Переезд в Таиланд. Как легально работать фотографом. Migel Radriges Пхукет

Summary

The video script features an interview with Mikhail, a professional photographer and owner of a production studio in Phuket, Thailand. Mikhail shares his experience and insights on working legally as a photographer in Thailand, emphasizing the importance of obtaining a work permit and registering a business. He discusses the challenges of competition and the necessity of differentiating one's work through quality and innovation. Mikhail also talks about the various niches he has explored, such as hotel photography, commercial advertising, and real estate, and how he has expanded his team to cover a wide range of visual content production. He stresses the importance of continuous improvement and building a strong brand to gain recognition and respect in the industry. Additionally, Mikhail touches on the practical aspects of working in Thailand, including the need for understanding local laws, culture, and language, as well as the practicalities of maintaining professional photography equipment in a humid climate. The interview provides valuable advice for aspiring photographers considering a move to Thailand to pursue their craft.

Takeaways

• 📝 Legally working as a photographer in Thailand requires setting up a company, obtaining a business visa, and a work permit.
• 💰 The initial costs for setting up a legal photography business in Thailand can be around 120,000 to 130,000 baht, including taxes and monthly payments.
• 📈 Mikhail's production studio has expanded to cover a full spectrum of visual content creation, including photography, video, and design.
• 🏨 The studio's main focus is on hotel photography, commercial advertising, and real estate for sale or rent.
• 🤝 They have worked with various clients, including local Thai brands, Russian businesses, and international clients from Europe and the USA.
• 🌐 The studio has gained recognition and popularity through consistent work and quality, not just by reputation alone.
• 💰 The competition in the photography market in Thailand is high, especially regarding pricing, with some photographers accepting lower fees.
• 📈 They have used statistics to show the impact of their photography on client bookings, which can increase by 150% after their work.
• 📷 The studio's equipment is not purchased in Thailand due to high import taxes and markups; instead, they import from China to save costs.
• 🌟 Knowledge of the English language is essential for photographers in Thailand, with additional benefits from knowing Thai or other languages for broader opportunities.
• ⏳ Patience is key when starting a photography business in Thailand; it can take 3-6 months of investment and effort before seeing returns.
• 🤔 Considering the competitive market, it's important for photographers to have a unique niche or high-quality services to stand out and succeed.

Q & A

What is the legal process for working as a photographer in Thailand?

To work legally as a photographer in Thailand, one must establish a company, obtain a business visa, and apply for a work permit. The work permit will specify photography as the profession, allowing legal commercial activities related to photography.

Why do many photographers choose not to work legally in Thailand?

Many photographers may opt not to work legally due to the costs involved in setting up a company, paying taxes, and obtaining necessary permits, which can amount to around 120,000 to 130,000 baht in the first year.

What niche did Mikhail choose for his photography business in Phuket?

Mikhail chose to specialize in hotel photography, commercial advertising, and real estate photography for sale and rental, targeting property management companies and developers.

How has Mikhail's business evolved over time?

Mikhail's business has grown from a one-man operation to a team of 7 people, including several photographers, operators, and designers, covering the entire spectrum of visual content production.

What are some of the services offered by Mikhail's production studio?

The studio offers a wide range of services including Instagram photography, professional Stories creation, 3D photography, and even painting logos on canvases for companies.

How does Mikhail approach working with different types of clients?

Mikhail has worked with a diverse clientele, including Russians, Americans, Europeans, and locals. He emphasizes the importance of building a strong foundation and mutual understanding with clients to achieve the best results.

What is the competitive landscape like for photographers in Phuket?

The competition is primarily around pricing, with some photographers offering their services at two to three times lower rates. However, Mikhail focuses on the quality of work and the value it brings to clients.

How does Mikhail ensure the longevity and growth of his brand?

Mikhail focuses on continuous improvement with each photography project, trying new techniques, and learning from each experience. He aims to grow the brand daily rather than relying on a single successful project.

What are the challenges of working with photography equipment in Thailand?

The high humidity and salt from the beach can accelerate the wear and tear of equipment. It's essential to store cameras in a specialized drying cabinet to prevent damage.

Why is it important for photographers to learn the local language when working abroad?

Knowing the local language is crucial for better communication and understanding of the local culture and laws. It also helps in building respect and rapport with local clients and colleagues.

What advice does Mikhail have for aspiring photographers who want to work in Thailand?

Mikhail advises aspiring photographers to be prepared for at least 3-6 months of investment, understand the importance of working legally, and respect the local culture and laws. He also emphasizes the need for continuous learning and improvement.

How does Mikhail's approach to photography benefit the local community and economy?

By focusing on high-quality photography for hotels, real estate, and tourism, Mikhail's work contributes to promoting Phuket internationally, which can lead to increased tourism and economic benefits for the local community.