Pam Baker Photography: A Feasibility Study of A Home-Based Photography Business

PAM BAKER PHOTOGRAPHY:
A FEASIBILITY STUDY OF A
HOME-BASED
PHOTOGRAPHY BUSINESS
Prepared by :
Pamela Baker Dutton
April 24,2002
This paper is submitted in satisfaction of the requirements in MBA 599,

Independent Research, for the Graduate Program in Business at Mount Saint
Marys College.
Table of Contents
I.
Introduction
II.
Objective
III.
Desired Lifestyle
IV.
Research Approach
V.
Research Activities
10
VI.
Research
13
VII.
Conclusion
40
vm
Business Plan
44
Ix.
Validation
48
Appendices
Appendix A
Photographers Interview Questions
Appendix B
Interview with Steven Theis
Appendix C
Interview with Emily Sinclair
Appendix D
Interview with John Kim Muchesko
12
Appendix E
Interview with Katrina Kilgallon
16
Appendix F
Interviews with businesses
20
Appendix G
Interviews with former and titure brides
25
Appendix H
Interview with Mark Walls - Frederick County Zoning
38
Appendix I
Interview with Tiiothy Davis- City of Frederick Zoning
51
Appendix J
Interview with Brian Kennedy of Verizon Yell&w Pages
57
Appendix K
Web page information for Frederick.Com and Yahoo
60
Appendix L
Interviews with Cynthia Baker and Michael Himmel
63
Appendix M Interviews concerning state licensing
66
Appendix N
Interview with Chamber of Commerce
68
Appendix 0
Professional Photographers Association information
69
Appendix P
Notes from working at two bridal shows
76
I.
Introduction
I grew up in a home that always had some form of home-based business being
run out of it. So the idea of one day having my own home-based business has
crossed my mind more than occasionally. As early as I can remember, I have
enjoyed photography. The fact that photography freezes moments or captures
feelings is why I find it appealing.
In middle school my brother and I joined the photography club and had the
privilege of having local photographer Harriet Wise as our teacher. She taught
us how to use a 35mm single-lens reflex camera, the components of light, and
basic darkroom skills for black and white photography. Later, I found myself
drawn back to the darkroom and working on my high school yearbook,
eventually becoming the assistant editor.
When my son was born I found myself constantly looking for a new source to
use as a backdrop for taking his picture. At this point I was also utilizing a
digital camera, which provides instant results on an LCD screen. Instant
results can be addictive. The downside, I quickly found, was that getting the
pictures printed on archival quality paper can be more costly per print than the
traditional 35mm prints I have become so accustomed to.
For my research project I choose to research the feasibility of starting my own

home-based photography business. I realize that if1 were to pursue
photography as a home-based business, I should take some courses in
photography. The idea of having my own business and doing something that
interests me and that I get enjoyment from is extremely appealing.
I am currently employed full time in a career that I enjoy, therefore looking

into a home-based business is not because I am looking to change my career,
but more because I desire to broaden my world. I am not the type of person
that likes idle time either and I actually prefer to have a part-time job in
addition to my ti.dl-time job, which I have done twice before I started graduate
courses.
I believe that I have the educational and practical background for operating a
home-based business. I have a Bachelors in Business Administration in
Accounting from Loyola College, Maryland, and I have practical experience
5~
having grown up in a home where a business was operated
Deriving an additional soume of income is part of the reason I would want to

start a home-based photography business, but doing something that I could
enjoy with the flexibility of choosing my own schedule is also a major factor
Additionally, my ti&time job requires a lengthy and tiresome commute. I
foresee me taking advantage of the earliest possible retirement date, so having
a home-based business already established before that time arrives, I see as a
possible long range plan
With all of this in mind, the goal of my research is to look at the feasibility of
starting a home-based photography business and to find out what I would need
to set up such a business. I have chosen to look at Frederick, Maryland, as a
potential area to target such a business.
II.
Objective
My objective is to determine if1 should start a home-based photography

business and to develop a potential business plan for it. I am looking for a
home-based business that could be a part-time job and that would offer
flexibility in deciding my own schedule.
Through research and interviews, my goal to learn what would be required to

start a home-based photography business, what to expect, and how to develop
such a business.
III.
Desired Lifestyle
The lifestyle that would accompany working from your home is different than
that of leaving the house and working for someone else. I know this firsthand
since my father was self employed as a farmer and my mother worked for him
as his bookkeeper and Gal Friday? I know that being self-employed can
mean the phone may ring when you have just sat down to eat dinner with your
family, and that it may includes a financial risk as well. Being self-employed
means that you sponsor your own health care, life insurance and retirement
plans. It also means there is no such thing as calling in sick. But most of all, it
means there is no steady paycheck to count on. There are be peaks and valleys
in the cash flow.
I am fortunate enough to enjoy the career that I am currently employed in. I

work full time and receive full benefits, one of which is a retirement plan.
Since my job is auditing pension plans, I know how important good retirement
planning is. I am also in the midst of a divorce, so I am the bread winner for
my household with a mortgage to support, and I am the primary financial
provider for the well-being of my son. Financial stability is very important to
me. I have to think about saving for college and braces and all the other
financial responsibilities that come with a child. It is something that constantly
weighs heavily on my mind. I know that many people support their families
through full-time self-employment, and I have the highest respect and
admiration for them, but in my life right now I need the consistency and
stability of a steady full-time paycheck and benefits.
I do foresee in my future a part-time job that would fit into being a mom. The
best thing that has ever happened to me in my life was becoming a mom, so I
plan to greet being a little league mom and a den mother with great
enthusiasm. One lesson that I learned from my parents- is that you only get to
raise a child once; there is no second chance to see that sofiball or volleyball
game, and that scouting ceremony only happens once. I plan to be there for
my child in every way, no exceptions. So a part-time job for me would need

flexibility in scheduling.
Since I plan to keep a full-time job until retirement, the potential income is not
as important to me as the personal satisfaction I would have from starting my
own home-based business and doing something that I enjoy. Bringing joy to
other people is something else I enjoy and I believe that photography does that.
As far as the financial aspects of a home-based photography business go, I
would expect the business to be able to show a modest net income for working
part time.
Iv.
Research Approach
The research approach I have chosen has three parts: literature review,
interviews and actual individual experience. For the literature review portion I
will research literature written on the topic of starting a home-based
photography business. I am fortunate that books have been written on this
specific topic. Through conducting research of available literature, it is my
intent is to learn what would be necessary to start such a business, I would
also like to learn what types of photography are specialized in by home-based

photographers and to learn general expectations. ~By reviewing literature
specifically pertaining to home-based photography businesses I hope to gain
perspective on issues that are directly relevant to this business.
The interview portion of my research will include interviews with home-based

photographers; interviews with retail businesses in order to discover their
photography needs relative to potential market opportunities; surveys and
interviews with brides; and interviews with county offices for requirements for
a home-based business and advertising rates for the yellow pages and web page
rates.
I planned to interview at least six home-based business photographers to learn

realistic aspects pertaining to both photography and running a home-based
business. My intent was to interview photographers in dierent cities through
out the Mid-Atlantic east coast region There are two reasons for this
approach. Fist, my brother is a home-based photographer in the Frederick
and Baltimore area. I do not personally feel comfortable interviewing people
about their livelihood knowing that my brother is possibly competing within
The third portion of my interviewing will be to retail photography clients. The

most classic example of such is a bride. Wedding photography is the most
commonly known type of retail photography. I plan to interview perspective
brides and former brides to tind out what they are looking for when hiring a
photographer.
Local zoning laws are important to a home-based business. I will contact the
local county offices to find out what zoning laws will allow for a home-based
photography business and what kind of permits would be needed.
I believe that getting your name out there is an important part of doing
business, so with that in mind I will contact a local web site provider and find
out what services are available and the cost. I also know that when I am
looking for a business the first place I look is the Yellow Pages, so I will
contact them for advertising and listing information and rates.
Small businesses often need financing to get started. I will contact two local
banks to determine what is available for a small business loan. I will find out
what types of information they would need for to review such a loan.
Contacting the Chamber of Commerce is the fist thing most people

recommended to me about researching a small business. I will contact the
Chamber of Commerce in Frederick to find out how they could be supportive
of a small home-based business. I would also ask the cost to join and what
types of activities they have.
Personal experience is often the best way to learn about something. I will
work one weekend at a Bridal Show for my brothers home-based
photography business.
V.
Research Activities
A.
Reviewed the following literature for information:

Oberrecht, Ken(2000). How to Start a Home-Based
Photoaranhv Business. (3rd Ed.) G&ford, CT:
The Globe Pequot Press.
Szurovy, Geza.( 1995) Profitable Photomanhv: Start &
Run a Monev-Making Business. New York:
TAB Books.
10
B.
Created interview questions for home based photographers and

prospective and former brides.
C.
Contacted home based photographers to request interviews or

to complete survey sent by Internet e-mail. I eventually turned
to telephone interviews. I interviewed the following homebased photographers:
Steven Theis, Owner/Photographer - neis
Photography, Ltd., Seaford, DE, 28 years as home-
based photographer.
Emily Sinclair, Owner/Photographer- Portraits by
Emily, Manassas, VA, storefront studio photographer
from 1983 until 7 years ago when she moved her

business to her home.
John Kim Muchesko, Owner/Photographer- John Kim
Muchesko Photography, Johnstown, PA, 7 years as
home-based photographer.
Katrina Kilgallon, Owner/Photographer- Artistic
11
Photogrqhy, Spring City, PA, 5 years as a home-based
photographer.
D.
Sent out e-mail questionnaires and went to bridal shops to

survey brides-to-be and recent former brides.
E.
Contacted various types of businesses to find out what their

photographic needs are and who takes their photographs.
F.
Contacted county and state agencies to find out zoning

restrictions and permits needed.
G.
Contacted local Chamber of Commerce for information on how

they foster businesses.
H.
Contacted the yellow pages for advertising rates as well as a

local web site to find out costs for making the business easy to
find by potential clients.
I.
Worked two bridal shows for a home-based photographer (my

brother) for hands-on experience.
12
VI.
Research
Literature review
I was fortunate enough to find two books written specifically about starting a
photography business. One book, How to Start a Home-BasedPhotography
Business by Kerr Oberrecht discusses just as the title would have you believe,
starting a home-based photography business. The other, Profitable

Photography: Start & Run a Money-Mating Business by Geza Szurovy, deals
more with starting a photography business in general and the broad spectrum
of having a photography business.
Oberrecht begins by going through some basic questions a person should ask
himself when deciding to start a home-based photography business.
1.
Why do you want to start a home-based business?
2.
What photographic experience and management skills can you

bring to your new business?
3.
How much space will you need for your new business?
4.
How do you plan to accommodate the space needs of your new
13
business?
5.
What are your immediate and Uure equipment needs and how
will you meet them?
6.
What licenses, permits, and laws do you need to know about to

operate a business thorn your home?
7.
How much cash will you need to run your business for one year
and where will it come Corn?
8.
Who are your competitors, how are they doing, and how do
you expect to overtake them in the marketplace?
9.
What are the short-term financial and personal goals for your
new business?
10.
What are your long-term financial and personal goals?

(Oberrecht, 2000, pp.4-7)
AtIer deciding to open a home-based photography business, one should decide

if it will be part-time or full-time. There are some very valid reasons to start
part-time. By starting part-time you can keep your full-time job with the
steady pay and benefits. You can have a chance to gain experience and slowly
build a client base. You can purchase equipment as the business can pay for it,
14
without taking out a loan. You can build up a cash reserve for if, and when
you want to start fbll-time. You have a chance to build up the business to a
point where you can make ends meet without another job. (Oberrecht, 2000)
Next one should look at what type of photography would one like to do?
Assignment and Stock are the two types of photography. You can do one or
both. Assignment is when you are specifically hired by the client to take
photographs. With assignment photography, the photographer will not incur
any financial risk until the contract is signed. Stock is when you have already
taken the photographs and sell them afterward. Stock photography has a
greater financial risk since you as the photographer will bear all expenses up
front with no guarantee of ever being paid for your photographs or for.the time
you spent. (Szurovy, 1995)
AtIer considering assignment or stock photography, you also want to review

the various types of markets there are for photographs. The four basic markets
are: advertising, corporate, editorial, and retail. Many types of photography
fall within several different markets. The advertising market is of photos of
products to be sold. Examples are catalog photos, real estate circulars, or
15
fashion, pet, and architectural magazines. The corporate market encompasses

corporate annual reports, executive portraits, ,public relations brochures, and
events. The editorial market includes any photos for newspapers or magazines.
The retail market is saved for last because it includes everything else, such as
weddings, portraits, school photography, pet photography. (Szurovy, 1995)
Having basic photography skills is nice, but if you are looking to be a

professional, then taking courses or getting some type of training is a good
idea. You can take college or correspondence courses, attend seminars, or
apprentice for another photographer as an assistant. (Oberrecht, 2000)
Next, you should ask yourself the question What type of photography would I
enjoy?
Being an assistant to a photographer would be a great way to End
out. Another way would be to assess your style or likes and dislikes, or your
actual goals.
The business side must be kept in balance. When starting a home-based

business, you will need to set up a
business in all ways. You will need to go to
the county offices and see what the county and state will require. You will
16
want to consider whether to incorporate the business or what type of legal

entity you wish to be, so you may want to seek the advice of an attorney. You
will need liability, disability, health, and equipment insurance. You should
seek tax advice from an accountant, so be sure to keep all the receipts and
records needed for tax time, including any necessary sales taxes receipts. Since
the business will be run out of your home, you must inquire about zoning
restrictions(Szurovy, 1995). Separate checking and credit card accounts
should also be looked into, so that you can keep your personal and business
income and expenses separate. If you are going to use a computer, then you
may also want to look into a software package that takes care of your invoices
and bookkeeping as well (Oberrecht, 2000).
In addition to a computer, other standard office supplies will be needed. These

include telephone, answering machine, fax machine, desk, file cabinets, stapler,
pens, and paper. You will need a properly set up office to accommodate
running your business.
Space must also be considered. There never seems to be enough of it in a

home. A business will take space away from your home. You will need to
17
consider space for several reasons. First, you will need office space for the
desk and all its accessories. Second, you will need storage space for your
equipment, photos and negatives. Third, you will need space for a home
studio. Oberrecht recommends a space of at least 8 feet wide by 10 to 12 feet
deep for a home studio to be able to accommodate all the lighting and props
needed for portraits(Oberrecht, 2000).
The home studio will need to be equipped. Background seamless paper in

white and black is a basic foundation. You will need to have equipment to
hang backgrounds. Oberrecht recommends 8 feet telescopic stands for this.
Studio lighting will be needed as well. Two lights with stands will get you
started (Oberrecht, 2000). It is generally assumed in both books that if you are
already wanting to start a home-based photography business, you already have
the basic camera equipment needed to do so (Oberrecht, 2000) (Szurovy,
1995).
Of course, you will need to write a financial plan. A good place to begin is to
figure out what your start-up costs will be. The following worksheet contains
basic start-up expenses to consider:
18
Estimated Start-up Costs

