How to Start A Legal Photography Business
Most photographers have already been in business for awhile, but they more than likely have not been operating legally. I made a quick list of the simple things you can start looking into today, to start your legal photography business.
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*I am not a lawyer. I can not and will not give you legal advice. This is my personal opinion and experience on how to make your photography business legal. Also I am in Illinois.*
The first thing you need to do is find an accountant! If you already have someone that takes care of your personal taxes, talk to them. Please do NOT rely on what others tell you in Facebook groups, or people you don’t know because it is different in every state. The best person to talk to about any of this is your accountant. They will know how to advise you and will know the rules in your state.
I can not speak for every state (but I’m sure it’s not too different), YES you are supposed to be claiming every cent you make even if you have not filed to become an LLC. Even if it’s just a side hustle. Yes, I know there is this popular myth that you only have to claim if you made so much in a year. That is not true. Every single cent needs to be claimed.
First, make a list of EVERYTHING you use for photography business so you can show it to your accountant.
Camera (what it is worth)
Editing programs
Car/gas
Home office
Internet
All gear
Accountant! Yes, you can claim their services!
It is better to be prepared before going in. When you call them to set up an appointment, they will also advise you on everything they will want to have from you.
Get the free Photography Tax Write Off Checklist!
LLC, Sole Prop?
Your accountant will be able to advise you on what legal entity you should file for based on all of the information you provide them (Sole prop, LLC, etc).
Contract
Have a Lawyer draw up a contract for you. If you already have a contract, have the lawyer go over it. If you don’t have a contract, you can get one here. Edit it to fit your business needs and then have your lawyer go over it.
Register Your Business Name
This process may have changed since I did this, but I went to my county courthouse and filed. I think it was around $50. Again, that may have changed since then. If you are in Illinois, you can get all the small business information right here.
Open A Business Checking Account
You WILL need an EIN number to open a business checking account. You can get that here if you are in the U.S.
Insurance
Depending on what you can afford, most photographers will tell you to register with PPA. However, you can most definitely call your home/auto insurance agent and discuss coverage with them.
Keeping Records
You NEED to have a good record keeping system. Staying organized throughout the year will not only benefit you, but will make your accountant so much happier when all of your tax preparation is in perfect order! Check out these tax spreadsheets for photographers.
Related Articles:
How to Price Your Photography for Beginners
5 Tips to go From a Hobby Photographer to a Paid Photographer
Don’t Let This Happen to you Without a Photography Contract
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