flow with this camera and everyone around me seems to think I'm nuts. Because, on paper, it's the perfect snappy shooter. Am I nuts? Help?

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Not at all, if it’s not vibing with you, try another camera for sure! If you want mirrorless I here the canon ones aren’t too bad! You need to be comfortable and confident in your equipment, it’s ok to not like the Sony’s ☺️

[@April_idk]

@@ThatPhotographySpot I wonder if it's the smaller "body" type I got. I might try the regular a7III, because the AF is amazing!

[@paulwilcock4351]

Hi Jess, this is a really interesting video with a lot of good advice. One thing you mentioned was not to use WIX but you didn't follow it up with a reason. I am asking because - you have probably guessed it, I have just renewed my yearly subscription with them. Are they really that bad? What parts of their Site are lacking? I appreciate this is your viewpoint and everyone is entitled to an opinion but knowing your thoughts on this platform will allow me to consider their weaknesses and identify a work-around until my subscription is up for renewal. Kind regards, Paul Wilcock

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Sure, I answered this point in the comments somewhere so I'll copy and paste: Wix sites are not great really for a number of reasons, they don't tend to be fully responsive, the code is enormous which slows down site load speed (bad for customers and SEO) and they tend to be poor renderers for search engine bots, like Googles. They aren't the worst of the worst of the worst, but there are better options out there!

[@pollypowell3907]

You are the best..."in the nicest possible way". Not morbid, reality.

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

I don't want to upset anyone 😂 thank you!!

[@zoedonalson9291]

"incredibly lonely"-i feel that, haha. Thank you so much for this value-packed vid. :)

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

We are all in it together in our little community, always here 🥰

[@dogflirt]

Thank you for another piece of great content. Do you offer 1 on 1 phone calls or Skype?

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Our one-to-ones are always online and are run over Google Meet. Nothing to download and simply click a link to join. You just need chrome as a web browser and it's straight on there. 🤓

[@arvestrandsphotography]

An old video but i must say something, proffesional has nothing to do if you are good at something , if you have a business and make an income then thats a proffesion, there are electricians, plumbers about every type of jobs with people that get 100% of the income on it but they suck on the job it is still there proffesion.

[@AdamJonesPhoto]

Home truths , I don't think I'm good enough truth be told. At least I recognise that fact lol

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

It's a shame that you think that, you could surprise yourself with a bit of time spent on it and practice ☺️

[@bnkakl]

good one :-)

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Thanks for the visit!

[@jer3006]

Whew! Well, first off, please relax, I was not annoyed by your very thorough presentation. I did, however, get farther and farther from being a Professional Photographer with every 20 seconds of your video! 😁 But that is okay as I want to be an Unprofessional Photographer. Er, I mean Hobbyist Photographer. 🥴 Having owned a business that failed, then owned a business that succeeded (neither in photography), I just want to say Bravo for all your very astute recommendations for those who wish to be one. "Paying your dues" is a phrase I well understand and is likely used often in your workshops. Several thoughts occurred to me during your presentation. Wouldn't it be horrible, extending your drive-a-car analogy, if you had to take a government test to be a Hobbyist, then an "18-wheeler" test to be a Commercial/Professional Photographer? Yeah! That would separate the iPhones from the Canons! 🤣 And, speaking of phone photography, as great as those in-built tiny cameras are, the lens can make all the difference as you said. Still, I'm sad that the great, long-time camera manufacturers are struggling with the new world order of WECWPOOP (what else can we put on our phones). Yes, you saw that acronym right here for the very first time! 😉 I'm sure your video will be helpful to many people and I do hope they take advantage of your workshops to create a good business foundation. Thanks for sharing this information.

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Thanks for commenting jer, a pleasure to read as always!