1. Decorating and remodeling
2. Furniture and tixtures
3. Office equipment
4. Photography equipment
5. Vehicle
6. Insurance
7. Licenses and Permits
8. Legal and professional fees
9. Office supplies and materials
10. Photography supplies and materials
11. Stationary and business cards
12. Advertising
13. Unexpected expenses
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
Total Estimated Start-up Costs
$
(Oberrecht, 2000, p. 2
After getting a good idea of operating costs you should figure out how much
you will need as a salary for yourself If you were to devote yourself ml- time
to your home-based business, then the general recommendation is to have six
months worth of savings to cover expenses and salary (Szurovy, 1995).
Both of the books went over basic accounting principles that any business
owner should be aware of and become familiar with. Principles they cover
19
seem familiar to me since I have a degree in accounting, but a person not

familiar with basic bookkeeping should pay close attention.
Another item both authors go over with extreme care is the purchase of a
computer for the business. They mention taking computer courses and system
requirements and hardware. Since the realm of computers changes constantly,
especially updates to hardware and software, anyone embarking on a new
business should research the latest computers and make sure the computer is
expandable and will be ungradable. In order to know what hardware tp
purchase, you will need to know what software you will be using, so you will
know the system requirements (Oberrecht, 2000).
A business plan is crucial to develop. It will contain important items that need
to be put down on paper so that you can set goals and go back and assess them
as you go along. You will also update your business plan as your business or
goals change. Another way that a business plan is often used is for obtaining a
small business loan. A business plan will contain: (Oberrecht, 2000; Szurovy,
1995):
Mission statement
20
Legal structure
Financial plan
Management/Operations plan
Marketing plan
Once you write the business plan, continue to assess it. Keep putting your
goals and ideas on paper and check on yourself periodically to see where you
stand at meeting the goals you have set for yourself If you are not meeting
them, then it may be time to make some changes to your strategy on how to
obtain your goals.
Interviews
My interviews with home-based photographers were wonderful once I started

doing my research through telephone interviews. I asked all of the
photographers the same set of questions which are in Appendix A. The first
photographer I spoke with was Steve Theis of Seaford, Delaware. Mr. Theis
has been in the home-based photography business since 1974. He is a past
president of the Maryland Professional Photographers Association (MPPA)
and was instrumental in starting the Delaware chapter. I was extremely excited
21
to talk with someone with his experience and background. He also agreed to
validate my paper.
I utilized the Internet to search for photographers. I did have diiculty finding
photographers who would answer my questions. I had originally planned to
interview six photographers. I contacted several photographers in early
February. When a month had passed and no responses had been received
ti-om them, I had to start searching again for photographers to interview. My
original questions had been sent to home-based photographers by Internet email. I tried to avoid earlier problems by conducting my interviews
immediately over the telephone. Each telephone interview took between 20 to
40 minutes. I had intended to have a home based photographer from
Charlotte, North Carolina as part of my collection of interviews. However,
every single photographer from Charlotte who answered the phone said NO.
The only one who would even speak with me was a photographer who did
contract work. She referred me to someone, but he never returned my call.
The photographers that I did interview were wonderful and had an obvious joy
and passion for their work. They were each dierent in some way, but
everything they had to say I found interesting. Ironically, now thinking about
22
the gender and age demographics - I found a coincidence. I interviewed two

women and two men. One woman and one man have grown children and are
in the mature phase of their business life cycle. The other woman and man
are starting their families, the man had actually just brought home bis first child
that week, and I would classify them as still in the growth phase of the product
life cycle.
Steve Theis. Owner/Photouraoher

Theis Photom&hy, Llll
I spoke to Mr. Steven Theis over the telephone on March 13,2002. Mr. Theis
started his home-based photography business in 1974. He had previously
worked for another studio doing some portraits, weddings, darkroom work
and photographing the winning horses at the horse races for about five years.
He received some training while working for this studio. He later received
training at the Germain School of Photography. He described his involvement
with the MPPA as his most beneficial training. The monthly MPPA meetings
have been an opportunity for him to meet with others in his profession. He has
also taken seminars and courses offered through MPPA.
23
He utilizes medium format for 95% of his work some 35mm for journalistic
weddings. What caught me by surprise was that he said he would be going
completely digital in about a year because the technology had come far enough
to produce the quality. He focuses mostly on custom portraits and weddings.
He enjoys the custom portraits because of the consultation with the clients on
mood, setting and clothing. From what he described, it seemed to me he
enjoys the creative challenges in creating another treasured heirloom for a
family. He described enjoying that challenge as rewarding to him. When his
children were growing up, he enjoyed working from home so he could be close
to them. An actual challenge he faces, though, as a home-based photographer
is educating clients. Educating clients, from what he described, is very broad.
It encompasses informing his clients that although he may work from his home,
he does have business hours and that 10 p.m. is not necessarily the best time
for them to stop by to see if their Senior portraits are ready yet. Educating
clients, though, is a bit deeper than that. He also mentioned teaching them the
value of photography and discussing all the information they will need up front
to avoid unnecessary misunderstandings. He has a diicult time separating his
private life from his work and estimates he works at least 50 hours per week
on average.
24
When asked whether he recommended starting out with a small business loan
or expanding the business as profits allow, he replied that it would depend on
the market and ifthey were in a larger city. Mr. Theis mentioned that most of
his business does not come from the town he lives in, but mostly from people
vacationing at the nearby beaches.
Mr. Theis marketing is directed toward the tourist visiting the MarylandDelaware beaches. He sets up displays of his work in malls, state fairs and
restaurants to create a desire for his work, which he feels is his best marketing
tool. He described vacation as the best time for a family to have a portrait
done since everyone is there together without having to worry about
scheduling a sitting around soccer practice and dance class. With each
portrait, he tries to capture warm and fuzzy feelings that are memorable for
each family. To accomplish, this he makes the photo shoot fun.
Equipment that he considers essential includes: telephone, camera, portable
lighting, and nice backgrounds. He did not consider a darkroom essential
because he feels a professional lab is better and more cost effective. He gave
an example using the processing of digital photography, which only a lab could
really afford since a Lambda printer he said could cost as much as $700,000.
25
A professional lab with the volume to support such equipment can afford it
The business uses about 1,500 square feet of his home, which he admits is
mostly for negative storage. He describes his work schedule as full-time
grossing an estimated $350,000 per year and netting about $96,000 a year. He
also has his son now working with him as a photographer. He spoke of
working with his son with great pride. After taIking with Mr. Theis, I was reenergized about my project.
Emily Sinclair
Portraits bv Emilv
I spoke with Ms. Sinclair on March 14,2002, by telephone. She originally
started her photography business in the rear of her first husbands store in
1983. She displayed her work in the storefront window. When he died, about
seven years ago, she moved her studio into her home. She had previous
experience from before she had her children, back in her 20s, which was
mostly studio work that she did for about six years. Most of her training she
described as on the job. She mentioned attending seminars at the Virginia
Professional Photographers Association.
26
Ms. Sinclair made very clear numerous times that she does this for the love of
it. She enjoys getting down on the floor and playing with the children. She
focuses mainly on pre-bridal and childrens portraits. She focuses on these
because it is what she enjoys. She utilizes medium format, She does this parttime about 20 hours a week she guesses. Her business uses a room 22 x 13
feet, which is not enough space she lamented.
She does not advertise. She utilizes donations to charities like silent auctions,
She gets business through referrals, word of mouth, and placing photos in a
baby store. She also mentioned that a framing store utilizes her work in
displaying frames.
She mentioned a young woman that she is helping to get started in

photography. The advice she has been giving the woman is to start out small
and gradually get the equipment as she can afford it. Ms. Sinclair also stated
she did not feel someone should have to deal with the pressure of the debt
hanging over them. She mentioned starting out with basics- like a plain basic
background. She recommended expanding only as the business can support it.
Essential equipment she described as a good camera, good lights and a good
27
background.
She declined to answer concerning her income. She did state that she has not
been a photographer for income, but for the love of it. She does not have to
worry about paying the biis to support her family. She works part-time and
schedules appointments around her activities.
John Kim Muchesko

John Kim Muchesko Phofopauhy
I spoke with Mr. Muchesko by telephone on March 15,2002. From 1994 to
1996, he worked at various photography jobs in Johnstown, Pennsylvania. In
1995, he started his home-based photography business. He received training
from the Art Institute of Pittsburgh, concentrating in Photography.
He focuses on portraits, weddings, and what he described as mostly

everything. He enjoys portraits the most because he likes coming up with new
ideas. Medium format is his preference, but on occasion he uses 35 mm He
does not use any digital. He does not see any challenges to having a homebased photography business, and he does find the free time to enjoy hobbies
28
and family. During our discussion he shared that he was a new father in the
past week.
His biggest challenge starting out was raising capital to buy equipment. He
said he waited tables for five years until he established himself and also worked
for another photographer. Hehe recommended a small business loan to get
started. He added that other types of debts at higher interest rates an add up
when one is trying to get established. He mentioned that when he was first
starting out and had little experience, the banks were not exactly eager to give
him a loan but after he had several years experience he was able to consolidate
his various debt with a small business loan easily. He recommends someone
starting out to start out part-time and keeping a full-time job until the business
has developed.
He said that January through March is the slow season. During the year, he
averages 30 hours per week. His most important marketing tool is his
personality, and he feels that personality is everything. He does not use
advertising, but estimates that 95% of his business is through referrals and the
other 5% by being listed in the Yellow Pages. Being his biggest marketing tool,
29
personality is what he describes as bis most important piece of equipment. Of

course, a camera is another piece of equipment he noted as important. He
mentioned that he utilizes periodic replacement of his camera bodies as a form
of preventative maintenance plan.
He estimated that the business uses about 500 sq. ft. of space. He said that
negatives take up too much space, so he offers an additional package with
weddings that afler a certain amount in orders, he includes the negatives in an
effort to reduce the space needed. He works his full-time job and he estimates
his net income at $48,000 per year He admitted several times during the
conversation that he feels he would make more money ifhe took a stronger
business approach about managing his business.
Katrina Kileallon
Artistic Photozraphv
I interviewed Ms. Kilgallon on April 1, 2002, after originally speaking, by

telephone, with her mother in Wilmington, Delaware. Her mother Kathy
Hendricks has a home-based photography business with the same name. Her
30
mother referred me to talking with Ms. Kilgahon because she herself was not
very active with her business recently due to illness. Ms. Kilgallon started her
own home-based photography business five years ago.
Ms. Kilgahon was photography editor for her yearbook in college. AAerward,
she shot for other photographers for about 5 years, mostly shooting weddings.
Growing up she had watched her mother work as a home-based photographer,
and noted the flexibility that it enabled her to have in raising her children. Ms.
Kilgallon has two small children at home. Her schedule allows her to be at
home with them and to schedule shooting weddings when her husband can be
with the children. Her training experience includes general experience and
photography courses in college. Her major was small business
entrepreneurship and a minor in art.
Ms. Kilgallon focuses on wedding photography and portraits. She also does
commercial work for a real estate agent shooting events for a newsletter. She
enjoys weddings because she feels it comes naturally to her. She describes her
style as traditional, which when asked further, she explained as formal poses.
She prefers medium format for weddings. She does not use digital, and she
31
uses 35mm for the commercial work.
Her biggest challenge is getting work done with her 2 yearold, 8 month old and
a 4 year old she watches. She also mentioned the same challenge of the
previous photographers I interviewed- getting people to understand the value
of photography. She said it can be difficult to get people to understand that it
is more than the cost of a roll of film. Her greatest reward is that she gets the
flexibility to be a mom; if someone wants to schedule something on her
daughters birthday, she can just say No.
The photography business does not provide her main source of income. It is
actually a part-time job, since she spends about 10 to 15 hours per week on it.
She grosses an estimated $10,000 per year and nets about $3,000. She does
subcontract work for other photographers which is about half of the time. In
the last year she shot approximately 25 wedding for her own business. Her
best marketing tool is referrals.
Although she feels she never had an actual start date for her business, she
suggested that a person start out slow and ifbusiness goes well, then take out
32
a loan, but a person should try to get established first. She would recommend
keeping another job while getting started.
She considers essential equipment to be a camera, good flash and tihn. A

back-up camera is not essential. The business uses about 5 feet x 5 feet space
Financing
I spoke with two banks and they both seemed to say the same thing: every
loan is different and there are no pre-set parameters for a business loan. I
spoke with Cindy Baker of Farmers & Mechanics National Bank and Mike
Himmel of Fredericktown Bank. They both stated that a business plan and
linancial statements would be needed. They also said that prior experience in
the field of the new business would be considered. Personal loans, both
emphasized, and stated that the principal owner would have to be personally
liable for the loan. Ms. Baker added that the amount of start-up capital
contributed towards the business by the loan applicant would be a sign&ant
consideration as well. She also mentioned home equity loans as a way to
finance a business start-up. I had hoped to get some idea of interest rates and
requirements for a business loan, but I felt stonewalled since neither could
provide that kind of information as each loan application would be reviewed
33
individually. Ms. Baker went further to say that a business first starting up
may create a business plan but it is only a projection, whereas a business two
to three years old has actual data from which to create realistic projections,
which is why a new business would be reviewed differently.
I live in the Fredericktown Historic District in the City of Frederick in

Frederick County, Maryland. I spoke with Mark Walls, Principal Planner I of
the Frederick County Planning Department on April 1,2002. Since I had
taken the day off from work to catch up with my research, when he said he
would fax the literature to me, I offered to walk down to Winchester Hall
being that it is only a few blocks from my house and I do not own a fax
machine as well. What I learned from our conversation was that I needed to
go talk with both the Fredericktown Historic District and the City of Frederick
because I reside in both. Also, since I may move into the county in the next
few years in order to place my son in a better school district, I am going to
keep my notes on the county requirements.
If I lived in the county andwas only using my home as an office there would be
34
no fee, and I would till out a Home Occupation Permit Questionnaire

(Appendix II).
If I had only one non-residential employee with a limited number of vehicle

trips to the home for business purposes (excluding deliveries), the number of
vehicle trips allowed would depend on what type of road the home is served
by, A Home Occupation withMinor Impact would require a permit that I
would get from the Permits Department and would cost a one-time fee of $30,
which would be good as long as I live at my current residence.
I then spoke with Tim Davis, a Planner with the City of Frederick. The house I
currently live in is zoned R-4. Under this zoning I would need to get a special
exception from the Board of Zoning Appeals. All that would be allowed in my
zoning classification is a home occupation with no clients visiting; additionally,
I would have to arrange to meet all deliveries. He gave me the forms and
applicable code (Appendix I).
Permits
I spoke with both the Clerk of the Courts office in Frederick and the State
35
Licensing Bureau in Annapolis. They both said that as long as the finished
photo albums have photos in them, and I am not selling lihn or empty frames,
then I would not need a Traders License. (Appendix M)
Advertising
I contacted Verixon Yellow Pages which serves Frederick. They had someone
call me back named Brian Kennedy. We went over different prices for placing
an ad in the Yellow Pages. Verizon charges monthly to your phone bill. After
going over all the prices and listening to the photographers that I interviewed, I
would want to go with a bold listing and my web page address, which would
cost $20.75 per month. (Appendix J)
Now that the Internet has taken over, I plan to list my web page. One web site
in Frederick that is heavily advertised is Frederick.Com. I looked on the
Internet and found the rates for businesses to be listed on the Frederick.Com
web site. It costs $375 per year which also includes a web page. They have a
second option; if you already have your own web page they will post a link on
their site and that cost $199 per year. I really lie designing and building my
sons web page, so I could see me maybe considering utilizing the second
36
option. I think that I would prefer to be in direct control on my own web site.
I looked at YAHOO Geocities where I already have two free personal web
pages for my son and my class reunion. I would be able to utilize their server
and get my own domain name through them for $19.95 per month, plus the
initial set up fee of $25. (Appendix K)
Photoaravbic Needs of Local Businesses and Retail Clients

