6 answers
lavaune
Student
Laurel, Maryland
1
Question
Asked
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What is a trick, habit, or advice would you give to your younger self or someone else trying to make there way with photography and videography?
Is there a life hack you found or something you resized later on or maybe even tips and tricks to doing stuff, not even in the Field but maybe in photoshop or Premier pro
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6 answers
Steve Jacobson
Creative Leader/Content Creator/Producer/Editor/Storyteller
94
Answers
Westlake Village, California
Updated
Steve’s Answer
When I think back to my younger self, I always remind myself to learn from mistakes and not be afraid to step out of my comfort zone. I started with big dreams in the film industry, like many do. Although I didn't become a great film director, I found success in other areas of film and video. I've built a rewarding career, and now, even in the later stages, I'm enjoying working on small independent projects that positively impact people's lives.
Stay alert, flexible, and ready to adapt, especially with ever-changing technology. Focus on creating impactful stories that connect with and engage the audience.
Best of luck!
Stay alert, flexible, and ready to adapt, especially with ever-changing technology. Focus on creating impactful stories that connect with and engage the audience.
Best of luck!
Thank you so much for the advice.
lavaune
Samanta Vicens
Photographer
2
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Samanta’s Answer
Hi! Photographer here. The advice I would give my younger self: choose one niche you're passionate about and practice every day. Literally, every day.
I feel like one of my mistakes was trying to do all types of photography all the time just because I could. And also, everybody in my country that I've seen "making it" in this industry are self-taught. They just grabbed their cameras, became obsessed with doing photoshoots all the time, and from practice and repetition they became masters and eventually found their way to be very successful.
Hope that helps ✨️
I feel like one of my mistakes was trying to do all types of photography all the time just because I could. And also, everybody in my country that I've seen "making it" in this industry are self-taught. They just grabbed their cameras, became obsessed with doing photoshoots all the time, and from practice and repetition they became masters and eventually found their way to be very successful.
Hope that helps ✨️
Samanta, thank you!
lavaune
Eric So
Video Producer
2
Answers
Salt Lake City, Utah
Updated
Eric’s Answer
Do a lot of practice and passion projects. Always volunteer to help with other people's projects, especially when you are young and do not yet have a large portfolio yourself. That way, you can slowly and surely build a strong portfolio and resume, and you get to network and meet people in the industry.
I actually secured my first job working at a music studio (primarily creating music educational videos) because of a project I had volunteered for in college. The contact I made remembered me and reached out when her company was hiring. So, genuinely network and connect with people—sometimes it leads to something immediately, and sometimes it doesn't, but you truly never know!
Also, by immersing yourself in a lot of photography and video work, you will learn a lot about yourself. You might confirm how much you truly love this type of work, OR you might realize you actually don't enjoy it. If that happens, remember it is never too late to switch paths and find a new passion!
I actually secured my first job working at a music studio (primarily creating music educational videos) because of a project I had volunteered for in college. The contact I made remembered me and reached out when her company was hiring. So, genuinely network and connect with people—sometimes it leads to something immediately, and sometimes it doesn't, but you truly never know!
Also, by immersing yourself in a lot of photography and video work, you will learn a lot about yourself. You might confirm how much you truly love this type of work, OR you might realize you actually don't enjoy it. If that happens, remember it is never too late to switch paths and find a new passion!
Steward "Tony" Pacheco
Minister, USMC Vet, John C. Maxwell Cert. Coach, Trainer, Speaker, Teacher, Straight Shooter
193
Answers
Kyle, Texas
Updated
Steward "Tony"’s Answer
Pick subject matter that you feel can reflect your personal view of the world. Analyze others perspective as they use other forms of media to do same. trust advise from those who have had successes but the creative side is always in your control if you are self funded.
When I would shoot video for projects, I first had to undertands the directors vision, but in my own productions, I welcomed ideas as well. Using them if I could or saving those ideas for future projects,
Keep networking with others in the field and assist others with their productions for pay or for points. Always have your blank business card ready to hand out to those in the business you meet. Never allow talent to hold your production hostage as there are many hungry talent out there who will give you phenominal work.
During a cattle call line up, never announce yourself but walk around the auditioning crowd and analyze character as well as personality. Anyone who snubs you during your walk around, not knowing who you are, may be a difficult selection. I toss them first when my reveal is announced.
