Photography Advice I Would Have Given My Younger Self

Photography is a business that people enter for many reasons. You see the world more clearly as you age, and your approach to business will change. We all wish that we could go back and show our younger selves the lessons learned from our mistakes. Photography is no different. The mistakes made in youth are surprising.

Don’t Fixate On Cameras.

Cameras get the most attention if you spend any time on camera forums. It’s not uncommon for people to spend hours debating the differences between an 18.1-megapixel camera or a 16.1-megapixel one. It’s all absurd. The best camera is one that you can afford without getting into debt.

A skilled photographer can take amazing photos with any camera.

Lighting Lighting Lighting

Lighting is the most critical aspect of your life. You will spend hours analyzing it. You want to know everything about lighting, including strobe power settings and reflective index. Photographers paint with light.

Although lighting is one of the most important aspects of photography, it’s also the least interesting and sexiest. Spend the money saved on a high-end camera instead and invest it in strobes, softboxes, and kickers.

Learn about running a business

It is challenging to run a business that is successful, and it is even harder to run a successful photography business. Being a professional photographer is just one aspect of being a great photographer. Selling your photography skills to potential customers is an essential quality.

Remember that almost 85 percent of those who are new to photography will find work in another field within three years. It’s not the ability to be a good photographer or whether they have an 18-megapixel or 16.1-megapixel camera. What makes the difference between the survivors and the dropouts is their ability to find enough work to survive.

Always have insurance

It is absurd to be paid for a job but not have coverage in the event of an accident or to replace stolen equipment. Maslow’s hierarchy for photographers would include air, food, water, shelter, and insurance.

Take the time to meet other photographers.

Make sure you meet up with your local photo club or guild every once in a while. Even if you don’t get paid, spend time with other photographers to help them with their projects. If you have the means to hire a second photographer and pay your models when you can.

Everyone needs assistance in the photography industry, even those who are lone wolves. There will be an emergency, a sickness, or an accident. You will be able to get through the bad times if you have strong relationships. You will be viewed as a selfish jerk, and no one will help you in times of need.

While other photographers may be your competition, they are also your lifeline. When they are ill or injured and can’t work, remember that.