[VBW]

I am going to start dabbling in newborn photography. My first two "customers" will likely be friends who I will not charge any money- just have them sign a model contract.

When do you think I should get insurance? Right away because I'm working with newborns or wait till I start having paying customers?

If you have photo biz insurance when did you get it and why? If you don't mind sharing- how much is it a year?

[disconnekt]

If you're starting a business get insurance as soon as you can (money permitting), as long as you have the right insurance for what you're doing.

I am going to start dabbling in newborn photography. My first two "customers" will likely be friends who I will not charge any money- just have them sign a model contract.

When do you think I should get insurance? Right away because I'm working with newborns or wait till I start having paying customers?

If you have photo biz insurance when did you get it and why? If you don't mind sharing- how much is it a year?

• You can't be partly pregnant, they are customers or friends, pick one.
• If friends, just take the pictures. You've the same liability as if you were over for dinner and spilled wine on the rug or tripped over the dog.

• If customers, get a State Business License & Tax ID, Local Privilege Permit if required and a Business Liability Policy. I used to use the PPA policy but switched to State Farm with an Inland Marine Rider for my gear. They cover my house & cars, so with the discount, about $320 a year based on 10K of equipment coverage. I'd recommend a Fed Tax ID & Biz Checking account. Then quote them a price for the session & prints. Plan on filing State Sales Tax Returns and at least a Fed Schedule C. Keep track of your mileage and expenses.

• I only get Model Releases signed for my occasional commercial customer and grant the customer usage rights. Dentist office staff & patients, local leather goods mfr are examples.
• Most of my work is retail portraiture, by referral. I ask permission to display some on my blog and website. Just keep the e-Mail responses and if anyone changes their mind, take it down. .
• Occasionally, I shoot for a local publication. That's editorial use, doesn't require a release.

That's the short, not local to you, non-lawyer answer. Nothing wrong with being a hobbyist or amateur, I've friends who create incredible work. If you're going to do it, make it a business, then do it, realistically, by being realistic about your expenses and time and charge realistic prices. Invest the time to learn about your state and local laws.