How to Start a Wedding Photography Business In Texas
Check out this e-book for more information on how to start a wedding photography business: A Rookie Wedding Photographer’s Survival Guide. Below you will find information on how to register your new wedding photography business in the state of Texas.
How To Register Your Wedding Photography Business In Texas
Getting Started- Official state website for starting a business in Texas: https://texaswideopenforbusiness.com/start-business
1. Choose a structure for your wedding photography business.
The most common business structure for a small business is sole-proprietor. If you are worried about liability, you may want to consider an LLC. Find out more here: http://www.sos.state.tx.us/corp/businessstructure.shtml
2. Register your wedding photography business name.
Make sure the name you choose isn’t already being used by someone else. You can always use your own name, but if you think you might sell your business down the road, using your own name may not be best. Find out more about registering a fictitious name here: http://www.sos.state.tx.us/corp/forms_boc.shtml
If you need help choosing a wedding photography business name: How To Choose A Photography Business Name
3. Register your wedding photography business.
Your wedding photography business can be registered with the state of Texas here: http://www.sos.state.tx.us/corp/forms_boc.shtml
4. Open a business account at your bank.
Open a new business account for your new wedding photography business with your new business name.
5. Research taxes.
Unless you decide to use your Social Security number, you will need to register for an EIN (Employee Identification Number) for tax purposes. More information about taxes here: http://www.window.state.tx.us/taxes/ and http://www.irs.gov/Businesses/Small-Businesses-&-Self-Employed/Starting-a-Business .
Don’t forget about sales tax requirements: http://comptroller.texas.gov/taxinfo/taxpubs/tx94_176.pdf
6. Research Liability Insurance.
Some form of liability insurance for your wedding photography business is important to protect you in case of any damage, accidents or injuries caused by you or your photography equipment.
7. City License and/or permit.
You may need to get a local license to operate your photography business. You may also need a permit to take professional photographs in certain locations.