Are you passionate about helping people preserve their memories through photos? Do you have a knack for organization and technology? If so, starting a business as a professional photo manager could be the perfect entrepreneurial path for you. Professional photo managers assist individuals and families with organizing, digitizing, and preserving their photo collections, ensuring that important memories are safeguarded for future generations.

 

In a recent webinar hosted by Photomyne, Founder and CEO of The Photo Managers Cathi Nelson and experienced Photo Manager Kimberly Melton, explained what it takes to start a business as a professional photo manager. Read on or watch the video to learn what services you can offer, and how you can join a growing industry dedicated to preserving personal histories.

 

 

Why Start a Business as a Professional Photo Manager?

 

With the rise of digital photography, many people find themselves overwhelmed with thousands of images scattered across devices, cloud services, and old DVDs or CDs. The role of a professional photo manager is to help clients organize and curate their digital or physical photo collections. Not only is this a fulfilling career, but it’s also a rapidly growing niche due to the increasing need for photo organization services.

 

This field is much more than just a profession; it’s about helping people relive memories, preserve their legacy, and bring old photos back to life. By starting your own photo management business, you can make a meaningful impact! Not only will you be helping others, but you’ll also be building a sustainable business.

 

Essential Skills for Professional Photo Managers

 

To start a successful business as a professional photo manager, there are a few key skills and attributes that will help you stand out:

  1. Organizational Skills: A professional photo manager needs to be highly organized, as you’ll be managing large quantities of both digital and physical photos.
  2. Technical Proficiency: While you don’t need to be a tech expert, the desire to learn is essential. You’ll need to be familiar with photo editing software, scanners, and cloud storage solutions to help your clients efficiently store and access their photos.
  3. Attention to Detail: Sorting and categorizing thousands of photos requires patience and precision.
  4. Customer Service Skills: Building rapport with clients and understanding their unique needs is essential for success.
  5. Creativity: You might also be asked to create personalized photo books, slideshows, or videos with music for your clients.

 

Steps to Starting Your Professional Photo Management Business

 

1. Get Trained and Certified

 

While not mandatory, obtaining certification as a professional photo manager can give you a competitive edge. The Photo Managers is the leading trade association in the industry. As a member, you’ll have access to a variety of courses for those interested in photo management. From basic photo organizing techniques to advanced digital photo book creation, these courses will equip you with the skills you need to offer top-notch services.

 

Many new photo managers start by taking the “Photo Manager in Training” (PMIT) program. This allows you to learn the basics before deciding if you want to upgrade to a full membership. If you decide to upgrade later, your initial fees will be credited toward your membership. Many people enjoy this option as a risk-free way to get started.

 

2. Offer a Range of Services

 

There are many services you can offer as a photo manager, depending on your expertise and your clients’ needs:

  • Photo Organization: Help clients sort through digital or physical photos and organize them into easily accessible collections.
  • Photo Scanning and Digitization: Many clients have old photos, CDs, or DVDs that need to be digitized. You can offer scanning services using affordable equipment from retailers like Amazon or B&H Photo.
  • Restoration and Editing: Photo restoration or editing services are often needed, either to improve old photos or to create slideshows and videos.
  • Creating Custom Photo Books: Once photos are organized, photo books are a great way for clients to enjoy them. The creation of personalized photo books, complete with curated photos and captions is a popular service.

 

The flexibility of services you offer allows you to tailor your business to your strengths and the needs of the clients you work with.

 

3. Build Relationships with Other Photo Managers

 

As Cathi Nelson highlights in the webinar, many successful photo managers hire subcontractors to assist them with larger projects. Building relationships within the photo manager community can open doors to collaborative opportunities. Your peers there are also happy to provide support and share their knowledge as you grow your business. You can connect with other professionals through The Photo Managers directory or by attending industry webinars and conferences.

 

4. Invest in Marketing and Networking

 

Starting a business is not just about honing your skills but also about getting the word out to potential clients. To attract clients:

  • Create a Website: Your website should clearly outline your services and include testimonials from happy clients, which will help build trust with potential customers.
  • Utilize Social Media: Share helpful tips on photo organization, digitization, and preservation to build your online presence. Platforms like Instagram and Pinterest are particularly useful for visually-driven industries like photo management.
  • Leverage Local Networking: You can also use local directories and community boards to advertise your services to clients in your area.

 

5. Understand the Business Side

 

Becoming a professional photo manager means running your own independent business. This is not a franchise, and there are no commissions or sales quotas involved. You are responsible for setting your own rates, managing your business finances, and building long-term relationships with your clients.

 

Fortunately, The Photo Managers offers resources and guidance to help you navigate the business side of things, including spreadsheets to track your finances and other tools to ensure your success.

 

Starting a Business as a Professional Photo Manager

 

Starting a business as a professional photo manager can be both fulfilling and profitable. Not only do you get to help people preserve their most precious memories, but you also have the freedom to run your own business and make meaningful connections with your clients.

 

If you’re ready to take the first step, consider joining The Photo Managers, where you can connect with other professionals, access training, and learn how to build a sustainable business. Whether you’re looking to do this part-time or full-time, the opportunities are endless in this growing industry.

 

To learn more about turning your love of photos into a business, watch the full video on YouTube.