event photo phone

How to Start an Event Photography Business in Kenya (Using a Phone + Ring Light)

ByTujulishane

Introduction

The event photography business in Kenya is one of the most practical and low-capital hustles today. Thanks to smartphones with powerful cameras, you don’t need expensive DSLR equipment to start. With just a good phone, a ring light, and basic editing skills, you can capture birthdays, baby showers, graduations, and small corporate events. Event organizers value instant, high-quality photos, and clients are willing to pay for convenience. This makes event photography a profitable side hustle or full-time business for anyone with creativity and an eye for detail.

Startup Costs 💰

This hustle requires very little capital compared to traditional photography.

  • Capital Needed: KES 8,000 – 18,000
  • Key Expenses:
    • Good smartphone with quality camera (many people already own one).
    • Ring light with tripod — KES 3,000 – 7,000
    • Editing apps/software (free or paid) — KES 500 – 1,500
    • Power bank or extra battery pack — KES 2,000 – 4,000
    • Branding and online marketing — KES 1,000 – 2,000

💡 Tip: If you already have a good smartphone, your entry cost drops significantly.

Why This Business Works ✅

  1. High Demand: Every event needs photography.
  2. Low Capital: Start with a phone and ring light.
  3. Instant Delivery: Clients love getting photos on the spot.
  4. Repeat Clients: Families, schools, and small businesses call for photos often.
  5. Scalable: Upgrade later to professional cameras and videography.

Step-by-Step Setup 🛠️

1. Learn Photography Basics

  • Composition (framing subjects well).
  • Lighting (using natural and artificial light).
  • Editing (using apps like Snapseed, Lightroom, or Canva).

2. Get the Tools Ready

  • A smartphone with at least 12MP+ camera.
  • A ring light and tripod for stability and lighting.
  • Backup storage (Google Drive, flash disk, or memory card).
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3. Identify Your Target Market

  • Birthdays, graduations, baby showers.
  • Small weddings and church functions.
  • Corporate seminars and workshops.
  • School events.

4. Set Affordable Prices

  • Birthday shoot: KES 1,500 – 3,000
  • Baby shower: KES 2,000 – 5,000
  • Graduation shoot: KES 3,000 – 7,000
  • Small event package: KES 5,000 – 15,000

5. Market Your Services

  • Post your best shots on Instagram and TikTok.
  • Share on estate WhatsApp groups.
  • Partner with event planners and décor businesses.

Profit Breakdown 📊

Example:

  • Birthday shoot charged at KES 3,000.
  • Expenses (transport + editing data) ~KES 500.
  • Profit = KES 2,500 per event.

If you cover 8 events in a month:

  • 8 x 2,500 = KES 20,000 profit monthly.

👉 With more bookings and higher-value events, you can earn KES 50,000+ monthly.

Challenges & How to Overcome Them ⚠️

  1. Perception Issues: Some clients may prefer DSLR photographers.
    • Solution: Focus on quality edits, affordability, and instant delivery.
  2. Low Lighting in Venues: Some halls and tents are dark.
    • Solution: Use your ring light and adjust camera settings.
  3. Data & Storage: Photos take up space and require backups.
    • Solution: Use cloud storage like Google Drive or external hard drives.
  4. Competition: Many upcoming photographers.
    • Solution: Differentiate with instant delivery and social media branding.

Tips to Grow 🚀

  • Offer instant printing services with a portable printer.
  • Expand into short videos and reels for events.
  • Create event photography packages (with décor and cake partners).
  • Brand your business with a catchy name like “Snap & Shine Photography Kenya.”
  • Upgrade later to DSLR cameras and professional lighting.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) ❓

Q: How much capital do I need to start event photography in Kenya?
A: With KES 8,000 – 18,000, you can buy a ring light, tripod, and cover basics if you already own a good smartphone.

Q: How profitable is event photography?
A: A single shoot can earn KES 2,500 profit. With consistent bookings, you can make KES 20,000 – 50,000+ monthly.

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Q: Do I need professional training?
A: Not necessarily. Free YouTube tutorials can teach you the basics of photography and editing.

Q: Where can I find clients?
A: Social media, WhatsApp groups, referrals, and partnerships with event organizers.

Conclusion

The event photography business in Kenya is a low-capital, high-demand hustle that anyone with a good smartphone and ring light can start. With KES 8,000 – 18,000, you can take professional-quality photos, market yourself online, and earn steady income from birthdays, graduations, and small events. By focusing on creativity, affordability, and quick delivery, you can grow into a trusted photography brand.

👉 Explore more hustler-friendly opportunities in the Business Ideas Hub — with over 50+ small businesses you can start today.

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