How to become a professional photographer
If you'd like to consider photography as something more than just a
creative outlet or a hobby you may be on your way to discovering a new
career path, one which will come with respect, a monetary reward and
allow you to have an occupation were the line between work and play is
blurred. This is not to say that becoming a photographer is easy, nor
is it to say that all people who want to become professional
photographers will attain their goal. The photography industry is
cutthroat and competitive. There are more people who want to become
world renowned photographers than there are spaces to fill. The result
is that, those who want to fill those spots, or even just become
successful at photography on a local level are going to need to have
immense creativity and business acumen like no other.
Becoming a working professional photographer has to do with one main
element; Becoming recognized in the field. People just don't buy your
art; they also buy your credentials. In a sense, their buying what you
represent. Often those things you represent will be of intrinsic value
to your customer. Such as who've you've worked with in the past, where
you've been published, how long you've been a photographer, where
you've traveled to do work and so on.
You will also want to get as much education under your belt as possible.
Throughout your education as a photographer you should also be taking as
many photographs as possible to help build your portfolio. You will need
to ensure your photography portfolio stands above the rest by paying
extra special attending to detail. Look at the book itself, the paper
it's printed on, the font of descriptions, your boarders, your themes,
picture sizes, colors, layout and so on. Do not simply fill a scrap
book or photo album with photographs. Once finished, you should be able
to walk away from your portfolio and be impressed with your own work
(which is no easy task for any photographer, many of whom are their own
worst critics).
You should also start looking around for assistant or internship work.
Often this work doesn't pay well (if at all) but it will help you learn
more about the industry and art. You should try and work under the most
respected photographers you can find. By doing this you are adding to
your credentials without knowing it. You want to only surround yourself
with the best and present your best side all of the time.
You will also need to have a strong sense of business acumen. If you are
planning on being like the 50% of other photographers who are self
employed, you'll need to make sure you have a good sense of networking
skills, pricing, public relations knowledge and on top of that have a
strong sense of creativity and imagination. Being an artist and a
business person will be no small feat. It will have you on your toes at
all times.
Lastly, you'll want to narrow your professional interest to one or two
main fields. For example you may want to work with press and other
media, or you may be interested in photojournalism. Others may be
interested in scientific or sports photography. Whatever your interest
is, make sure you find the best people in that particular industry and
study them. Model your success after theirs.
Remember, nothing worth while comes easy. There will be many nights when
you think to yourself "what am I doing". Stick with it and there will be
a payoff at the end of the tunnel. Most importantly, enjoy your whole
journey. The success at the end wouldn't be as welcome if there wasn't
the struggle at the beginning. Best of luck
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