I contacted several local businesses by phone. The interview notes are in
Appendix F. Most utilize in-house staffto take pictures. For big events and
receptions, they call professional photographers. I interviewed my tiend Joe
who works for an advertising agency. He said his firm utilizes stock photos.
As part of my research of the retail clients I surveyed both former and future
brides (Appendix G). I found out was that the photographers I had
interviewed were right, customers need to be educated. When asked what
format did the bride prefer, her response was variety. From the way she
answered her other questions I think she may have been thinking about picture
size as in 5 x 7 or 8 x 10. Another bride to-be, my friend Denise, was very upfront that she did not know about photography. Since her wedding is in two
37
and a half months and she mentioned that she still did not have a photographer,
I started to feel very nervous for her. I quickly bolted back an e-mail to her on
what medium format meant. When 1 look over the surveys, I get the sense
that a brides know very little about photography. There was no same answer
for any question, except I was getting the impression - the bride wants to look
good.
Having been a bride myself, once upon a time, I have my own opinion. I
believe that every bride has spent years since she was a little girl, dreaming of
the day that she would be a princess for a day. The only way to capture that
day for when you are old and gray is with pictures.
Chamber of Commerce
I spoke with Mary Duvall a receptionist for the Frederick County Chamber of
Commerce. It would cost $3 10 for a sole owner and one employee to join. I f
I had two to five employees, the cost would be $341 per year and then I would
get two representative in the data base. (Appendix N)
38
Trade Association
I noticed that two of the photographers I interviewed, mentioned the
Professional Photographers Association (PPA). They mentioned meeting and
seminars that they felt they had learned from. The cost to join is $62.67 the
first month of each year and $12.67 the remaining 11 months for the first two
years as an Aspiring member. (Appendix 0)
Personal exuerience- Bridal Show

My brother is a home-based photographer here in Frederick, which is why I
interviewed photographers outside of my area. I was hesitant to tell him the
topic of my paper. I had always thought about being a home-based
photographe,r and I had even bought some books to read, which he saw on my
bookcase and borrowed. Once he started his business, I felt like photography
was his territory; like a dog, he had marked it as his. So I felt uneasy about
telling him about my project. I finally told him, and he invited me to spend a
day in the trenches as he called it. A bridal show at the mall he had
registered to participate in. I have written my notes and placed them in
Appendix P.
I ended up working at two bridal shows that weekend. I would
like to believe that there are successful bridal shows since so many of the
39
brides I interviewed mentioned they planned go to them. I am sorry to say that

more non-bride business seemed to be conducted, or the soliciting of it, more
vendor to vendor. I was not exactly sure who the bridal show on the second
day was for, the brides or the vendors. One vendor was trying to get my
brother to join BNA for $300 a year; another wanted $60 a month to basically
give references to brides who come to see their facility. It included being part
of their web site, it still seemed lie paying for referrals.
VII. Conclusion
My conclusion is that I would still like to open my own home-based

photography business. I would want to do it part-time on the weekends while
keeping my full-time job with benefits until I retire. I would want to purchase
equipment only as I was able to afford it. After talking with the banks, I would
much prefer to avoid getting a loan unless I was very established and wanted
the capital to do a large expansion for the business. I would target weddings
and portraits since those would fit well with working on weekends and around
my lull-time job.
40
Untortunately, the house that I live in currently does not fit into this type of
home-based business. It is very small and does not have any type of parking
for me or for customers closer than a block, and the zoning designation would
not permit me to have customers visit. Without being able to have customers I
would have to transport all my work to show a potential customer. I also do
not have any additional space. I already converted my attic into a bedroom to
make room for my son when he was born and my basement is actually a dirt
cellar, so I do not have adequate storage or space in my current home. Since I
do hope to eventually move, I will keep all the considerations of space and
zoning in mind when I look for my next house.
It has been many years since I was taught basic photography. I would be much
more comfortable if1 took some classes, maybe at a community college.
Experience is something else I would need. All of the photographers I
interviewed and the books I read mentioned working for someone else. I like
this idea I feel that I should work as an assistant to a photographer who
works with weddings and portraits. The other thing I would learn besides
experience, is if I even like this kind of work? It would be highly beneficial I
feel.
41
I would need to figure out a way to market my product. I think I should utilize
opportunities like those mentioned by Emily Sinclair, such as talking with a
frame shop about placing my photos in frames for display in their shop and
donating work to silent auctions that would permit me to have a sample of my
work next to the bidding sheet. Here in Frederick many of the events to raise
funds for charitable causes have silent auctions. AtIer my experience working
the bridal shows, I think I would scout them out a year in advance, and see
which ones were successlUy run and attended before considering paying to
participate in one. I would also need a portfolio to exhibit, and I would not
have one the first year necessarily.
Considering the positive comments Tom the photographers I interviewed and

atler reviewing all the resources the PPA has to offer, I feel it should definitely
be an organization that I would want to join when I start my home-based
photography business. I do not think a membership in the Frederick County
Chamber of Commerce would be something I would be interested in. I looked
into it because classmates in my peer review groups mentioned it, but I
personally do not see how it could have a direct cost benefit for me.
42
Advertising in the Yellow Pages is something I do not feel that I could avoid.
I say this because the Yellow Pages are where a person automatically looks to
find a phone number of a business. I would want to stand out just a tiny bit,
just enough to be easily found. I think I would want to go with a bold listing
that includes a web site address, which would cost $20.75 per month.
Speaking of a web page, I would want to have a web page with a name like
pambakerphotography.com. I could do this through Yahoo Geocities
(Appendix K) for $19.95 per month ifthe name was not already taken. There
would be an initial set-up fee of $25, but I would prefer to have control over
my web page and later I may consider having a lii on Frederick.Com, but not
at first.
Although making some additional money is important to me, I would be mostly

concerned about the business being able to support itself I believe that by only
expanding the business only as I can afford it or the business itself can afford it
would be the ideal way to approach this. I am very conservative by nature, but
I feel that this would be the best way. I have reviewed the projected income
and expenses, keeping in mind what Cynthia Baker of Farmers & Mechanics
Bank said about them only being an estimate. I believe that if1 had $3,000 in
43
savings to start this home-based business, I would be able to get through the
first year. My total first three years projected expenses are under $11,000. At
some point I would hope to have made some money by then, or reassessed my
position completely.
VIII. Business Plan
The lirst thing I would do is take classes in basic photography at the local
community college. Following that, I would work as an assistant to a
photographer who does portrait and wedding work to gain practical experience
and to get some real hands-on training. I feel that this would make the best
foundation for learning the ropes.
The second thing I would need to do is buy a house in a location that would
permit me to have clients visit the house. I consider this to be very important
I plan to target weddings and portraits. To do so, I plan to use donations to

silent auctions and asking a frame shop to display my work. Atter reviewing
the interviews from both former and future brides it seems to me that when I
44
design any literature or web page for my business, I will need to do some
educating of the potential clients. After speaking with Jennifer and Kathryn in
Cindys Formals, I believe that they really do not have a clue what they want.
My job will end up being to help them to know what they want before they
decide on how they want their wedding or portrait photographed.
The Yellow Pages are important but expensive, so to keep the cost reasonable
I will get my alphabetical listing in bold with my web page address listed. I will
also set up a web page named pambakerphotography.com. I have noted the
costs in the projected income and expenses worksheet below.
Also noted below is the expenditure for membership to the Professional

Photographers Association. After talking with the photographers I interviewed
and reviewing PPA web site, I believ that membership in this organization
would yield me the benefit of having relevant seminars available and the ability
i
i
F
to meet with others in the field at the meetings.
45
Proiected Income and Exaenses
Year 1
Year 2
Year 3
carry over balance
711.16
2,727.32
Income
3*1,200 3,600.OO 5*1200 6,OOO.OO 8*1200 9,600.OO
weddings
200.00
portraits
200.00
500.00
other
200.00
200.00
300.00
Total Income
>
I
>
Exoenses
Equipment
200.00
500.00
200.00
400.00
300.00
lights
film
background
camera & lenses
photo processing
flash
computer equipment
batteries
phone
web page
membership- PPA
Total Expenses
Net Income
150.00
125.00
947.40
264.40
202.04
>
300.00
650.00
1,ooo.oo
495.00
200.00
150.00
200.00
947.40
239.40
202.04
711.16
2,727.32
800.00
200.00
1,ooo.oo
800.00
150.00
200.00
947.40
239.40
202.04
>
8,5%X.48
I have included in my projected expenses the purchase of lighting, additional

lenses, flash, batteries, and camera upgrades. I do not anticipate needing to
buy a computer or phone since I am a real computer geek and love having a
46
working computer with great Internet access. I have tried to keep the idea
simple since this is supposed to be a part-time job from my home.
I do not anticipate applying for any loans. I feel that if1 have $3,000 or more
in savings, based on the above worksheet, that I can get started. I am
comfortable with that and I would rather not have debt hanging over me when
starting out. Since I would remain at my full-time job which has a steady
paycheck and benefits, I would not have to make any significant lifestyle
adjustments.
47
lx.
Validation
Pam;
Your have done a wonder&l Job. This being the only paper that I have had
the opportunity to review, I am still unsure of the proper response.
One thing that I believe all potential wedding photographers should ask
themselves is Am I really willing to take on the responsibility of being
the photog. at a couples special day? I have met a number of photographers
who did one or two weddings and then quit because they felt that the
monetary rewards did not begin to compensate for the stress and aggravation
of the job. They felt that the stress of knowing that they only had one
opportunity to do it correctly under fire was to intimidating.
Another issue that most wedding photographers fail to realize is the amount
of time devoted to each assignment. You may only be on the actual
assignment on a Sat. for 6 hours, however, to service the client adequately
you will average another 24 to 28 hours on behind the scenes time to
complete the order. If you are charging 1200.00 per job, and you have 600.00
48
in expenses to provide the client with a 30 Page custom Album then your are
only making around 20.00 per hour. Is this worth being away from your
family on a Sat. when a lot of family activities are occurring?
By the way, I think that you budget numbers for the first year are
incorrect. 3 weddings at 1200.00 per is 3600.00.
A wedding couple will always remember their special day through the eyes and
talent of their photog. They can become extremely upset if the photographer
does not meet of exceed their expectations, to the point of entering into
Legal Channels.
One of the main reasons for becoming a full time wedding photographer, is
being eligible for ml1 membership into the PPA. Then you wii be covered
under a kind of Malpractice insurance. This indemnification program can be
researched on the PPA website.
On advertising, I am glad that you mentioned displays for getting your work
out. This is extremely important as photography is such a visual product.
49
It cannot be effectively promoted any other way. You must somehow convey
to your client that you are the best Photographer for their assignment.
Remember, Perception is reality, when it comes to advertising.
Your business plan is put together very well. You will be very wise to gain
as much practical experience as possible by working for an established
studio until you feel comfortable handling assignments on your own. It
would also be of a great benefit to get involved with the Maryland PPA.
Their educational programs will be much more informative for the money than
the National PPA. as you will not have to travel to participate.
I hope that my comments will be helpful and not to late for you to
incorporate in your paper. I am currently in The Caymans and I did not have
the time to review your paper until I was on the plane.
Cod Bless! Steve Theis
50
References
Frederick.Com, < btto://w~v.home.frederick.co~n~~~isc:ioin.asp?site=l~1 >,

March 12,2002.
Oberrecht, Ken(2000). How to Start a Home Based Photonraohv Business.
3rd Ed. Guilford, CT: The Globe Pequot Press,
Professional Photographers Association web site,
< I~tto:!~wuw.~pa.eom/oubIic/articies~indew.cfm?cat=48>, March 15,
2002.
Szurovy, Geza.( 1995) Profitable Photonraohv: Start & Run a Monev-Making
Business. New York: TAB Books.
Yahoo Geocities, httnl~www. neocities.vahoo.com/ps!iio?.refer=neohmbar ,
April 13,2002.
Interview Sources
Baker, Cynthia, Community Office Sales Manager, Farmers & Mechanics

National Bank, Corporate Lobby, 110 Thomas Johnson Drive,
Frederick, MD 21702, interviewed by telephone February 25,2002.
Boyer, Troy, Used Car Sales Manager, Frederick Motor Co., One Waverley
51
Drive, Frederick, MD 21702, Interviewed by telephone March 28,

2002.
BuRington, Brooke, Church Secretary, Calvary Church, 304 Lore Ave.,
Wilmington, DE 19809, Interviewed by phone March 10,2002.
Bymes, Terry, Administrative Assistant to Assistant Vice President of
Marketing and Development, Frederick Memorial Hospital, 400 W.
Seventh Street, Frederick, MD 21701, Interviewed by telephone March
28, 2002.
Castle, Melissa, former bride, interviewed by email March 27, 2002.
Chavez, Denise, future bride, interviewed by email April 1,2002.
Davis Timothy, Planner, The City of Frederick, City Hall, 101 North Court
Street, Frederick, MD 2 170 1, interviewed in person April 1, 2002.
Duvall, Mary, Receptionist, Chamber of Commerce, 43-A South Market
Street, Frederick, MD 21701, Interviewed by telephone March 28,
2002.
Frome, Michael, O&e Clerk II, State License Bureau, Louis Goldstein Bldg.,
80 Calvelt Street, Annapolis, MD 21404, Interviewed by telephone
March 28, 2002.
Fuss, Bonnie, Deputy Clerk for Clerk of the Court, 100 W. Patrick Street,
52
Frederick MD 21701, Interviewed by telephone March 2S, 2002.

