Been there, done that: How to establish a career in photography

As a retired photographer, I get this question a lot: What do you need to do to become a successful photographer? Well, there’s no easy answer, no shortcut. Here’s what you can do to establish a successful career in photography. 

Image source : onthewebbsocialmedia.com

1. Grow your network It’s amazing how much you can accomplish when people are readily available to help. But when you need the help of someone, it is too late to get to know her. Grow your network as you start your professional career. Get out there and help people, praise their work, show interest in their craft. You’ll be amazed how far someone will go to help a friend. 

2. Narrow down your genre and focus on a specialty Decide what you want to photograph and master everything you can about it. Being a photographer that shoots “everything” isn’t going to take you anywhere. People usually choose the best photographer for their needs. Of course, as you start your career it’s ok to take any project, from children’s parties to weddings just to support you financially, but as you go along, you need to master a genre that you will be known for. 

3. Learn from the greats Find a photographer producing great images, and learn from their techniques. If someone is doing something good, learn how they do it. 

Image source : hbculifestyle.com

Hi there, Jack Elway here. Follow me on Twitter to get regular photography tips.