Start a Videography Business

People think they need cinema gear; businesses mostly need consistent, decent video delivered on time.

1. 1

   Pick one video lane

   Weddings, local business content, or events. Each has different gear, pricing, and clients, and 'I film everything' wins none of them.

2. 2

   Buy a lean starter kit

   A used mirrorless body (Sony a6400 class), a Rode shotgun mic, a tripod, and two LED panels covers 90 percent of paid work. Stay under $2,000 buying used.

3. 3

   Film two free portfolio pieces

   Shoot for two real local businesses in your lane in exchange for a testimonial and full usage rights. These become your proof.

4. 4

   Price by project, not hourly

   Quote a package that covers shoot, edit, and one revision round, for example $750 to $1,500 for a brand video. Hourly pricing punishes you for getting faster.

5. 5

   Set up contracts and deposits

   Use a simple agreement covering usage rights, revision limits, and a 50 percent deposit before you book anything. One template protects every job.

6. 6

   Pitch 20 local businesses

   Send your portfolio link with one specific video idea for their business. Offer a monthly retainer of four short videos so income repeats instead of resetting.

7. 7

   Move winners onto retainers

   After the first project, pitch a monthly content package. Two or three retainers at $1,000 to $2,500 turn this from gigs into a business.