It’s time to put down our cameras. Step away from photography forums. Press pause on software tutorials. We need to exercise another part of our minds – our business acumen.
In order to build successful and sustainable businesses, we must venture beyond f-stops, shutter speeds and gadget gossip. Of course, those are important pieces of the photographic puzzle. They’re just not enough to carry our studios through lulls in bookings, losses of key staff or unexpected economic hardships. To ride out those storms, you need to fill your mental fuel tank with wisdom from proven business resources.
To kickstart strategic thinking, here are are three business publications every photographer should read.
1. Fast Company – it’s not just an airport newsstand standard. Although they have a printed magazine, the team behind Fast Company claims to have the most affluent and influential readership in the business category of publishing. As the world’s leading progressive business media brand, Fast Company is written by and about the most progressive business leaders. Their articles inspire readers to think beyond traditional boundaries and create the future of business. For example, their article about the rise of visual social media pertains to photographers both personally and professionally. The team also creates a practical podcast, 30 Second MBA, an online classroom offering a wealth of advice from successful business leaders. The site features professionals who answer business and leadership questions in 30 seconds.
2. Wise Bread – this is perhaps the best collection of writers, business owners and entrepreneurs who specialize in saving money, cutting costs, and budgeting wisely. Every small business owner, regardless of their industry, should be reading this blog weekly. The articles range from funny to pragmatic, always offering smart tips managing business finances, and doing big things on a small budget! Whether you need help hiring your first employee or finding an accountant, Wise Bread has tips and tricks that will save your sanity!
3. LinkedIn Today – if you thought this social network for business was all about online connections, you’re missing out on a key benefit of membership! LinkedIn Today actually does some serious search work for you, saving you time when you’re looking for business articles that relate to your struggles. When you visit LinkedIn Today, you’ll discover articles curated for you based on your professional profile and your personal connections. Instead of spending endless hours searching, you can simply visit LinkedIn Today to immediately access articles that fit the photo industry. It’s a solid source of entrepreneurship and business news all in one, easy-to-access place.
Are there other business blogs or printed publications you read regularly? Please share your favorites in the comments section below.