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    amay1285's Avatar
    amay1285 Posts: 3, Reputation: 1
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    #1

    Feb 15, 2009, 10:32 PM
    Do I need a license for my photography?
    Hey there... I live in WA state and I've done photography for myself as a hobby for a while. Recently I've done some work for friends and other individuals are now interested in my work. I am planning on doing some photography for anyone who is interested and charging them. I was wondering if I need a license to do this? Or if there are any other things I should worry about. Its not something I plan on doing full time... just on the side. Thanks.
    jcdill's Avatar
    jcdill Posts: 249, Reputation: 24
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    #2

    Feb 15, 2009, 11:06 PM
    Quote Originally Posted by amay1285 View Post
    Hey there...I live in WA state and ive done photography for myself as a hobby for a while. Recently ive done some work for friends and other individuals are now interested in my work. I am planning on doing some photography for anyone who is interested and charging them. I was wondering if I need a license to do this? or if there are any other things I should worry about. Its not something I plan on doing full time...just on the side. Thanks.
    You may need a business license - it depends on your exact location (city, county) in WA state. You will have to ask at your city or county clerk's office.

    I don't know the details of WA's sales tax law, but you may need to pay sales tax on services and photos and need to get a resale license to collect the tax from customers, then file and pay it to the state. For WA see: Retail sales tax

    You will need to file a schedule C to account for your photography income. On the flip side, you can deduct your costs including mileage (currently this is $0.55 per mile) to/from photo stores to buy supplies, to/from meetings with clients and shoots, and of course your photo supplies and equipment. If you work it right, as a part-time photographer often your income will be pretty much offset by expenses so you don't have to pay income tax on the money you earn from your photography.
    Jetranger's Avatar
    Jetranger Posts: 8, Reputation: 1
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    #3

    Mar 31, 2009, 03:18 PM

    I would speak to an accountant you trust. They can assist you in whether it would be worth incorporating. There are pros and cons. A corporation will give you better write-offs, and limits your personal liability (which in this profession and age of the internet are very serious considerations).

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