These are just my personal tidbits of advice from my work in video and television. I have a few years in the business but its been a while. Just Have Fun because some days will be trying. Break A Leg!
When I would shoot video for projects, I first had to undertands the directors vision, but in my own productions, I welcomed ideas as well. Using them if I could or saving those ideas for future projects,
Keep networking with others in the field and assist others with their productions for pay or for points. Always have your blank business card ready to hand out to those in the business you meet. Never allow talent to hold your production hostage as there are many hungry talent out there who will give you phenominal work.
During a cattle call line up, never announce yourself but walk around the auditioning crowd and analyze character as well as personality. Anyone who snubs you during your walk around, not knowing who you are, may be a difficult selection. I toss them first when my reveal is announced.
These are just my personal tidbits of advice from my work in video and television. I have a few years in the business but its been a while. Just Have Fun because some days will be trying. Break A Leg!
Thanks for the advice.
lavaune
Steward "Tony" Pacheco
Minister, USMC Vet, John C. Maxwell Cert. Coach, Trainer, Speaker, Teacher, Straight Shooter
193
Answers
Kyle, Texas
Updated
Steward "Tony"’s Answer
Pick subject matter that you feel can reflect your personal view of the world. Analyze others' perspectives as they use other forms of media to do the same. trust advice from those who have had successes but the creative side is always in your control if you are self funded.
When I would shoot video for projects, I first had to understand the director's vision, but in my own productions, I welcomed ideas as well. Using them if I could or saving those ideas for future projects,
Keep networking with others in the field and assist others with their productions for pay or for points. Always have your blank business card ready to hand out to those in the business you meet. Never allow talent to hold your production hostage as there are many hungry talents out there who will give you phenomenal work.
During a cattle call line up, never announce yourself but walk around the auditioning crowd and analyze character as well as personality. Anyone who snubs you during your walk around, not knowing who you are, may be a difficult selection. I toss them first when my reveal is announced.
These are just my personal tidbits of advice from my work in video and television. I have a few years in the business but its been a while. Just Have Fun because some days will be trying. Break A Leg!
When I would shoot video for projects, I first had to understand the director's vision, but in my own productions, I welcomed ideas as well. Using them if I could or saving those ideas for future projects,
Keep networking with others in the field and assist others with their productions for pay or for points. Always have your blank business card ready to hand out to those in the business you meet. Never allow talent to hold your production hostage as there are many hungry talents out there who will give you phenomenal work.
During a cattle call line up, never announce yourself but walk around the auditioning crowd and analyze character as well as personality. Anyone who snubs you during your walk around, not knowing who you are, may be a difficult selection. I toss them first when my reveal is announced.
These are just my personal tidbits of advice from my work in video and television. I have a few years in the business but its been a while. Just Have Fun because some days will be trying. Break A Leg!
Thank you for the advice.
lavaune
VAMP Media
AV Media Manager
1
Answer
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Updated
VAMP’s Answer
If I could give my younger self advice, it would be to stay true to your art. When working for clients, always deliver what they need, but try to leave your unique touch in your work. Photography is a form of art, so use it to show your perspective.
I usually work with Lightroom and use Photoshop for touch-ups. My advice is to shoot as if you can't rely on digital tools to fix mistakes. Focus on mastering light in your photography. One of my inspirations is Teenie "One Shot" Harris. Imagine a world without Lightroom or Photoshop. You would need to understand light, framing, angles, perspectives, and leading lines to create a compelling story with your photos.
When it comes to video and using Premiere, I try to stay organized, which makes editing easier. Always push yourself to be creative and expressive. Take the time to learn the software and how it all works together.
Try taking photos in very challenging environments.
Try to learn all of the features of your camera.
Although we live a digital photography world learn your photographic history.
I usually work with Lightroom and use Photoshop for touch-ups. My advice is to shoot as if you can't rely on digital tools to fix mistakes. Focus on mastering light in your photography. One of my inspirations is Teenie "One Shot" Harris. Imagine a world without Lightroom or Photoshop. You would need to understand light, framing, angles, perspectives, and leading lines to create a compelling story with your photos.
When it comes to video and using Premiere, I try to stay organized, which makes editing easier. Always push yourself to be creative and expressive. Take the time to learn the software and how it all works together.
VAMP recommends the following next steps:
Love this, Thank You
lavaune