Tara Thackeray Photography

 Hello friends,  I wanted to hop on and answer a question I get all the time... How do you start a photography business?  Yep, I know it's kind of a broad question but believe me I get tons of emails, Facebook messages, and Instagram DMs with people flat out asking for me to help them get started.  I don't mind, really I'm happy to help but if I really truly shared every bit of information with every single person who reached out it would take me hours and hours to put it all together and I would be giving away everything I have done/learned. That is coaching or mentoring and if you are looking for a business coach I know some amazing ones and I'd be happy to connect you or if you'd like to hire me as your photography business coach, I'd be happy to work with you. It's so much more than taking pretty photos or setting up cute backdrops and props. If you don't have a good understanding of how to run a business it can be incredibly challenging.  I have do

Here's a fun topic for the day: Exposure as a form of payment.....  This is a tricky subject but I think it's worth discussing. I often get approached for different collaboration opportunities that involve trading for my time, talent, and creative images and I must respectfully decline .  They typically are from very sweet people with good intentions and the requests often look like this:  "Hey Tara,  "Would you be interested in partnering with my company. We are in need of professional photos for our office staff as well as some upcoming events. We are looking for someone to come in and take the photos for FREE and in return, we will promote your business to our clients via our newsletter, social media and signage at our events."  ~Jane Doe  Director of marketing BIG Huge Company There are several reasons why I typically say no to non-paying photo gigs: 1. I have 3 kids. - Sure, I can find child care and I love doing fun photoshoots but let's be honest I am