The photography industry in Kenya offers many opportunities for photography enthusiasts who want to make a living out of it. If you are an amateur photographer or Pro thinking of taking your photography passion to the next level, here are quick tips to succeed in this lucrative business.

You Cannot Do Everything: So Define Your Niche.

Have you ever noticed that professionals like Doctors and Lawyers always opt for a speciality? They do this because they know they cannot be experts at everything. Photography is a very demanding profession requiring focus, skill and knowledge; therefore, choosing a focus area of focus will help you serve your clients better. Determine the type of photography you want to specialise in; weddings, portraits, fashion, landscapes, or product photography. Focusing on a specific niche will help you target your marketing efforts and establish your expertise.

Kenya is also a beautiful country, full of different photography opportunities…making it easy to choose a specialization.

Invest in quality and the right equipment: You cannot be a master of your craft without the proper tools.

Think about what camera and lenses would be most suitable for your area of specialization. Purchase reliable camera gear, lenses, lighting equipment, and editing software that meet the needs of your chosen photography niche from a reliable camera shop. Quality equipment will contribute to your work’s professional look and enhance your ability to deliver high-quality photographs to your clients.

Build an attractive portfolio: Seeing is Believing

Many prospective clients will want to see proof of your work to be sure they will get their money’s worth.  Create an impressive portfolio showcasing your best work. Include a variety of images that demonstrate your skills and style. If you have not done enough work or projects to create a really attractive portfolio, you can start by doing free or discounted shoots for friends, family, and around your area of specialisation.

Market your Photography Business

“Doing business without advertising is like winking at a girl in the dark. You know what you are doing, but nobody else does.” – Steuart Henderson Britt.

It is hard to succeed in the photography business in Kenya without proper marketing. Thankfully, modern technology has made it easier to market.  Set up a professional website and create social media accounts for your photography business. Use these platforms to showcase your portfolio, share behind-the-scenes content, engage with your audience, and attract potential clients. Consider using platforms like Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok, which are very popular with Kenyans.

Network and collaborate

Be on the look for various photography events happening across Kenya. Attend photography events, workshops, and industry gatherings to connect with other photographers, potential clients, and vendors in your niche. Building a strong network can lead to referrals and collaborative opportunities, helping you expand your client base and gain exposure.