Editor's Notes

Throughout the years we have paid close attention to the business side of photography, featuring tips and words of wisdom from working pros in Maria Piscopo’s Business Trends column, Jack Neubart’s Pro’s Choice column, and numerous articles on wedding, portrait, stock, event, and other venues in which photographers, both full- and part-time, share their experiences on how they earn a living with their vision. Looking at it from the outside it can all seem rather daunting, but as with any business venture, dedication, hard work, and excellence of craft can pay off.

© 2010, Grace Schaub, All Rights Reserved

Of particular interest to me is how many of these working photographers got their start. Many began with an avid interest in photography and the drive to find ways in which they could use that passion to help pay the rent. Some dove headfirst into one aspect of the trade, while others began as “weekend warriors” who kept their day jobs while working nights and their “free time” on various jobs. Some assisted for a time before striking out on their own, while others found a particular niche where their unique talents flowered. The one trait that they all shared was their willingness to learn and adapt to the changes in the industry and an understanding that their work had merit, a confidence that what they had to offer was worthwhile. I can’t stress the latter attribute enough—you have to go to market with the strong sense that your vision, your craft, and your demeanor will be something that, at the end of the day, folks are willing to pay for.

A common myth is that photographers make lousy businesspeople. The feeling is that because they are artists they are necessarily poor at marketing, shy about money, and unwilling to ask for rates that actually make a profit for the time and material expended. I can honestly say that this is a misconception. The successful photographers I know are hardly shy and produce excellent work that allows them to make a good living at what they do. Attitude, it is true, only gets you so far, but having a positive one about yourself and your work is one of the keys to success in this business.

You’ll hear different advice from those in the trade about how to get started. Some say you should start as a “generalist” and do it all before fate and disposition guide you on a certain path. Others recommend finding a specific talent and exploiting it—be that studio tabletop work, portraits, events, weddings, etc. Both, from my experience, can work, and the key is sticking to whatever path you choose and being watchful for any opportunities that come your way. And—these elements are key—always polish your people skills, manage your budget carefully, and create a business plan that looks one, two, and 10 years ahead.

Can art and business mix? Sometimes, though if you spell art with a capital “A” that might be a tough go. But if you see a part of your photography as a trade, as a craft, then you might be relieved of the burden of maintaining the veneer of being an “Artist” and concentrate on having your art serve as the basis for a career. There’s nothing more rewarding than being able to make a living at what you love to do while not losing sight of the fact that as a photographer you have something important to share with the world. Keeping a balance between business and pleasure is what it’s all about.

 

www.shutterbug.com
Check our web page often for the latest updates, news, and opinions on the photography scene. Our archives are a rich source of information and contain every article we have published since 2000. Search by author, title, or camera and lens and delve into our rich How-To library. You can also share your opinions on our Forums and your images on our Galleries.