Himmel, Michael Commercial Loan Officer, Fredericktown Bank, 30 N.
Market Street, Frederick, MD 21701, Interviewed by telephone
February 25,2002.
Jennifer, future bride, interviewed in person at Cindys Formals, March 15,
2002
Kathryn future bride, interviewed in person at Cindys Formals, March 15,
2002
Kennedy, Brian Verizon Yellow Pages, Interviewed by telephone February 27,
2002.
Kilgallon, Katrina, Owneriphotographer, Artistic Photography, 13 Deep Pond
Drive, Spring City, PA 19475, Interviewed by telephone April 1,2002.
Lloyd, Susan, FSK Lincoln, Mercury, Audi, Isuzu of Riverside,1291 Riverbend
Way, Frederick MD 21701 , Interviewed by telephone March 15,2002.
Muchesko, John Kim. Home based photographer- John Kim Muchesko
Photography, 129 Blawn St., Johnstown, PA Interviewed by
telephone on March 15,2002.
Silovich, Joseph, Lead Designer, Goodway Graphics, 202 Perry Parkway,
Suite #6, Gaithersburg, MD 20877, Interviewed by telephone March
53
10,2002.
Sinclair, Emily. Home based photographer- Portraits by Emily, 9201 Sudley
Road, Manassas, VA 20110. Interviewed by telephone, March 14,
2002.
Theis, Steven. Home based photographer- Theis Photography, Ltd, 120
Greenbrier Ln, Seaford, DE 19973. Interviewed by telephone
March 13,2002.
Walls, Mark, Principal Planner I, Frederick County Planning Department,
Winchester Hall, 12 East Church Street, Frederick, MD 21701,
Interviewed by both telephone and in person April 1,2002
Ward, Melissa, former bride, interviewed by e-mail March 10, 2002.
Whiting, Susan, Event Assistant, City of Frederick Office of Special Events, 4
West Seventh Street, Frederick, MD 21701, Interviewed by telephone
March 15,2002 and April 12,2002.
54
Appendix A
Home -Based Photographer Questionnaire:

1.
When did you start your home-based photography business?
2.
Were you ever previously employed as a photographer? If so, what

and how long?.
3.
What types of training did you already have when you started and what
types of additional training have you found useful since?
4.
What type of photography do you focus on? (i.e...Retail, editorial,

advertising, commercial, weddings, portraits, etc.. .)
4a.
If you focus on more than one, which do you enjoy the most
and why?
5.
What do you find as the biggest challenge of operating a home based

business and what do you find most rewarding?
6.
What was your biggest struggle when first starting? (i.e.. Equipment,
training, staging, budget, advertising...)
7.
How many hours per week does this job require from you?
8.
Do you recommend someone starting out get the needed financial

backing through a small business loan or to only expand as the business
can support it?

9.
What formats do YOU work with? 35mm, medium or digital?
10.
Would you recommend someone starting out - start out part-time and
keep a fi~ll time job until business has developed?
11.
What do you find to be your best marketing tool?
12.
What equipment do you consider essential?
13.
How much space does your home based business require?
14.
What is your net income? Is this full-time or part-time?
Appendix B
Steven Theis, Owner/Photographer
Theis Photography, LTD
120 Greenhrier Lane
Seaford, DE 19973
Interviewed March 13,2002- telephone
1.
1974
2.
Were you ever previously employed as a photographer? If so,

what and how long?
Yes, 5 years Worked for another photography studio. Also

worked photographing horses in the winners circle. Worked
also in the darkroom and some portraits and candid weddings.
3.
What types of training did you already have when you started and
what types of additional training have you found useful since?
He was trained by the owner of a previous studio for 9 months.

He attended the Germain School of Photography. He
emphasized that what has benefitted his career the most has
been being a part of the MPPA. During the monthly meetings
he has learned the most about the business. He stated that he
has taken several week long courses sponsored by the MPPA.
He also said that he benefits from talking with people in the
field.
4.
What type of photography do you focus on? (i.e...Retail,

editorial, advertising, commercial, weddings, portraits, etc...)
Mostly custom portrait and wedding photography.

4a. If you focus on more than one, which do you enjoy the most
and why?
He enjoys the custom portraits the most because he discusses

location, mood, clothing... with the customer
5.
Wdat do you find as the biggest challenge of operating a home

based business and what do you find most rewarding?
Separating his private life from his business is his biggest

challenge. Another challenge is keeping his clients educated by
giving them information up front. He finds providing clients
with heirloom treasures and targeting discerning clients to be
his greatest reward. Another rewarding aspect was that when

he was younger he was always able to be there for his children
close by, always accessible. (His son now works with him in the
business)
6.
What was your biggest struggle when first starting? (i.e..

Equipment, training, staffing, budget, advertising...)
Educating the general public and creating a desire for his

product ofartistic photographs. Getting photographs out into
the community in displays. He used displays in malls, state
fairs, restaurants to create a desire for his product.
7.
50 hours
8.
Do you recommend someoue starting out get the needed financial

backing through a small business loan or to only expand as the
business can support it?
He felt it would depend upon the market- maybe in a bigger city

a loan could be feasible.
9.
What formats do you work with? 35mm, medium or digital?
He utilizes medium format for 95% of his work, some 35mm

for journalistic weddings. He stated that he will soon be going
completely digital because the quality of digital has gotten that
good.
10.
Would you recommend someone starting out - start out part-time

and keep a full time job until business has developed?
In the portrait /wedding business he suggested a person start

out part time and see how it goes. He stated that a person
would need to start a portfolio
11.
Displays (mentioned earlier). Most of his displays are targeted

tot he tourist population. When they take a week off to go to
the beach they do not have their normal hectic schedules to
work around to schedule a family portrait. He said that when
his clients make their vacation plans they also call him up and
schedule their family portrait as well. He tries to make taking
the portrait a fim experience for all so that the portraits
themselves show warm feelings and also when the family looks
at the portrait later on, it invokes warm, memorable feelings of
being together. This leads to repeat clients.

12.
Telephones, camera, portable lighting, nice backgrounds. Will

not need a darkroom because a professional laboratory is better.
to process photographs.
He mentioned that because of the
cost of the equipment for the quality digital processing that only
labs will be able to do it since the cost of the equipment would
be prohibitive for an individual. He mentioned a digital
processor called a Lambda.
13.
1,500 sq. tit. He mentioned that he is in the process of building

a house and will move out of his current home which will then
become just a studio.
14.
Full-time. $96,000 net. $350,000 gross.
Appendix C
Emily SinFlair, Owner/Photographer
Portraits by Emily
9201 Sudley Road
Manassas, VA 20110
Interviewed 3/14/02 - telephone
1.
Originally started in the back of her husbands store, but she moved the
business into the home about 7 years ago. She has had her own
photography business since 1983.
2.

what and how long?
Yes, when she was in her 20s, before she had her children. It
was mostly studio work and she did it for about 6 years.
She has always worked in photography. She attended some

seminars at the Virginia Professional Photographers Assoc., but
most of her training has been on the job.
4.

Mostly portrait. Pre-bridal and childrens
4a.
and why?
She loves portraits and childrens portraits.
5.
What do you find as the biggest challenge of operating a home

She does it because she loves it, not for the income. She loves
playing with the children.
6.

Equipment, training, staffing, budget, advertising...)
She didnt seem to be able to recall any one particular struggle.

When she started out her business was in the back of her
husbands store and she had the window front to show her
work.
7.
About 20 hours.
8.

She inferred through her conversation concerning a young

woman she is helping to start out in photography that the advice
she has been giving the woman is to start out small and
gradually get the equipment as you can afford it. She did say
she didnt feel someone should have to deal with the pressure of
the debt hanging over them. She mentioned starting out with
basics- like a plain basic background. She said to only expand
as business can support it
9.
What formats do YOU work with? 35mm, medium or digital?
120 film; 2 l/4 x 2 l/4 film; Hasselblad. No digital.
10
10.

Part-time and build it up.

11.
She doesnt advertise. She utilizes donations to charities like

silent auctions. She gets business through referrals, word of
mouth and she has photos placed the baby store. She also
mentioned that a framing store utilizes her work in displaying
frames.
12.
A good camera, good lights and a good background.

13.
Her business uses a 22 x 13 room not enough space.

14.
She declined to answer concerning her income. She did state

that she has not been a photographer for income, but for the
love of it. She didnt have to worry about paying the bills to
support her family. She works part-time and schedules
appointments around her time.
II
Appendix D
John Kim Muchesko, Owner/Photographer
John Kim Muchesko Photography
129 Blawn Street
Johnstown, PA 15906
Interviewed March 15,2002 - telephone
1.
1995
2.

what and how long?
Olan Mills and various other photography jobs in Johnstown

from 1994 to 1996.
3.
ALP Art Institute of Pittsburgh - Photography

4.

12
Portraits, weddings, mostly everything

4a.
and why?
Portraits. Enjoys constantly thinking of new ideas for them.

5.

No challenges. Finds free time rewarding - hobbies and family.

6.

Equipment, training, stafftng, budget, advertising...)
Capital was the hardest , to buy equipment. He waited tables 5

years until established and also worked for another
photographer.
7.
January thru March is the off season. If he were to average it

out over 365 days a year he estimates maybe 30 hours per week
averaged.
8.

13
He said that if you can get a small business loan to start out
with he would recommend it. He said otherwise you can have a
lot of various other types of debt that add up trying to get
equipment and they are generally at higher rates. He mentioned
though when he was first starting out the banks didnt seem
very eager. Now that he has several years experience it is not a
problem.
9.
Medium only. Uses 35mm on occasion. No digital.

10.

Yes.
11.
Himself He feels that personality is everything. Being there at

the jobs is his best marketing tool. He does not use advertising.
He estimates that 95% of his business is through referrals and
maybe 5% from being listed in the Yellow pages.
12.
Personality is the #l piece of equipment. Camera. He replaces
14
his camera bodies every two years as his preventative

maintenance plan. He said by utilizing periodic replacement he
was not as worried about equipment failure and the having a
camera refurbished is so costly- he might as well buy a new one.
13.
He guesses about 500 sq. ft. He said that negative take up a lot
of room, but that he offers a package with weddings that after
purchasing so much in orders, he gives them the negatives and
that helps reduce the storage issue.
14.
Full time. Net Income is about $48,000. He admitted several

times throughout the conversation that hed probably make
more money took a stronger business approach about it.
15
Appendix E
Katrina Kilgallon, Owner/Photographer
Artistic Photography
13 Deep Pond Drive
Spring City, PA
19475
Interviewed April 1,2002- telephone
1.
5 years ago
2.

what and how long?
Photography editor for yearbook in college. Shot for other

photographers- weddings, for 5 years before starting own
business. Her mother (Kathy Hendricks, Wilmington, DE) has
a home based photography business that enabled her mother to
have a flexible schedule to stay at home with her as a child I had
called her mother first and her mother referred me to her
daughter Katrina.
3.
General experience. Took photography courses in college. She

has a major in small business entrepreneurship and a minor in
at.
4.
Weddings, some portraits. Also some commercial work for a

Real Estate agent shooting events for newsletter.
4a.
If you focus on more than one, which do you enjoy the

most and why?
Weddings. Likes it because it comes naturally. Does traditional

style as she called it - which when asked fixther she described
as formal poses.
5.

Challenge: doing it with young children. She has a 2 year old

and a 8 month old and also watches a 4 year old.
Big challenge is getting understand value of photography. For
17
f
people to understand that it is more than the cost of a roll of

film.
Rewards: seeing the finished product. She also gets the
flexibility to be a mom - so if its her daughters~birthday- she
can say no.
6.

Equipment, training, stafilng, budget, advertising...)
This is not her main income. She does sub contract work for
other photographers so she never had an exact start date.
Her business comes totally word of mouth. In past year did
about 25 weddings, half of which were sub contracting and the
other half for her own business.
7.
How many hours per week doesthis job require from you?
About 10 - 15 hours per week.

8.

She suggested a person start a base first...which when I asked

what she meant she explained that she thought someone should
I8
start out slow and if business went well and they wanted to
expand- then take out a loan, but get established a bit.
9.
She prefers medium format for weddings. Does not use digital.
Uses 35mm for the occasional commercial work for the Real
estate agent.
10.

Yes.
11.
What do you fmd to be your best marketing tool?
Referrals.
12.
Camera, good flash, film. A back up camera is not essential.

13.
She uses a closet and some other space. She estimates total
space about 5 fi x 5 ft.
14.
Part-time. Gross $10,000 estimate on her own business and net

about $3,000.
19
Appendix F
Businesses
Susan Whiting, Event Assistant

The City of Frederick Office of Special Events
4 West Seventh Street
Frederick, MD 21701
Interviewed by telephone both March 15,2002, and April 12,2002.
The Office of Special Events handled coordinating huge activities here in the
City of Frederick. They handle such events as 4* of July in Baker Park,
Garden Tours, Scents and Sweets, Home for the Holidays dance, In the Street,
Kris Kringle Procession, Candlelight House Tour- just to name the most
notable, so I called their office on March 15. I left a message for Susan
Whiting, who left me a voice message stating that they do sometime hire
professional photographers to do pictures and that pictures of the various
committees are taken by the newspaper.
I called Susan Whiting back on April 12,2002, because I needed Iinther
20
information form her, so I had the opportunity to ask hnther questions and
verify the information I had received on my answering machine. She said she
had been with the Office of Special Events for a year now and that they use the
photos taken by a professional photographer for publicity, brochures and
magazines. She said that they have a list of photographers that they call upon.
Sandy Lloyd
FSK Lincoln, Mercury, Audi, Isuzu of Riverside
1291 Riverbend Way
Frederick, MD 21701
Interview by telephone March 15,2002.
I spoke to Ms. Lloyd by telephone. She said that someone in-house uses a
digital camera to post pictures ofthe cars on the Internet. If a picture is
needed for a newspaper ad, then the newspaper sends out one of their
photographers and it is included in the price of the ad.
21
Terry Byrnes,
Administrative Assistant to Assistant V.P. of Marketing and Development
Frederick Memorial Hospital
400 W. Seventh Street
Frederick, MD 21701
Interviewed by telephone March 28,2002.
I spoke with Terry Byrnes by telephone on March 28,2002. Frederick

Memorial Hospital is one ofthe larger employers in Frederick County. She
said they have staRdo photography of basic presentations, but big events like
their Good Samaritan event- they hire a photographer. She said they utilize
local photographers.
Joseph Silovich, Lead Designer

Goodway Graphics
202 Perry Pkwy, Suite #6

Gaithersburg, MD 20877
22
Joe is a good friend of mine. Since I knew he worked with graphics, I gave
him a call to see what types of photography needs his company had. He said
that his company is an advertising agency. He said in order to keep costs
reasonable, they purchase stock photos off the Internet. They do not generally
hire photographers at his agency.
Brooke Buffbqgton, Church Secretary

Calvary Church
304 Lore Ave.

