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How to start a photography business in West Virginia
Wedding, portrait, commercial, or event photography and videography.
Recommended structure
LLC
Typical startup cost
$2,000 – $20,000
State
West Virginia
Step-by-step
- 1Form an LLC and get an EIN
- 2Get general liability + equipment insurance
- 3Apply for sales tax permit
- 4Open a business bank account + 0% APR card for gear
- 5Set up a booking + contract platform (HoneyBook, Pixieset, Studio Ninja)
- 6List on The Knot, WeddingWire, and Google Business Profile
Licenses & permits you'll likely need
- General business license
- Sales tax permit (prints/albums are taxable in most states)
- Drone Part 107 license (FAA, if applicable)
Exact requirements vary by city and county. Confirm locally before you operate.
Insurance
- • General liability
- • Equipment insurance
- • Professional liability
Tax notes
Section 179 lets you deduct the full cost of cameras, lenses, and computers in year one — up to $1M+.
Business banking
A 0% APR business credit card is the cheapest way to finance new camera gear. Pay off before the intro period ends.
Official West Virginia filing links
File LLC / Corp with West Virginia
West Virginia Secretary of State
Search business name
Confirm your name is available
Apply for an EIN (IRS)
Free federal tax ID
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