How to Start a Photography Business In North Carolina

How to Start a Photography Business In North Carolina

Whether you are planning a full or part-time business, there are a number of steps to take to start a photography business in North Carolina.   You will want to start with planning your business.  Writing out a business plan will help get you organized and will help in setting goals. Next, you will need to register your photography business.  You can find the steps to registration below.  Lastly, you will need to take the proper actions to market your new photography business effectively in order to attract customers.

How to Register Your Photography Business in North Carolina

Getting started– The state of North Carolina has a website about starting a business in North Carolina here: http://www.blnc.gov/start-your-business

1. Select a business structure.

Sole-proprietor, LLC, Partnership, Corporation, etc.  Find out more here: http://www.blnc.gov/start-your-business/selecting-a-business-structure

2. Register your photography business name.

Find out more about registering a business name here: http://www.blnc.gov/start-your-business/business-forms

If you need help choosing a business name: How To Choose A Photography Business Name

3.  Register your photography business with the state of North Carolina.

You can register your business with the state of North Carolina here: http://www.dornc.com/electronic/registration/

4. Open a Business Checking Account with your Bank.

You will need to open a separate bank account for your business with your new photography business name.

5. Find out about taxes and hire an accountant.

More info about taxes here: http://www.dornc.com/ and http://www.irs.gov/Businesses/Small-Businesses-&-Self-Employed/Starting-a-Business

When doing your research on taxes, make sure to find North Carolina’s requirements for collecting sales tax from customers.

6.  Get Liability Insurance.

Find an insurance agent that offers liability insurance.  You may want to shop around, as prices and options can vary.  Liability insurance will help protect you in case of a work-related accident or injury.

7. Get Health Insurance.

Since you will be self-employed, you will need your own health insurance.  If you have employees, you will need a plan that will include their health needs also.

8. Find out if you need a City License.

You may be required to obtain a license to do business in a particular locale, whether you are a resident, or not.

9. Research the need for Permits.

Some public places require photographers to obtain permits before performing photo shoots in those locations.

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