CHAPTER 1
Your Values, Your
Business
Building a business based on your values is one of the
most important responsibilities that you have as a freelance
photographer. It is also a tremendous opportunity.
Being awake to ideals that you hold as “true” creates a state
of consciousness that will positively affect every aspect of your
business.
As you develop a body of work from a state of true aware-
ness of your talent and market needs, you will be able to create
online and print portfolios that clearly represent your visual
value to buyers.
Your principles will also serve you well as you create your
service goals. Making conscious choices about how you will
meet deadlines, entertain clients, and follow up jobs will guar-
antee your clients a positive experience.
Business and licensing practices developed around your
standards can be clearly and kindly communicated to clients as
needed.
While most photographers do have values that define their
company, few take the time to proactively examine, define, and
build their businesses around them. Have you built your busi-
ness with your principles in mind? Do they guide your daily
decisions? Are your business goals in sync with your family and
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