Do You Want to Become a Photographer?

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused many people worldwide to lose their jobs, and Nepal has also faced severe impacts. Approximately 5 million Nepalis working abroad have been affected. Statistics show that among the youth going for foreign employment, 74% are unskilled, 24% are semi-skilled, and only 2% are skilled.

Today, I want to introduce you to self-employment opportunities in the highly demanded photography profession within Nepal. You can enter this field by taking a few months of skill-based classes at a minimal cost.

Self-Employment Opportunities in Photography

Explore the opportunities in studio photography and frame industries in Nepal, and guide new aspiring young men and women interested in this profession. Currently, due to the lack of jobs, many are not finding satisfaction. Political instability and reliance on foreign employment make it difficult to find work in Nepal. Members of middle and upper-class families often go abroad for studies and work there. Thus, self-employment in simple businesses like studio photography can be a good option for competing in the market.

Where Can You Find Employment in Photography and Studio Photography?

Currently, historical and religious sites attract large crowds. While visiting these places, people often take photos with their mobile phones, but not everyone has a good mobile camera. At such locations, people are happy to have their photos taken immediately and preserved as neat memories. Those running photo studio services at places like Manakamana, Dakshinkali Temple, and Chandragiri are earning well.

For example, Yamuna Bohara, who runs Satya Sai Digital Studio in Dharapani, Dang District, earns between NPR 50,000 to 100,000 per month. She also provides wedding photo and video services. Another photographer running a photo studio at Chandragiri and Pashupatinath earns over NPR 100,000 per month.

How Much Does It Cost to Start a Photography Business?

Here is a list of the necessary materials and costs to start a photography business:

• 1. Studio Space: At least an 8/10 ft. shutter and studio space.
• 2. Camera: Costs around NPR 35,000 or more.
• 3. Computer: Costs range from NPR 30,000 to NPR 250,000.
• 4. Printer: A 6-color printer capable of printing 8/12 size photos, costing NPR 30,000.
• 5. Digital Flash Light Set: NPR 15,000.
• 6. Flash: Costs between NPR 5,000 to 25,000.
• 7. Scanner: NPR 5,000.
• 8. Studio Curtains and Accessories: Estimated cost of NPR 25,000.
• 9. Local Body Registration and PAN Number Fees: Between NPR 2,000 to 3,000.

Where to Take Photography Classes?

You can take classes at any reputable photography institute or train at a nearby experienced photographer's studio. You can contact Bhojraj Jyu, the operator of Om Digital Studio near Baneshwar. We also occasionally provide free photography training; feel free to contact us for more information.

By taking training, gradually correcting mistakes, watching YouTube tutorials, and learning from other online classes of photographers, you can start earning and improving your skills. You can fulfill your dream of becoming a professional photographer by taking excellent photos.

Conclusion

This article is already long, so I'll stop here today. You can contact me directly if you need more information. Any profession requires quality, but the top priority is customer satisfaction and the service provided to them. In the next article, I will provide more information about the frame industry. To be continued...