Wilmington, DE 19809
Brooke is my best tiiend. She is a graphic artist by training. She graduated

from Drexel University with a Fine Arts degree in 1992. At her former job in
Chantilly, Virginia she was in charge oftheir newsletters, annual report,
membership directory and worked on their annual convention. I asked about
her job title - and she could not remember it exactly off the top of her head.
But she did say that they bought stock photo CDs, She said if they needed
someones actual photo, then they sent them out to get a passport photo at the
23
mall or nearby film lab,
Brooke is currently the church secretary for her church in Wilmington, DE. I
asked her about the photographic needs at her church since they have an online
newsletter that is also printed as well. She said who ever has the digital camera
that day is taking the pictures- which means that they utilize people from
within to take their photos.
Troy Bayer, Sales Manager of Used Cars

Frederick Motor Company
One Waverley Drive
Frederick, MD 21702
I spoke with Mr. Boyer on March 28,2002, by telephone. He said that they
utilize a professional firm called Dealer Specialities which does everything for
them not just pictures but detailing of the cars and anything that is needed to
get the car ready to sell. Which also includes window labels and touch ups.
24
Appendix G
3/10/02 email
Former Bride survey- Melissa Ward

1.
What did you consider most important about your wedding

photos?
Inclusion of guests
2.
Was a tinal album important or portraits? Final album
3.
How long before your wedding date did you book,your

photographer?
4.
Did you find any obstacles in finding a photographer for your

wedding?
5.
6 months
No.
How did you find your wedding photographer? (i.e. Referral,

yellow pages, bridat show, advertising)
6.
Referral from a friend
What things did you consider important in a wedding

photographer for you? (i.e. price, availability, other..)
Price, style,
previous photos
7.
What did you want from your wedding photos? (i.e. Formals,
portraits, candid@
8.
a good mix of formal & candid shots,
Was format important to you? (35mm, medium, or digital) 351nm
25
9.
What other considerations did you contemplate about your
time at the event
wedding photography?
10.
Looking back, is there anything you would do differently about

your wedding photography?
no, we were very
satisfied.
26
Former Bride survey- Lori King
2/27/02
1. What did you consider most important about your wedding photos?
The quality of the photos

2. Was a final album important or portraits?
Both, thats why we chose a package that included both a small

wedding album and individual photos
3. HOW long before your wedding date did you book your photographer?
Two months prior to my wedding

4. Did you find any obstacles in finding a photographer for your
wedding?
The only obstacle I encountered was not being able to find a qualified
photographer in my own town.
5. HOW did you find your wedding photographer? (i.e. Referral, yellow
pages, bridal show, advertising)
Yellow pages
6. What things did you consider important in a wedding photographer
for you? (i.e. price, availability, other..)
27
Availability and quality of photos
Former Bride Survey- Melissa Castle- March 27,2002, emaii

1.
What did you consider most important about your wedding

photos?
Being able to have an adequate number of shots from which to choose

was very important. I wanted to have a wide range of both formal and
informal shots--so having a photographer that was flexible and
non-imposing was essential to achieving this goal.
2.
Was a final album important or portraits?
The actual album was not as important as the pictures themselves. Joe
and I received the proofs and the negatives from our photographer and
we ordered the final pictures &om another company--with whom our
photographer worked. Portraits were not even something that I
considered.
3.
How long before your wedding date did you book your
photographer?
We booked her a little less than a year in advance.

4.
Did you find any obstacles in finding a photographer

for your wedding?
29
Not really. Even though I felt that the photographs were

extremely important and I would expect to have paid good deal
for them, price was always a concern
5.
How did you find your wedding photographer? (i.e.Referral,

yellow pages, bridal show, advertising)
We were referred to her by a family friend. She was

breaking away from the larger company that she had
worked for to begin her own private business.
6.
What things did you consider important in a wedding

Personality of the photographer, price, being able to

keep our proof book
7.
What did you want from your wedding photos? (i.e.Formals,

portraits, candids)
I wanted a variety of shots. We did not have any

formal portraits taken, but having lots of candids and
formals to choose from was really important to me.
30
8.
Was format important to you? (35mm, medium, or digital)
I did not want digital, because the picture quality is not as crisp
as with a camera. Our photographer also use both color and
black and white film.
9.
What other considerations did you contemplate about

Not much other than the considerations that were stated earlier-personality, price, quality of previous shots, professionalism
10.
Looking back, is there anything you would do differently about

No. Even though she was a little disorganized in the very

beginning, she turned out to be highly professional and I was
very pleased with the shots that she took. The only negative
experience was that the company that developed the negatives
and generated the proofs did not process the black and white shots
correctly, so the entire roll was destroyed. The company
(separate from the photographer) did not even offer to
compensate us in any manner.
31
Future Bride survey- Denise Chavez - April 1,2002, email
What do you consider most important about your wedding
1.
photos?
I want a photographer I feel comfortable with, which is most

important to me. I have spoken to several and some did not
provide this comfort level. I also wanted to be able to discuss
what types of photos and how they were done, different from
the normal pictures you see in all the albums they show you.
2.
Js a final album important or portraits?
Portraits are more important to me personally. I want memories

that can be displayed and sent to family rather than sitting in an
album on a shelf
3.
Have you selected a photographer yet?
Even though my date is fast approaching I have not decided yet

I have been narrowing it down between two studios. I hope to
make a decision in the next weeks.
4.
Have you found or did you find any obstacles in finding a

photographer for your wedding?
32
,*
,.
Price ranges. I want a photographer for the ceremony and

family portraits before and after only. I am not interested in
having a photographer at the reception (Im just weird that
way), but I rather like the idea of having several family members
taking pictures and having table cameras for guests to take
photos. Photographers did not want to negotiate prices based
on this.
5.
If you already have found a photographer, bow did you find it?
(i.e. Referral, yellow pages, bridal show, advertising)
Bridal shows and personal references were the most helpful.

6.
What things do you consider important in a wedding

1) Comfort level with the photographer/studio that they will provide

you exactly what you request.
2) Price
3) Previous work examples and good referrals.

7.
What do you want from your wedding photos? (i.e. Formals,

portraits, candids)
Simple, clean pictures of myself and groom and then some

33
unique pictures of wedding party and the families

8.
Is format important to you? (35mm, medium, or digital)
Not really. I am not much of a photography buff

9.
What other considerations are you contemplating about your

I want a lot of black and white photos as part of my package.

It is also important to find a studio who would work with me
and my ideas (however strange they are) to only have a
photographer before, during and after the ceremony for more
formal pictures. I did not want informal professional pictures of
the reception. Also, someone who can make us look good!!!
34
New Bride survey- Jennifer 3116102

surveyed in person at Cindys Formals, 201 N. Market St, Frederick, Md
1.
Formals. Doesnt want candids
photos?
2.
Is a final album important or portraits?
Portraits.
3.
No.
4.
Have you found or did you find any obstacles in finding a

photographer for your wedding ? Havent found photographer yet
5.
If you already have found a photographer, how did you find it?
(i.e. Referral, yellow pages, bridal show, advertising)
Will use referrals or advertising.

6.

photographer for you? (i-e. price, availability, other..)
All three: Portfolio, price and availability.

I.
Formals
portraits, candids)
35
8.
Is format important to you? (35mm, medium, or digital)
Best color
9.

Different poses and particular shots of the bride.
36
New Bride survey Katbryn 3116102

surveyed in person at Cindys Formals, 201 N. Market St., Frederick, MD
1.
Candids
photos?
2.
Is a final album important or portraits?
Album
3.
No
4.
Have you found or did
YOU
find any obstacles in finding a
photographer for your wedding?

5.
Not Yet
If you already have found a photographer, how did you find it?
(i.e. Referral, yellow pages, bridal show, advertising) Referral
6.

photographer for you? (i.e. price, availability, other..) Portfolio
7.

portraits, candid@
AD Three: Formals, Portraits, and candids
8.
Is format
9.
impOhUIt t0 you?
(35mm, medium, or digital) Variety
wedding photography? Poses & memories
37
Appendix H
Mark Walls
Principal Planner I
Frederick County Planning Department
Winchester Hall
12 East Church Street
Frederick, MD 21701
Interviewed by both telephone and in person April 1,2002
I live in the Fredericktown Historic District in the City of Frederick in

Frederick County, Maryland. I originally thought that I only needed to find
out the home occupation restrictions for the county And it would have
continued that way had I not incorrectly documented my questions to, the
Phmning Department originahy. When I called the first time I asked they went
over all the classifications of home based businesses, but I did not get the name
and the title of the person I spoke with, so I had to start over. I called back on
April 1, 2002, and spoke with Mark Walls, Principal Planner I of the Frederick
3s
,
County Planning Department. Since I had taken the day off from work to
catch up with my research, when he offered to fax the literature to me- I
offered to walk down to Winchester Hail being that it is only a ~few blocks from
my house and I do not own a fax machine as well. What I found out at the
end of our conversation was that I needed to go talk with both the
Fredericktown Historic District and the City of Frederick because I reside in
both. Since I may move into the county in the next few years to give my son a
better school district, I am going to keep my notes on the county requirements.
If I lived in the county and I was only using my home as an office then there
would be no fee and I would fiili out a Home Occupation Permit Questionnaire
(part of this Appendix H).
If I had only one non-residential employee and with a limited number of vehicle
trips to the home for business purposes, excluding deliveries. The number of
vehicle trips allowed would depend on what type of road a home is served by.
A Home 0ccupation with Minor Impact would require a permit which I would
get from the Permits Department and would cost a one time fee of $30, which
would be good as long as I live at that residence.
39
Frederick County Planning DeDartment
Markialls
Principal Planner I
301-696-2945 (omce, 301-631-2327 (Fax)
Winchester Hzdi 12 East ClxxCh Streef
Frederick, Mwyiiad 2,701
E-Mail: mwalls@fredco.md~et
htfp:iiwww~c0.fredetickmdus
40
ZONING
$ l-19-198
Sec. 1-19-184. Temporary business signs.
Temporary business signs located on the property of the

business being advertised are permitted in any commercial
district without a permit, if the total allowable square footage for
all signs on the properly is not exceeded and all signs meet the
setback requirements for principal buildings on the same lot.
(Ord. No. 77-l-78, 8 40-46(D), l-24-77)
Sees. 1-19-185-l-19-195. Reserved.
DIVISION 7. ACCESSORY USES AND STRUCTURES

Sec. l-19-196. Definitions.
Accessory structures include garages, tool sheds, storage buildings, barns, signs, or other similar structures. An accessory
structure having any part of a wall in common with a dwelling is
considered part of the main building. A mobile home is not an
accessory structure, except as a tenant house on a farm.
(Ord. No. 77-l-78, 0 40-47(A), l-24-77)
Sec. 1-19-197. Location.
No accessory building will be erected within the required front

yard. No accessory structure will be erected within six (6) feet of
any rear or side lot lines or within six (6) feet of any building on
t h e l o t .
(Ord. No. 77-l-78, 40-47(B), l-24-77)
Sec. l-19-198. Accessory uses on residential properties.
(a) Customary accessory uses permitted on residential properties, include the following:
(1)
Accommodations for bona fide servants or guests, including unattached guest houses;
(2) Keeping of not more than nine (9) domestic animals;

however, a commercial stable or kennel is not an accessory use. Farm parcels are exempt from this limitation.
Supp. No. 36
1227
41
4 1-19-198
FREDERICK COUNTY CODE
(2a) Keeping of,farm animals in residential districts on a lot

containing three (3) acres or more provided no pens, stalls
or runs will be located closer than fifty (50) feet of any lot
line. (Ord. No. 79-19-145, 8-7-79)
(3) Recreation facilities, such as swimming pools or tennis
courts, located on residential lots, if the use of the
facilities is restricted to occupants of the principal use
and guests for whom no admission or membership fees
are charged, or such facilities occur on a lot adjoining the
principal use and both uses are under the same ownership.
(4) Domestic or agricultural storage in a barn, shed, tool
shed, or similar building or other structure;
(5) Home occupations:
(a) General home occupation standards. All home occupations shall comply with the following conditions:
There will be no exterior evidence, other than a
1.
permitted sign, to indicate that the building is
being used for any purpose other than that of a
dwelling or an accessory structure.
2. No retail sales or services, other than goods
grown, produced or assembled on the premises,
shall be conducted on the premises; however,
retail sales of products not produced on the
premises are permitted when these sales are
only incidental to and part of the primary
function of the business.
3. Additional off-street parking will be provided
in accordance with the requirements set forth
by use in section 1-19-168. Ifthere is a question
as to the use and corresponding parking, the
zoning administrator shall make the determination.
4.
The home occupation shall not cause any odor,
dust, smoke, vibration, noise, or electromagnetic interference, which can be detected at or
beyond the property line.
There will be no outdoor storage of equipment,
5.
material, or stock.
Supp. No. 36
1228
42
ZONING
6.
(b)
8 1-19-198
There will be no storage on the premises of

explosives or highly flammable or extremely
hazardous materials as defined by the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency.
7. The business must be conducted by a full-time
resident of the property
8. Home occupations located on properties utilizing a common drive shall be required to give
notice of home occupation use to adjoining
property owners by registered or certified mail.
9. Any interior structural alterations to accommodate the home occupation will require the issuance of a building permit.
Home occupatid with no impact. Home occupations with no impact are a permitted accessory use
upon completion of home occupation survey form in
the planning and zoning office. Home occupation
owners must comply with the general home occupation standards and the following conditions:
No more than five (5) business-related vehicle
1.
visits per week at the premises, excluding
delivery vehicles, are permitted when the business is located on a local roadway as specified
in the comprehensive plan. When located on a
collector roadway, no more than five (5) businessrelated vehicle visits per day at the premises,
or no more than twenty (20) per week, whichever is greater, excluding delivery vehicles, are
permitted. There will be no limit on the number of business-related vehicle visits to a residence when located on an arterial roadway.
Deliveries are only permitted by public or private delivery services that customarily make
residential deliveries.
No nonresident employees (full-time or part2.
time) are permitted to work on the premises.
No more than six hundred (600) square feet of
3.
an accessory structure may be used for busi1229
supp. No.36
43
5 1-19-198
FREDRICK COUNTY CODE
ness purpases. There is no Zm+t to the amount

ofsqnare fbotage which can be utilized within
the pr%cipaLstxu&um provided &he home occupation retnabs incidental in the reskhfid
afxk 4%~ parcek of teq (101 acres or-greater in
size, the size of accessory structures to be used
may be en&aged by special exception afler
giving due consideration to setbacks, size and
k& ef structure, and its impact on the
adjoining properties.
4.
More than one home occupation with no impact
rn$jr be conducted on the &-en&es; however,
the txnnbkd business-related- impact of the
home occupations shall not exceed the limits
established in items WW-43) above.
5.
No impact home occupations may be permitted in all types of residential structures.
Home occupation with minor impact. Home occupations with minor impact muat nbtain a zoning
certiiicate through%he permii a.& %spections office- Hameuccupatien awneramustcomply wi&h the
general homf.accupation stan&r& in subsection
GXa) and the following conditions:
1. No more than two (2) business-related vehicle
visits perday nar trtsre* ten4101 visits per
week at the premises, excluding delivery vebick?s,areg3esmwA~the~sinessislocated on a local roadway as specified on the
e. plaa When located on a colIectar roadway, no more than five (5) businessrelated vehicle visits per day at the premises,
or no more thantaven~&W per we& whichever is greater, excluding delivery vehieles, are
permitted.TherewiQbenohmitonthenumber of business-related vehicle visits to a residence- when located on en aAerial roadway.
Deliveries are only permitted by public or private delivery services that customarily make
1230
Supp. No. 36
44
ZONING
2.
.Q 1-19-198
No more than one nonresident employee (fulltime or part-time) is permitted to work on the
premises.
3. In residential and conservation zoned parcels,
no more than six hundred (600) square feet of
an accessory structure may be used for home
occupation purposes. This square footage may
increase to one thousand two hundred (1,200)
square feet in the agricultural zone and on lots
over five (5) acres in the Resource Conservation
(RC) zone. There is no limit to the amount of
square footage which can be utilized within the
principal structure provided the home occupation remains incidental to the residential use.
For parcels of ten (10) acres or greater in size,
the size of accessory structures to be used may
be enlarged by special exception after giving
due consideration to setbacks, size and location
of structure and impact on the adjoining properties .
4.
More than one home occupation with minor
impact may be carried out on the premises;
however, the combined business-related impact
of the home occupations shall not exceed the
limits established in items (c)(l)-(3) above.
5.
Home occupations with minor impact shah be
permitted within townhouse, condominium, multiplex or apartment dwellings except that vehicle visits shall be limited to the hours between 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.
(6) Professional offices which:
(a) Are located in the same building as the domicile of
the professional practitioner or in an accessory structure existing as of March 28, 1997; and
(b) Do not employ more than two (2) assistants; and
(c) Do not substantially change the character or appearance of the dwelling or accessory structure.
(7) The rental of rooms to no more than two (2) persons by a
resident family
Supp.
No.
1231
36
45
8 1-19-198
(8)
FREDERICK COLJNTY CODE
Radio or television antenna.
(9) The parking of no more than two (2) school buses driven
by resident(s).
.-..~..-=.-sG>.___
v L;=2:
-7-q
(b) An accessory structure shall be limited in size when

