Photographer-Videographer Launch Guide

Start your photography or videography business in Canada the right way. A 26-page printable and fill-able guide and workbook covering copyright, pricing, contracts, drones and more.

READY TO GO PRO?

You know how to create beautiful images. The business side is harder: who owns the photos, what to charge, GST/HST, insurance, model releases, drone rules and music licensing. This guide walks you through the Canadian basics in plain language, in the order most new photographers and videographers need them.

WHAT'S INSIDE (11 SECTIONS):

*Your business foundation: choosing your services, ideal client, business structure and business name

*Legal and money setup: income tax, GST/HST, bookkeeping, insurance (including equipment) and licences

*Gear, backups and file storage: what to buy first, the 3-2-1 backup rule, gear inventory, travelling with gear

*Who owns the photos and video: Canadian copyright, usage licences, second shooters, protecting your work online

*Consent, releases and privacy: model and property releases, minors, Quebec image rights, newborn safety

*Video essentials: music licensing, Transport Canada drone rules, venue rules

*Pricing and packages: an hourly rate formula, three-package framework, travel and overtime fees

*The client journey and contracts: 9 stages from inquiry to review, delivery timelines, what your contract should cover

*Finding your first clients: building a portfolio, Instagram, Pinterest, Google Business Profile and referral partners

*Compliance corner: anti-spam rules (CASL), honest advertising, and French-language rules for Quebec clients

*Your 90-day launch plan: a week-by-week action plan

- PLUS -

*6 fill-in worksheets: business snapshot, startup and gear costs, pricing calculator, client journey map, *30-day client attraction plan, shoot day checklist

*A gear inventory list for insurance and travel

*"Canadian note" boxes that flag rules specific to Canada

*A glossary and a list of official Canadian resources

PERFECT FOR:

*New photographers and videographers in Canada

*Portrait, family, wedding, event, brand and real estate photographers

*Hobbyists ready to start charging, and side hustles going full time

WHAT YOU GET:

*1 Fillable PDF: type straight into the worksheets and tick off checklists on screen, or print it.

(26 pages, US Letter size (8.5 x 11 in))

*Print the worksheets, or type on them in a PDF app that lets you add text

*Instant download, nothing is shipped

HOW IT WORKS:

*Purchase and download your PDF

*Read one section at a time and complete the worksheet at the end.

*Use the 90-day plan to turn everything into action.

GOOD TO KNOW:

*This guide is general information for Canada. It is not legal, tax, insurance or accounting advice. Rules differ by province and territory and change over time, so check your provincial guidelines and confirm important decisions with a professional.

*For your own business use only. Please do not copy, resell or share the file.

*Because this is a digital download, [refunds are not available, but message me if something isn't working and I'll help].

STAY ON TOP OF YOUR TAXES

Pair it with the Canadian Self-Employed Money Tracker in my shop to log income and expenses and know how much to set aside for tax.

Ready to turn your camera into a business? Add the guide to your cart and start your 90-day plan today!