Photography in Nigeria is a very lucrative business. People always want to have their pictures taken for memories and posterity. Some just want beautiful pictures to share on their social media apps from time to time. Photographers now make lots of money unlike before.
Having a good digital camera and knowing how to use it does not automatically make you a professional photographer, it just means you can take good pictures.
Though, the photography field is very old as it has been existing for a long period of time, it is almost impossible to find secondary schools or higher institution teaching photography as a subject or course. That should not discourage you as there are so many photography schools in Nigeria you can learn from.
This article will highlight four steps on how to become a professional photographer in Nigeria.
1. Choose a photography niche
To be a professional photographer in Nigeria, you have to specialize in a particular type of photography. There are competitions everyday because of the rising number of photographers in Nigeria. Finding your niche is a good way to start.
There are various niches in photography like wedding photography, children photography, nature photography, and many more. Choosing your niche differentiates you from other numerous photographers and it defines your target market.
You can shoot different pictures, or try out different niches, versatility is good but it is better to be a master of one trade.
2. Have the right photography equipment
No matter the photography skill you have, your equipment hugely determines the outcome of your pictures. As a starter, you can buy the best equipment your money can afford.
As a professional photographer in Nigeria, you will need a good digital camera, Laptop, Camera lens, software for editing, good lighting, external flash, extra batteries, etc.
3. Create an awesome photography portfolio
Having a portfolio is a must. It is something every photographer should invest in. In this 21st Century, having a photography portfolio is no doubt a great asset. It is a great way to showcase the collection of your work.
Gone are the days of manual portfolio, you can do it online by creating a website for your brand that can be easily accessed by your clients on their different electronic gadgets. If you don’t know how to create a portfolio, you can surf the internet. There are more than enough tips there.
4. Have a business plan
Creating a business plan is not as complicated, cumbersome and difficult as many think, it is simply drafting your business intentions after making research until it becomes realistic.
It is very essential to have a workable plan, don’t draft something abstract or unattainable. Your plans will definitely get better over time, as you become more experienced in the business. You begin to learn what is feasible or not in your business.
The first step is usually the most difficult but definitely the most important. If you desire to be a professional photographer you have to put in the work as it is not a piece of cake.
References
InvoiceApp Inc.
Wikipedia
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