located on a residentially zoned property to the following:
1.
The total square footage of all floors of the accessory

structure shall not exceed that of the dwelling,
2.
The footprint of the accessory structure may not exceed

the greater of (i) one-half of the footprint of the principal
dwelling or (ii).six hundred (600) square feet, and
The square footage allowed for business purposes in an

accessory structure shall be six hundred (600) square
feet.
(Ord. No. 77-l-78,6 40-47(C), l-24-77; Ord. No. 79-19-145,8-7-79;
Ord. No. 80-24-176, 8-26-80; Ord. No. 92-19-054, 8-18-92; Ord.
No. 94-28-123, 12-8-94; Crd. No. 95-28-152, 12-5-95; Ord. No.
97-05-183, 3-18-97; Ord. No. 98-02-204, 2-3-98)
3.
Sec. 1-19-199. Farm tenant houses.
Farm tenant houses are permitted as accessory structures on a

farm as follows: Twenty-five (25) acres to fifty (50) acres, one
tenant house, thereafter one tenant house per fifty (50) acres.
(Ord. No. 77-l-78, 0 40-47(D), l-24-77)
Sec. l-19-200. Commercial and industrial districts.
Customary accessory uses are permitted in commercial or

industrial districts, including the following:
(1) Vending machines.
(2)
The storage of goods normally carried in stock, used in, or

produced by commercial or industrial uses, unless the
storage of particular goods is prohibited under the district
regulations.
(3) Incidental repair facilities, unless expressly prohibited

under applicable district regulations.
Supp. No. 36
1232
46
--.
.~ .l
-1-L
lS
..a
..-
.C___
DEPARTMENTOFPL&GAM)ZO~G
F~REDERKK~oUI\SI'Y,MAR~-LAND
Winchester Hail 12 Eart church Street
HOME OCCUF'ATXON
Frederick Cow, Mary&d 21701
(301) <gbiIjd
INFORMATION SFlEET - SAVE mS FOR YOUR &COWS
Section l-19-4 -ROME O%UEAlTON: Any ocqupation or business use conducted entirely within a dweIIing or
an accessory structure or both by a resident of the property, and which is cIearIy incidenta.I to the residential use
of the building, excIuding: antique shops, boarding or rooming houses or tourist homes; commercial repair or
storage of automobiles, watercraft, or other motor vehicles, commercial stabies, kennels, and nurseries; mortuary
establishments; professional off&s; restaurants or tea rooms.
Section l-19-198(5) (A): Ail Home Occupations shall comply with the following conditions:
(1)
There wiU be no exterior evidence, other than a permitted s$n, to indicate that the building k being used
for any purpose other than that of a dwelIing or an accessory stnicture,
(2)
No retail sales or services, other than goods grown, produced or assembled on the premises, shaII be
conducted on the premises; however, retail Saks of products not produced on the premises are permitted
when these sales are onIy incidental to and part of the primary function of the business.
(3)
Additional off-street parking wiII be provided in accordance with the requirements set forth by use in
Section 1-19-168 of the Ordinance. If there is & question as to the use and corresponding parking, the
Zoning Administrator shall make the determination.
(4)
The home occupation shall not cause any odor, dust, smoke, vibration, noise, or electromagnetic
interference which can be detected at or beyond the property line.
(3
There wiI1 be no outdoor storage of equipment, materia1 or stock
(6)
There will be no storage on the premises of explosives or highly flammabie or extremely hazardous
materiaIs as defined by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

(7)
The business must be conducted by a full-time resident of the property.
(8)
Home occupations located on properties utilizing a common drive shall be required to give notice of home
occupation use to adjoining property owners by registered or certified mail. Proof of notification is
required.
(9)
Any interior structural aIterations to accommodate the home occupation will require the issuance of a
building permit
Section l-19-183(5) - HOME OCCUPATION STGNS:

.
.
.x1
If a ResidentiaI Zone, one sign, two square feet maximum, attached to the strdcture;
._
..-.
..-
..-
.-.
_ . . . _ _ _ __ _._ _ _
lfan AgricuIturaI or Conse,yation Zone, one sign, six square feet maximum - Setback as foIIows: Front
yard-30 feet,Sici;; lOfeet;RearilO feet -.. .. - -..-.-..-..- .: .._ :_ ._._ _
_
.-~:.~~-I I
47
b
.
.\
...
1.
__.
..,,..
.- *
Based on the responses given on the Home Occupation Questionnaire, your home occupation can be classified BS me.
having:
- NO IMPACT
MINOR IMPACT
Please note the description of each category below:
HOME OCCUPATION WITH NO IMPACT
Section 1-19-198(5)(B): Home Occupations with No Impact are a permitted accessory use upon completion of the
home occupation survey form in the Pluming and zoning Office Home occupation owners must compIy with the
genera1 home occupation standards and the folIowing conditions:
(1)
No more than five business-reh&d vehicIk visits per week at the premises, excluding dehvery vehicles are
permitted when the business is located on a IocaI roadway as specified in the Comprehensive Plan. &en
located on a collector roadway, no more than five business-related vehicle visits per day at the premises
or no more than 20 per week, whichever is greater, excIuding detivery vehicles, are permitted. There w$
be no limit on the number of business-related vehicle visits to a residence when located on an arterial
roadway. Deliveries are dnIy permitted by public or private delivery services that customarily make
(2)
No non-resident employees (full-time or part-time) are permitted to work on the premises.
(3)
No more than 600 square feet of an accessory structure may be used for business purposes. There is no
limit to the amount of square footage which can be utilized within the principal structure provided the
home occupation remains incidental to the residential use. For parcels of ten acres or greater in size, the
size of accessory structures to be used may be enlarged by special exception after giving due consideration
to setbacks, size and location of structure and i$ impact on the adjoining properties.
(4)
More than one home occupation with NO Impact may be conducted on the premises; however, the
combined business-related impact of the home occupations shaI1 not exceed the limits established in (B) l-3
above.
(5)
No Impact home occupations may be permitted in a11 types of residential structures.

HOM-E OCCUPATION WITH MINOR IMPACT
Section 1-19-198(5)(C): Home Occupations with Minor Impact must obtain a Zoning Certificate through the
Permits and Inspections Offrice. Home occupation owners must comply with the genera1 home occupation
standards in Subsection 1-19-198(5)(A) and the foilowing conditions:
(1)
No more than two business-related vehicIe visits per day nor more than ten visits per week at the premises,
excluding dehvery vehicles, are permitted when the business is located on a LocaI roadway as specified on
the Comprehensive Plan. When located On a coIIector roadway, no more than five business-related vehicle
visits per day at the premises, or no more than 20 per week, whichever is greater, excluding deIivery
vehicles, are permitted. There WiII be no limit on the number of business-related vehicle visits to a
residence when located on an arterial roadway. Deliveries are only permitted by public or private delivery
services that customarily make residential deliveries.
(2)
No more than one nonresident employee (full-time or part-time) i,s permitted to work on the premises.
(3)
In Residential and.Conservapn-zoned parcels, no~trprc than 600 square feet of an accessory structure
may be used for home occupatron PUqOSeS. This square footage may increase to 12th) square feet in the
Agricultural zone. .There is no limit to. the amount of square footage which can be utiI&d within the
For parcefs..
principal structure provided the home occupation remains incidental
to: the. reside&a1
.
. . . .- -....use
j. :-
48
b
_.
.:_,:
.
:
__..__
.-. ._ -d...m/..p
of ten acres or greater in size, the size of accessory structures to be used may be enlaqed by special
exception after giving due consideration to setbacks, size and loution of $-ucture and impact on the
adjoining properties.
More than one home occupation with Minor Impact may be carried out on the premises; however, the
combined business-related impact of the home occupations shall not exceed the limits established in (c) l-3
above.
Home occupations with Minor Impact shall be permitted within townhouse, condominium, multiplex or
apartment dwellings except that vehicle visits shaU be limited to the hours between 7:OO a.m. and 6:00 ,p.m.
49
HOME OCCUPATION PERMIT Date
PLEASE PRINT OR TYPE
QUESTIONNAIRE
Permit # HOIName of Applicant
I
Telephone #
Address of Property
Name of Property Owner
What is the business name of the Home Occupation?
What is the type of business
YOU Will
be conducting?
Are there any other home occupations at this location?

How many business related vehicle visits will be made to the property each week? _
What products or services will be made or provided on the property?
WIII there be any retail sales on the property?
If so what will be sold?
Will the home occupation be located in the residence or an accessory structure?

If an accessory structure is used, what is the total square footage of the building?
How many square feet will be used for the home occupation?
How many non-resident employees will be working at this address?
will there be any outdoor storage used for this home occupation? if so explain
WIII you be posting any signs or advertising on the property?

Do you have a private or common driveway?
What are the hours of operation?
Date
Signature
,.....~~~,.~~~.~..~.........~....~.....~.~.............................~...~.~~.~~~
For Office Use Only
Tax ID Number
No Impact
Minor Impact
Approved By
Tax Map #
Parcel #
Lot #
Road Classification
Reason not granted
50
Lot size
Zoning District
Parking Requirements l-l 9-l 68

Date
Appendix I
Timothy Davis, Planner
City of Frederick
City Hall
101 North Court Street
Frederick, MD 21701
Personal Interview in his office April 1,2002.
Since I live in the Fredericktown Historic District of Frederick City, I

discovered while talking with Mark Walls of Frederick County Planning
Department that I needed to go to City Hall. Since I live in what is just
commonly referred to as the Historic District, I have had to deal with City
Hall several times- so I knew exactly which cubicle to go to. So my first stop
was the third floor cubicle of Barbara Wyatt who handles all the Historic
District stuff. I had been to see her only a few weeks ago to find out if1 could
replace my gutters - so I inquired of her who should I speak to. She made a
few phone calls and walked me over to the cubicle of Tim Davis. He said that
currently my zoning designation is R-4, which is medium density residential.
51
,
The only other thing allowed besides a house like mine, is a church or school.
He said I could have a home occupation with one employee, but I could not
have any customer visits and I would have to make sure that all deliveries were
scheduled so that I was there to receive them. We discussed how ridiculous
this is considering how many deliveries anyone could get from ordering from
Lands End or QVC. He said I would be required to submit an application to
the Board of Zoning Appeals. This application would be for,a special
exception for a home occupation. I would submit application to the Zoning
Department, they would review it, create a stafFreport, Id have to post a sign,
and there would be a public hearing,for the decision. He gave me the forms
and applicable code as well. They are part of this Appendix I.
52
i%OTH, p. DAVE
Ph?lCT
icl NodI Courr seer, Frcdcri& Mrry,ad 21,01.i415

301-694.1884 . Fax: 30,.360.1843
e-d rd;~rii,~~iryoiiicdericltcom * ~,,.cirva((redeiictcllm
53
5PECI fiL- E~KcE?rT~tv! C_G?Al-gIZ/l~

Gv How-L DccJS,~~ti..S
and not result in any activity which will detract from the residential
character of a neighborhood.
(11)
Home occupations may be permitted in all R, all D and all B districts provided
that all of the following conditions and requirements are met:
(4
The applicant must provide guarantees as deemed necessary by the Board

that the use of a property as a home occupation will not constitute a
nuisance because of increased pedestrian or vehicular traffic noise, or
other activity associated with the use of the dwelling for business purposes
which may be disruptive to the residential character of the neighborhood.
(b)
A home occupation must be secondary to the residential use of the

property and shall be conducted totally within the dwelling. Not more
than 20% of the floor area of the dwelling or 300 sq. ft., whichever is
greater, may be devoted to a home occupation. The business use shall be
confined to one floor of a dwelling.
(cl
Only one person who is not a resident of the dwelling may be employed in
conduct of a home occupation.
(4
A home occupation may not result in any external evidence that a building
is being used for any purpose other than a dwelling. There shall be no
separate entrance designated or the home occupation.
Except for the permitted employee who may be employed, a home
occupation may result in no vehicular traffic and in no case shall result in
delivery by trailer trucks.
If deemed appropriate, the Board may permit a home occupation or a
specified period of time within periodic review and approval required to
ensure conformity with the conditions and requirements.
(12)
Tourist homes or bed and breakfast homes may be permitted in all districts except
M districts provided all of the following conditions and requirements can be met:
(a)
The applicant must provide guarantees as deemed appropriate by the

Board that the property is adequate for the proposed use and that the use of
a particular property for a tourist home or bed and breakfast home will not
constitute a nuisance because of increased vehicular traffic, noise, odor or
any other activity associated with the use which may be disruptive to the
residential character of the neighborhood.
@I
No more than one such use shall be permitted per block or closer than 500
ft. to another such se.
54
b
.citylw:
Fjy&$i&
Phnning Depwrmcnr * IO1 N. Court Street * Frederick Mmyl~~nri 2/ 701 * 201.6911499
BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS

SPECIAL EXCEPTION APPLICATION
Please legibly print or type the fallowing applicarion inih.5enrirery. lpcompiere appiicarianr willnotbeaccepred.
Submitthe twelw (11) copier ofthis applicarion, and my rupporlin; infomadon. along wirh appropriaefees. by
ml pm afthe applicarian deadline *are.
AFPLICANT INFORMATION -OWNERS AFF~DAWT MUST OE SUBWTTED W,IX AWL,CAT,ON.
Contact Name:
Firm/Company:
Address:
Phone:
OWNER INFORMATIOH
emaii:
NiVlX
Firm/Company:
Address:
Phone:
email:
AL
EXCEPTION
gs<rir~~ Pimm~j,r The ciry *fFrcf~rrck
55
li/ / .ip.c,,,, LiC~C, I,h,i ,,,,,

