I want to expand my photography portfolio by taking family and friends

[brzy23]

pictures for free. Is this a good idea? Ive been into photography for about 3 years now. I havent taken a class for it but I once worked as a photographer for Picture People and Ive been doing loads of research on digital photography and studying countless photographer's photos online. I want to start my own buisness here in my small town but before I do anything I want to expand my portfolio by taking my friends and families photos for free. Since most of these people are on MySpace I was wondering how I can advertise this on a bulletin and have them take me seriously.

[Burt C]

Taken pictures requires an eye for the unexpected. My father was a photographer. He always said that the best picture are the ones of people not expecting a picture.
SO, if you extent your portofilio with People pictures of family and friends...Make sure they do not post for the pictures...Catch them unexpected...You will get better result of raw footage. Always carried a camera...even a small one. You will be surprise the good pictures you take when no one is looking.!

[V2K1]

It's an excellent idea -- building a great portfolio is your #1 task.

Make sure you have anyone you photograph sign a Model Release.

This makes sure everyone understands what the use of the images will be.

I don't know what you mean about MySpace -- talk to your friends and family in person.

HTH
V

[Ara57]

Many photographers start their business that way. So go for it, just make sure you are able to reliably deliver what you show to your new customers once you start to charge. Good luck.