How to Start a Photography Business In Virginia

There are a number of steps to start a photography business in the state of Virginia. You must do your own thorough research, as laws change regularly.
Getting started- The state of Virginia provides resources for getting your business started: Virginia Business One Stop

1. Register your new photography business name with the state of Virginia.

Find out more about registering a fictitious name here: Virginia Business Names

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

2. Choose a business structure.

Some examples of business entities you can select are: Sole-proprietor, LLC, Partnership, Corporation, etc. Find out more here: Virginia Business Structure

3. Register your new photography business with Virginia.

You can register your new photography business with the state of Virginia here: Virginia Business Registration

4. Business Checking Account.

Open a new bank account for your photography business with your new business name.

5. Tax Requirements.

Be sure to research local, state, and federal tax guidelines for your particular business. Be sure to research sales tax requirements. More info about taxes here: http://www.tax.virginia.gov/content/business-home and http://www.irs.gov/Businesses/Small-Businesses-&-Self-Employed/Starting-a-Business

6. Liability Insurance.

You may want to consider liability insurance to help in case of a photography-related accident.