PROJECT INFORWIATION
Project Location:
(Smcr Addra)
Current Zoning:
Cumnr use:
FEES
Type of Review
Fee
I
Special Erceprio HOme occuparian
$75.00
All other Speciai Elcetlrians
I
Ri
JUSTIFICATION FORSPECIAL EXCEPTION
TOG31
Section 9. I, stoics !hm The Board o/Zoniy qprals mny mrhorizc r,,ec;cr, c.rceprio,,s ic[i,d<d ;,,
Seciion 5 ofrhis Ordinance only when rhr Eoardfindr thot the follorving condiiions &isr. "
Blem mpond IO r&-c* co"dioon .SI~LlmF"l h he ore" #m"lrd-I,.,P dmiand paper ,qneccmav.,
I; The proposed use is in hammy with the purpose and intent ofrbe Co~mprehensive Plao vlld rbis
Zoning Ordinance.
2. The characteristics of dle use and its operatim on ibe properry iI, quesrion and in relation IO adjacent
properties wiU anof creatc~nny grea~r adverse impacr tlnn the operation o.f any permimed use tnor
requiring special exception approval.
3. That dx proposed activity \viii comply will1 all conditions and requireme~ns set fonb in Section 5 of
this Ordinance.
All correrpandence will be XI to the npplicanr. If dx OWST alsO wisher to receive a copy. piea5se check box:
I hereby attest that the information provided an and attached to this application is complete and correct
Sigmtuie of AppiicantlA~ent
Dare
56
Appendix J
Brian Kennedy, Verizon Yellow Pages
He returned my call in to their call center on February 27,2002. We talked
about the various pricing of photographers in the 2001 Yellow Pages. I have
included copies of pages 444 and 445 in this Appendix which we went over in
our conversation. He said that Verizon bills the cost of adverting over twelve
months onto your monthly phone bill. The rates vary by which phone book
you have your ad and number published in. A basic bold listing is $15.75 per
month and to add a web page address is an additional $5. Since all of the ads
had different features added I took notes based on the name on the ad. Notes
were as follows:
Roils of Film
$90 per month
Photographic Solutions
$188 per month
Youngblood Studios
$182 per month
Davis Studio
$292 per month
Allens
$253 per month
Harriet Wise (in alphabetical column) $38 per month

Personal Touch
$90 per month

57
=.r..rYWIIwY
*OINH*.I, P4!AV~
CONfEPTs
pee e... ~~~~~~~~. ~.~. ~~~ . . . . . . o,~cIIl, PHOTOGRAPHER
10, a9.118,
;%~;&~[
-..__.l
l.l_ -~ ,
r-i
Im_M,m
IVccuMEe~.hLU,P
<ALE.,,,,
~.~~ 30, W.630
194Elm2 wi6lwuux
ynn*linuulddlmm----------,o,l,,-6JP!
q WlWCl(u
*et+
~~~~
*I w8.028i
P~1(85,~~----------.-.~1M+~ Lawr,o.p-*
ALLENS im
MjlvylW mhM----------.Jo,655-u*,
+wwlGl~
PHOT~Y
m-amPd
c~~~-~;lJp-u51
w
woI0B-m
--_1~~~~-3016bl-8 *mmkL~~*lr~~ - .m 9As.ms -..!
R?Rd ___ _._ ____
RoTwR*pwIwwmYs
mrlaw~~n*:-LESSER TOM PHOTOGRI\PY
M.?Wild uI**.--
,n, e.._. .!!??.x~~-~~---~:JY1 -c-w= I caa?EW~ .~&U_.IPAsrnY_ 1
~~~~IN..~,~~...u-TanT.hn.M~~
*DYn My9 rm u WI1 nw 00 I $$z-...-, .__ _._ _-- .-.. ._ ,...
Wdlw,#~m,,m~*.laRa
-~~ I_.-.-~._.,.
-. ,^, -.- %*now:
Dcy
txWDI
.~~
-l=l*.nUU--.-..._-_Y
.m*?t? _.a....
EXCHANGLINC
a*---301 z31-7su
FEE&Z
t!iZZ-l
wP7985w
) ALLENS PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPH

mc1ALmw IN
Y
coHsfRucnow
.
WMMEACULL
. ARCHIT\
I
f!Y
2&&E,
AERIAL - PHOTO JOURNALlSM

PORTRAIT- WEDDING
:.
FtNSICAL FIlllESS
sEmEAlnl CLUBS
58
PHOTOGRAPHERS 445 p
1216 , , 5,c, 10 ,>,am sc/,Rs ,m. 2001

JS[
PWITOGRaP 8 WLf-CanCd
FTw*D(ot*
4w Fmde/ln 10169*-7m
lift ~asm~t~wnPi~
no116 Of Film
b~0)~lirn(l,~Nlll~1IP*r
c,dtntkMD~...~~~~~
~~.~~~~~~~
~~~~30147,.87M
RUE&EN P0wGwPI
I
Dimal 8 Tramanal
1 .c&ate. Indsnial
. Ldeslyk , Port,ailYre, PrOdUCt
/m,ll
~~~~~~~~ 30, *1qln
fm* Bum PHOmGRAPEm at--j
--,. _,....I_... _..- .__
NArnNAU I(Now a RECOGN1ZED
mcEcNRAl . I-RIAL
i
,fnEn~c.s&GAL,
~1
a,
81(.m2
wise Hmet mww**ler
P,wo,/,,9 aurBVdY II weunaa
i 101 IUO,,6, RO#e,kk ----WI MZ.612, M~canel.mlyWyw
Pmul&lntb
LIm.z+Iwst EmTLwn---------- 30.447-6272
GRFFrnS
hnBdlie.- PwToGRAPnY(10 n5.m
HAL NOEN
FtlOTOSNAPHY
Middl.,ow-------- 301 371-4%x8
huauNs wmmT*t&-mL 416.7302
wE*m-Q
59
Appendix K
Paye I of 2
Frederickcorn JoinPage
Join Frederick.com!
.$b
(=-cc:
yg
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*ma, rnd Lhcdd be an integral part of your marketing SaawlY.
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hnp:/lh~~~.frederickcomimisdjoinarp7Eite=I I
60
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Weip Termi oihmce Gdeliner iegai Dlrr!a,meri
Plivacy Policy
62
Appendix L
Cynthia Baker
Michael Himmel
Community Oflice Sales Manager
Commercial Loan Officer
Farmers & Mechanic National Bank
Fredericktown Bank
Corporate Lobby
30 N. Market Street
110 Thomas Johnson Drive
Frederick, MD 21701
Frederick, MD 21703
I spoke with two local banks in Frederick, MD, by telephone on February 25,
2002, Farmers & Mechanics National Bank (F&M Bank) and Fredericktown
Bank
Cindy Baker of F & M Bank said that every small business loan is different and
varies from business to business. She mentioned home equity loans as a way of
financing. I tried to ask her about other types of loans, but she seemed to be in
the direction of personal loans even though I had explained that it would be for
63
a home based photography business start up to purchase equipment and

purchase necessary advertising. She mentioned the various types o businesses;
sole proprietorship and partnership. When she did not mention an
incorporated business start-up, I asked. She said that if the business were
incorporated then the business would be receiving a personal loan on its
books from the person who signed for the loan. Meaning that whomever
obtained the loan would still be personally liable. She stated that there was a
$100 application fee and that a business plan, financial statements, and
personal credit history would be reviewed for the loan. It was emphasized that
prior experience in the field of work and amount of personal assets being
invested in the start-up as well would be major factors in the decision process
to determine the loan. F&M Bank is a preferred SBA (Small Business
Administration) lender. Afler going over my notes with her she added that
personal finances would be reviewed, but may or may not be a personal or
business loan. She said they would look at the whole business and the type of
business and industry. She said it is very common for a person to fimd a
business start-up personally. She said that it is rare that a new business startup can accurately narrow down the target market and accurately estimate cash
flow- where as a business with 2- 3 years in business has that ability She said
64
that new business plans are only projections and are not realistic. She
recommends new small businesses go to the Small Business Development
Center. I read the final addition back to her and she said yes.
Mike Himmel of Fredericktown Bank. He said that there were no preset rates
or parameters, that every loan application would be reviewed individually. He
said the necessary paperwork would be a business plan, resume and financial
statements. He too emphasized personal type loans. He mentioned that a
small business loan applicant should probably contact the SBA to obtain help in
preparing a business plan and find out information on SBA loans.
65
Appendix M
Bonnie Fuss, Deputy Clerk for the Clerk of the Court
Frederick County Courthouse
100 W. Patrick St.
Frederick, MD 21701
Interviewed by telephone March 28,2002
I spoke to Ms. Fuss over the phone. I explained what I was inquiring about.
A home based photography business. She asked if I would be selling film or
empty frames. I said no. She said since the photos would be in the albums
or frames, that I would not need a Traders License to conduct business. She
also suggested I speak with the State Licensing Bureau as well to verify.
Michael Frome, Offke Clerk II

State License Bureau
Louis Goldstein Treasury Building
80 Calvert Street
Annapolis, MD 21404
66
Interviewed by telephone March 28,2002. (410)260-6240
I spoke with Mr. Frome on March 28,2002, by telephone. He said that as

long s I was not selling film or empty frames and as long a the pictures are part
of the package- then I would not need a Traders License.
67
Appendix N
Mary Duvall, Receptionist
Frederick County Chamber of Commerce
43-A South Market Street
Frederick, MD 21701
Interviewed by telephone March 28,2002. (301)662-4164
I spoke with Ms. Duvall on March 28,2002. She stated that the Chamber of
Commerce is a non-profit organization, The Frederick chapter was the first
chartered in the United States and they are about to celebrate their 40m
anniversary. The goal ofthe Chamber of Commerce is to promote business.
What the Chamber does is up to the membership. They hold monthly meeting
and business card exchanges. They sponsor seminars and roundtable
discussions for small businesses. The membership dues are $3 IO for a sole
owner and one employee. $341 for two to five employees, and that includes
two representative listed in the database.
68
Pa&e I of 3
Benefits1
Appendix 0
WA !zaa?d
AbW WA
AfO!iG?&W2
eeneats a
MC?n?bec;hip
Aeplicat@ns
B!lg~~~i~~&$iv,~
Business serrrices
wer&i
For complete Benefits information please

