Is there a photo editing program that contains templates, frames, filters, etc. that I could use to enhance my own photos before I sell them. I have Microsoft Digital imaging suite, but it retains all of its copy rights.

Thanks for your help.
Christy in Maryland

http://www.cyberdriveillinois.com/departments/business_services/publications_and_forms/llc.html

Not really sure why your accountant advised against protecting yourself from lawsuit. You might want to find someone who specializes in our field.

It is apparent from the other responses that the decision varies from state to state.

I live in the East and my state is a little more pro business than California. My yearly cost for my LLC is $100.00. There is hardly any paperwork associated with the LLC. However, I do have personal property tax to pay and a gross receipts tax payable to my county but that would apply to an S, LLC or sole prop.

Each state is different. Just because California is difficult does not mean that it is not worth pursuing. Putting 52K away a year for retirement sure beats less than 20K in a SEP.

If you give a client a big discount in a bad economy or for any other reason they are highly unlikely to offer you an equal increase in your fees once the economy gets back on track. There has to be give and take, fair compromises must be made during tough times. Communication between photographer and client is key but somehow we don’t seem to have that kind of communication between photographers resulting in ridiculous underbidding.

For example, California literally despises LLC and makes you pay for it through extravagant taxes and paperwork.

A few years ago, the operating tax alone was over $1,000. To me that’s a new shiny toy. Can’t imagine what it is now with all of the tax hikes in California. I’m sure this isn’t the only state who won’t recognize LLCs too.

Why were you advised against LLC?

Also, young guys and gals, start contributing to your retirement accounts now. Every penny that you can even if is just a ROTH account. Time is your greatest ally when planning for the future. If you want to go low cost look at the Vanguard funds.

Hey Paul! funny seeing you here lol..
(I’m an ASMP SE member in ATL, I doubt you know me lol)

Great to see these kinds of real world numbers… but hard for someone like me (one who has yet to do any significant business) to relate.

I think the first guy has tight control on his expenses and also part of his expenses could be dividends paid. The net is nice number but is it after taxes?

I look at photog #4 and all I see is someone that needs to have more control since he is not sure he will be able to deduct certain expenses. A relationship with a good accountant is important. Then again if business owner uses a program like quick books why wouldn’t the deductions be there? Also photog #4 may be able to make more with a studio. I am just guessing at this point, I would think that at least where there is a coop studio available it might be something to consider, and for all I know he may be doing just that and it may be time to find his own. JMHO.

I say all this after attending the California Pro Photo Expo meeting and seeing a small smattering of the competition. I think there is a lot of business out there that can be won by exceptional craftsmanship, and great marketing. My weak point is marketing, I am fortunate though to have someone that is great at marketing, and I can learn to be better at it.

Just thinking more or less the exact same thing. I guess it drives the hits. Or maybe it’s the Cosmo/Men’s Health model – sex positions your partner will enjoy/how to lose weight in 30 days.

Coming next week: 1 more anonymous photographer tells us his income 4 years ago! Quick, everyone discuss the changes in between.

With out knowing the market they are in, that could be cheap! Primary, secondary, and tertiary markets all have different Costs of living. Add to that, 1 primary market can be different from another.

Just look at what square footage costs in Manhattan compared to LA.

And, we don’t know the size or experience of the staff being shared, nor the number of photogs splitting the bill.

Photographer business advice– Get a good accountant. A good one is not someone who only gives you good news!!!