Starting a Photography Business and So Is a Friend...

I am just beginning to start a photography business and have just learned that someone I know is doing the same thing. We share mutual friends, but aren't close to each other. My concern is that we live in a very small community and I don't want to seem like I am stepping on anyone's toes or trying to take business away from her. Does anyone have any suggestions on how I can handle this situation. I don't think that she knows I am doing the same thing that she is trying to do. I would like us to be able to give each other referrals and work together!

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B.C. answers from San Francisco on August 16, 2008

I had the same thing happen to me only instead of it being a small town it was more like the same mom's groups and community. We ended up having a talk about it and realized that each of us had our own style and folks will go with who they link. I am a member of a large community of moms as part of an only moms group. we have 3 photographers in the same group and as much as their is competition it comes down to people's tastes.

Having been in the same situation i can offer further advice if you are interested

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M.S. answers from San Francisco on August 04, 2008

A.,

I don't think there is such a thing as too many photographers- even if it is a small town. Every one brings their own strengths and most likely you won't have the same gifts. Give her a call and let her know you have joined the biz and would love to work together with her.

Good luck!

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E.V. answers from San Francisco on August 04, 2008

give her a call and tell say exactly what you said to us. chances are you are both different with your style of photography so you will reach different people. good luck.

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J.H. answers from San Francisco on August 04, 2008

Congrats on deciding to start your own business. That is great! Well, there are so many types of photographers out there - children's, commercial, sports, special events, etc. I'd definitely give this friend a call to see how you can help each other. I am in the special events business and I notice my photographers refer each other. You can only be in one place at one time so if one receives a request for a wedding on a day they are already booked, they refer the other person. Depending upon what type of photography you are doing, I notice some of mine work with an assistant. If one photographer is booked on a certain date and the other is not, they will help each other out. Basically they barter. If it's a wedding, typically the bride will want to be photographed getting ready as will the groom - again, you can't be in two places at once. By the way, your local SBA usually offers great classes on starting a new business, marketing oneself, etc for free or low cost. Best of luck with your new business. So exciting!!