refer to the Member~!&z!S?oqk. 350k Adobe
Acrobat file.
~~~~~~~~~~at~o~ Errors 8 Omissions

Trust
A sort of malpracace coverage for proessional
photographers. PPAs Indemnification Trust is the only
program of its kind. In fad, it is so unique that other nonphotographic associations are hying to build similar
programs for their members. This benetit alone more than
pays for the cost of membership.
CFdiflCdO
Chat
cammmn~ a
Awards
Cwtact WA
CopyriQht
&inmWine WY!
Download an
application
Membe&~e
AppaWW
canaa_n
Membershie
Appkaipo
Wathnal A,dvertiSsing suppos%

PPA is the only organization to engage in a national brand
awareness program for professional photography. The
Staytellers Campaign is generating about lOgo referras a
month for our photograpers. As a member. you have
ban&ted from a $1 million advertising campaign. Again.
ibis program alone more man pays for me cost of
lll~lllb~~hip.
Distance,!&arnim
Qowj~oad~ZQne
iiherit and D e g r e e P r o g r a m
Eln_a!l~i&W!&CX,
c?PA-Nex?l
Professional Photographers of Americas Degree Program

is offered to PPA members in all specialties. Created in
1937. the degree program is Uw oldest of PPAs
educationat programs. Merits are earned toward degrees,
and are recorded and kept on file in each active membee
record at PPA to accumulate toward a degree.
!!a&W meEw/
Join NOW!
list sew Email Lists
Merits &Degrees
me program helps afiliate organizations attract program

talent and encourages individuals to learn. achieve and be
recognized by tMir peers Only PPA members can earn
merits.
motg Eyx
Certification
IviemLler Handbook
WA Charities
whos Who Membel
Directory
Today, mw? than ever, consume~j are demanding proof

of expertise before purchasing. PPAs Certtficatian
program gives you the chance to distinguish yourwlf from
the competition. if You arenttakina advantage. you are
3/l 512002
hap:Nwww.ppa.com/public/articles/index.cfm?4~
69
Page ? of 3
Bell&S1
Gei f$$&j
missing your best opportunity to standOt. Findoufmore

$&ut&ecominq WA c&?tieb
Events $ Educatiao
You woni believe the NEW PPA! Now we offer a slate of
the most high-powered conferences and educational
opportunities anywhere! And because we are your onprofit association, PPA can give you more of the biggest
speaken anywrhare,at just a fraction af the what you would
pay those alher guys for. PowerToab. DigitalPower and
Imaging USA are sure to be the biggest photography
events in North America. And now PPA is offering male
on-line education. Of course. by registering on-line. you
can save money on all ofthem! Take a look at upcoming
Events a EdK&xL
CQpJiight FW.r2GtiOfl
PPA is the industrys leader in copyright protection. PPA
provides its members with a copydght kit and education an
how to protect their copyrights. If you think your rights are
being violated. PPA is there to step in with advice on what
steps to take. In some cases. PPA will intervene to assist
membem in how to handle copyright crjses. Get ~ogyriht
information.
M e m b e r Insura-3nce Bciner?ts
PPA members get the best coverage in the business!
Whether you need equipment insurance. he& coverage.
or our new 6lnvir&ansit Insucanw., we have you covered.
And again, because we are your non-profit association,
we do it at the best rates available.
Seabwv & Smit? !nsrance Online
Seabury 8 Smiti, Insurance has recently developed a
spedal interactive web site to better serve the insrance
needs of Professional Photographers fAmeda
Association members Seabury d Smith.
Purchasing the marketing assistance you receive as a

PPA member would cost you thousands of dollars a year.
Yet. every member receives a marketing kit, including
prepared drop-in advertisements and Storytellers logo
slicks. All you have to do is drop in your studio name and
send them wt. Members also receive the Marketing Guide
for Professional Photographers. a quarteriy newsletter
offering tips on getfing the most out of your marketing
effort. Visit~~~rna~~eti~_~~o~~q~~~~~~o~t~.g~~
mying Power
3115/2002
B=Sl&Sl
Pqe3of3
As a WA member. YOU can purchase goods and sewices

like the big boys! WA continuously negotiates discount
rates for its members. Among UE deals you get are:
l
discounted marketing and direct mail consulting

and services
. express delivery
. merchant services program
e long distance service
. have! discounb
e discount of,ke supplies
. car rental discoun,s
Home, Back to Top

Professional Photc!3raphePs afA.metica 1C.. 229 Peachtree St. NE, suite 2200, Atlanta, GA 30303
VW 52x600 cxc@PP~;corn ieim5 OfJse 0 *ooo.*oo,
3/15/2002
71
WA hr just $20 per

Thas isnt 2 misprint. Now you cm pay your PPA dues on ii monthly basis - giving you more
control of your studio cash flow. Heres how it works:
Under the PPA Dues Installment Plan. your major credit card will be charged each month for a
ponion of your regular dues. The lirst payment will include the indemnification fee antior
ceniiication fee (if applicable). Personal checks are not accepted for the initisl payment or
monthly payment amount. The remaining 11 installments will he for membership dues only.
Your monthly payment is dctcnnincd by your membership category and your participation in PPAs
Indemnification Trust progmm. Plcase consult the Foliowing table to see your monthly payments:
Initial payment
Professional Active
Next 11 monthly Payments
$73.08
$23.08
$23.08
$23.08
$62.67
$12.67
$12.67
$12.67
$14.75
$14.75
(With Indemnitication)
Professional Active
(Without Indemnification)
Aspiring
(With indemnification)
(Please see application for restrictions)
Aspiring
(Without indemnification)
(Please see application for restrictions)
I~tWIldIOtKll
$64.75
$14.75
International
(With indemnification,
Note: Indemniiication is only available to members in the US, US Territories, and Canada)
If you would like to participate in this program just complete the enclosed form PPA will make the
initial charge to your credii card on Ihe 15 or 31 of the month, depending on when the information
is received and processed. The remaining I I installments will be charged on the 15Lh of the month, or
last working day prior to that date. If for some reason we are unable to process the monthly charge
on the l5, we will attempt again on the 3l, or the last working day prior to the 31. A charge from
PPA will appear on your monthly credit card statement, this will act as your receipt. At the end of a
yeais membership we will notify you of any dues or membership changes and automatically renew
your membership in PPA. If you wish to resign from PPA. you may do so at any time in writing, by
fax or by e-mail. Please note that c-mail resignations must he from the e-mail address contained in
your member record, and include your name and PPA ID number. Payments charged prior to your
resignation are nonrefundable. As a participant in this program, you agree to inform PPA of any
changes in your credit card information, such as a chnngc to your account number or expiration date.
If we am unable to successfully make a charge to your credit card, PPA will contact you. After three
unsuccessful attempts to process il monthly charge, your membership wili bc considered void.
72
www.~pa.mm
Serviiee
Center:
666/786-6277
ACCESSINGYOURBENEFIIS
sErMcEcENlER
PPAS service cx?nter f?IlSUreF that youll
get the attention you need. call (800)
7866277, Monday-Friday. from 9:00 am.
- 6:OO pm. Eastern Tune and your quest
will be handled by a customer service
qresentativemesehlghlybalned
representatives are familial with almost
all qecer of the association. and are
exxpe* at meeting your needs
lfyouneedtocallPPAatnightonaweekend or a holiday. PPAs 24-how voice mail
syskmwiUbetheretotakepurmes3gc
socdleofcdlrrepramtativEscangetba~
toy3uar.somasp2&i~e.
WWW.PPA.COM
PPP;swebsiteact5ar.agatewaymyour
member-and~ sE?dEsin
-to~ilpbr-and
pwkirgW&.PPAmem
bencanakuamessandupdatetheirmemk~~andviRNthelrnmmt
eciucationa~-idtdbgmeritmtalr
MA&E-MAlLAND=
If you wish to fax matedab to PPA
send them to (404) 614~3400. E-mail:
csc@ppamm. If you are rnaikg materials.
they should be admessed to: Fmfesional
photogtaphers of Amelia. 229 PLsche
St. Sulk 2200. Atlanta. GA 30303.
hfmBERsEIPcAlEGom
Pmf&nal Pilotographers of America
offers its members a variety of membwship Optl~~ - each with access to different
benefits
;
j
!
I
F-mfeisknaIActive - Individual. full mem

henhip for the pmfessio~l photographer.
lhh is the pdmay membershi categcny
of the assocktion. Acres to alI benetits
including the Mark&g Guide, and the
Consumer and Refenal pogmn~.
/
AddiitodAaodak - Employee or panI
IX of a Pmfetional Active Member. Once
i
a studio has a Pmfe-sionai Active member.
my additional studio staff may join at the
/ Additional kwciate rate - iuhkh is 37%
!
less than Prdessonal Active dues ibis
j
membership category allows au d your
:
shdo employees to take advantage d
PPAs benefits.
Aspidng -Anindividualpreptigfora
career in photography. or a new entiyeveel
~ pmfessionaL Limited he&its and hvqvar
j tenure in thk categoly.
~
Cana&n-ForcitizasdCanada
1
bduks basic member benefit package.
~
pills acoess to lndemnlflcation protection
~
and Uw online referral pmgmm.
I CajnaakandCaporahAwckk-m
catqxywasdeifqs~fcrtbs
staliphomgraphersandimagemakas
worldng fcr no*pilo~ rmpoiations
Lffe*- Individual 65 years of age or dder
and a member of the Associati~ for 30
cuntblucus yeaIs or tnore. lhii categoty is
divided Into two sutcategcJdes: ufe (for
memhm amently active In tie photogm
phy husine$ and Iife ret (for members
who are retired).
Iokmatkna- lhis category is aMilable
to individuals not residing in the United

states or U.S. pos&oIls.
PPA Dues Instailment Plan Application Form

Yes, please sign me up for the PPA installment plan. Fill out the form below and send to WA. Mail to
PPA, 229 Peachtree St NE, Suite 2200, Atlanta, GA 30303. Fax to 404-614-6400. You cm also use the
form on OUT website, ww~v.~m~.coni, to sign up yourself.
By submitting this installment application I understand that PPA will make the initial charge to my credit
card during the next scheduled installment process and then charge my card monthly. I understand that I
will pay an additional $l.OO per month for bank processing fees. Toe monthly charge will appear on my
credit card statemenu as Professional Photogmphers of America and the statement will act as a receipt.
PPA will continue to charge my credit card monthly for a total of 12 payments. At the end of a years
membership, PPA will notify me of any dues or membership changes and automatically renew my
membership in PPA. I can at any time resign from PPA and stop charges being made to my credit card.
Any payments made prior to that are nonrefundable. A resignation must be received in writing, fmed or
c-mailed. E-mailed resignation must come from the e-mail address contained in the members record,
include their name and PPA ID number. I agree to inform PPA of any changes made to my credit card,
such as a change in my account. If PPA is unable to successtidly make a charge to my credit card, PPA
will contact me to make any changes or corrections to my record. After one-month non-payment my
membership will be considered void and I am required to pay the balance in full to reinstate my
membership.
This is for
:
a new application, both membership application and bxtailment application required.

A membership renewal, PPA Member ID nugher
Name
Address
ZIP
*-mail
Daytime phone
Credit card
0 Visa
0 MasterCard q
Amex
Account number
Name on card
q
c l
q
q
Exp. dateSignature
required
Professional Active Membership with Indemnification

Profkional Active Membership without Indemnitication
Aspiring Membership (iknew members only) with Indemnification
Aspiring Membership (for new member.s on(v) without Indemnification
International Membership
0 lnlcmalional Mcmhership with Indemnification
*Please nate, if you have a Portrait or Wedding clnssifkatinn, Indemnification is mandatory.
74
Is there 8x1 additional fee that I must pay if t select the !.nstaiIment Plan? Yes. An
additional $1 per month will be added to the monthly install amount BS an applicable bank
processing fee.
@me I sign up for the credit card payment plan can I cancel OF change? Yes. You may
change from the credit card payment plan to a regular single payment at any time by paying the
balance due for one years membership. Please contact PPAs Customer Service Center. You
can resign at any time and cancel payments being made to your credit card. Any payments
already made are non-refundable. A resignation must be received in writing, faxed or e-ma&d.
E-mailed resignation must come from the e-mail address contained in the members record,
include their name and PPA ID number. Frankly, this is to protect both members and PPA from
inadvertently dropping members.
What happens if I cancel a credit card and forget to notify PPA? When we are unable to
charge your credit car& we will attempt to contact you so that you can remedy the situation. We
will keep your membership status as current for one month in order for you to make the
necessary changes or corrections. At the end of a one month period your membership will be
terminated
Can I reinstate my membership if there is a problem during tbe year? Yes. If for some
rason we are unable to process monthly payments and must void your membership, you can
reinstate your membership by paying the balance in full.
Wii 1 receive a renewal invoice? No, you will not be sent a renewal invoice. We will send
you a notice informing you of any changes with member categories and dues prior to your
renewal date. Renewal will be automatic unless we are notified that you plan on resigning your
PPA membership or paying the amount in full.
Will I be sent a receipt? No. Because of the nature of this monthly program we are unable to
send individual receipts monthly. You can use your credit card statement, with the charge noted
as PPA, as a receipt.
Is the installment plan available for firm memberships.7 Unfortunately, not at this time.
We may offer firm installments in the car future. but because they involve multiple
memberships, we are not able to at this time.
Can I use the installment plan to renew my membership or is it for only new members? It
is for both. New members who wish to USC the installment plan simply need to attach the
installment form to the required membership application. Members who wish to renew their
membership using the installment plan cari USC the in@llment plan form and attach it to their
renewal invoice.
75
Appendix P
This weekend I worked at two bridal shows. Saturday February 16, The
Bridal Fair at the FSK Mall in Frederick and Sunday February 1 Th, the
Wedding Expo at Woodsboro Activities Complex.. I provided coverage at the
booths for a home based photography business called Photographic Solutions.
This business focuses on Weddings, Events and Portrait services. It is my
brothers business. When I told him the topic of my research he welcomed me
to spend some time in the trenches of a bridal show. I was not able to have
any surveys completed since I was representing my brothers business which is
an established business and my surveys and questions could have discredited
his established and earned image of an experienced photographer. What I was
able to take with me was personal experience.
The Bridal Fair at FSK Mall

I arrived at lpm. .There was a fashion show scheduled for the following day at
2pm. Some of the vendor tables were either empty or just had information on
them and unmanned. Vendors included a basket company, cosmetics, two
kitchen party companies, two DJs, a cake baker, a debt consolidator, a
mansion, two tuxedo shops and Photographic Solutions.
76
What I observed was that the trafhc at the mall was a total mix of the general
population. Many older married women stopped to look at the photos
momentarily, reflecting upon their own big day. Several brides-to-be did stop
by, but it was only because they happened to be in the mall coincidently, not
that they were on any mission to look for wedding service providers. One
woman who stopped by the booth stated her husband had a home based
photography business based out of Germantown about 15 years ago. I asked
her why had he given it up? She stated that in order to do the job right it
required countless hours going thru the photos to put together proof albums.
She said it just took too much time to do as a weekend part-time job. I
observed as my brother went over types of packages and explaining the
difference between 35mm and medium format quality of photos. I lefi the
show about 5pm.
The Weddiw Exuo at Woodsboro Activities Complex

I arrived prior to the start of the show which was planned for 5 hours, 1la.m.
to 4p.m.. Since my brother was already part of the show at the FSK Mall, he
set the table and laptop up for me and headed back to the mall show. He
checked in a few times at first since I was by myself. The organizer of the
event had billed the event as having over 25 venders. There was one limousine
service, one event location which had yet to actually host a wedding yet, a
basket company, cosmetics company, a day sap, an historic mansion,
videographer, a restaurant/ banquet facility, a bridal magazine, a DJ and
including Photographic Solutions, three photographers. Because Photographic
Solutions was appearing at two bridal shows simultaneously, it meant that the
photo and album samples had to be split between the two shows. In the course
of 4 hours only about 5 brides had crossed the doorways threshold. Although
each enjoyed the individual attention they enjoyed. The vendor next to me was
the videographer and I enjoyed watching the weddings. It was the only way to
help pass the time.
This show gave me my introduction into how vendors try to draw others into
circles of referrals. Some may call it networking, but what I saw were attempt
to profit from someone elses desire to get their name out there. I have to say
right off, I smiled and listened, but what I heard each time was self interest
being served. I walked up to the mansion house table in time to hear one of
the other two photographers ask if they are ever asked by brides for referrals
for services such as photographers. His response was that they had set up a
78
web site as their referral system in which a vendor would pay $60 per month
to be a part of and they would have a annual wedding event in which all
members of the referral site would get to participate. This self serving theme
continued on through the day. In talking with the restaurant/ banquet facility I
learn that she too is considering a wedding event as well, but she hesitates at
the thought that of other caterers wanting to bring food in. She decided during
the course of our conversation that she wants to have exclusive rights to serve
food at her event. The draw of organizing these wedding events is to get
vendors to pay as much as $400 each per event to participate with no
guarantee of attendance by potential customers. The attitudes I was observing
I must admit made me feel a bit skeptical about anything anyone said to me. It
left me wondering what self serving agenda was behind any comment. I
decided to get through the day smiling and just taking their cards and literature
and listening to them courteously
79

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PAM BAKER PHOTOGRAPHY:

This paper is submitted in satisfaction of the requirements in MBA 599,

Photographers Interview Questions

Interview with Steven Theis

Interview with Emily Sinclair

Interview with John Kim Muchesko

Interview with Katrina Kilgallon

Interviews with businesses

Interviews with former and titure brides

Interview with Mark Walls - Frederick County Zoning

Interview with Tiiothy Davis- City of Frederick Zoning

Interview with Brian Kennedy of Verizon Yell&w Pages

Web page information for Frederick.Com and Yahoo

Interviews with Cynthia Baker and Michael Himmel

Appendix M Interviews concerning state licensing

Interview with Chamber of Commerce

Professional Photographers Association information

Notes from working at two bridal shows

For my research project I choose to research the feasibility of starting my own

I am currently employed full time in a career that I enjoy, therefore looking

having grown up in a home where a business was operated

Deriving an additional soume of income is part of the reason I would want to

My objective is to determine if1 should start a home-based photography

Through research and interviews, my goal to learn what would be required to

I am fortunate enough to enjoy the career that I am currently employed in. I

my child in every way, no exceptions. So a part-time job for me would need

also like to learn what types of photography are specialized in by home-based

The interview portion of my research will include interviews with home-based

I planned to interview at least six home-based business photographers to learn

The third portion of my interviewing will be to retail photography clients. The

Contacting the Chamber of Commerce is the fist thing most people

Reviewed the following literature for information:

Created interview questions for home based photographers and

Contacted home based photographers to request interviews or

from 1983 until 7 years ago when she moved her

Photogrqhy, Spring City, PA, 5 years as a home-based

Sent out e-mail questionnaires and went to bridal shops to

Contacted various types of businesses to find out what their

Contacted county and state agencies to find out zoning

Contacted local Chamber of Commerce for information on how

Contacted the yellow pages for advertising rates as well as a

Worked two bridal shows for a home-based photographer (my

starting a home-based photography business. The other, Profitable

Why do you want to start a home-based business?

What photographic experience and management skills can you

How do you plan to accommodate the space needs of your new

What licenses, permits, and laws do you need to know about to

What are your long-term financial and personal goals?

AtIer deciding to open a home-based photography business, one should decide

AtIer considering assignment or stock photography, you also want to review

fashion, pet, and architectural magazines. The corporate market encompasses

Having basic photography skills is nice, but if you are looking to be a

Being an assistant to a photographer would be a great way to End

The business side must be kept in balance. When starting a home-based

business in all ways. You will need to go to

want to consider whether to incorporate the business or what type of legal

In addition to a computer, other standard office supplies will be needed. These

Space must also be considered. There never seems to be enough of it in a

The home studio will need to be equipped. Background seamless paper in

Estimated Start-up Costs

Total Estimated Start-up Costs

seem familiar to me since I have a degree in accounting, but a person not

My interviews with home-based photographers were wonderful once I started