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what is the first step to be a photographer?
I've been wanting to be a photographer for my career but i am not too sure how to begin my career. How do i start?
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11 answers
Updated
Victoria’s Answer
Start with free or low-cost photography courses in person or online!
Thank you!
jasmin
Updated
Carlos R.’s Answer
Hello Jasmin,
Welcome to an extraordinary journey of passion and creativity.
In addition to the business and education side of things, remember that the heart of this journey lies in being an artist. Immerse yourself in observing the beauty of nature and art, both contemporary and classic. Pay attention to the unique characteristics of human nature. Learn from the past masters in lighting, composition, and subject matter across all fields, be it photography, painting, or any form of art. Remember, it's a competitive world out there, so let your uniqueness shine. Create original images that not only have the potential to be marketed, but also nourish your soul, keeping your artistic spirit alive.
When it comes to taking photos, take a moment. Reflect on the lighting, composition, and camera angle. Avoid the temptation to take countless shots without thought. Imagine you're using a film camera, where each shot costs money to develop, process, and print. Make each shot count.
In due course, build a portfolio that you can market. Share your images with the world when you feel ready and confident.
Remember, a good photographer is made, not bought. Don't fall for the marketing hype that a fancy camera is all you need. When the time comes you will progress in the neverending venture of purchasing camera equipment.
I'm thrilled for the journey ahead of you.
Wishing you the best of luck!
Welcome to an extraordinary journey of passion and creativity.
In addition to the business and education side of things, remember that the heart of this journey lies in being an artist. Immerse yourself in observing the beauty of nature and art, both contemporary and classic. Pay attention to the unique characteristics of human nature. Learn from the past masters in lighting, composition, and subject matter across all fields, be it photography, painting, or any form of art. Remember, it's a competitive world out there, so let your uniqueness shine. Create original images that not only have the potential to be marketed, but also nourish your soul, keeping your artistic spirit alive.
When it comes to taking photos, take a moment. Reflect on the lighting, composition, and camera angle. Avoid the temptation to take countless shots without thought. Imagine you're using a film camera, where each shot costs money to develop, process, and print. Make each shot count.
In due course, build a portfolio that you can market. Share your images with the world when you feel ready and confident.
Remember, a good photographer is made, not bought. Don't fall for the marketing hype that a fancy camera is all you need. When the time comes you will progress in the neverending venture of purchasing camera equipment.
I'm thrilled for the journey ahead of you.
Wishing you the best of luck!
Thank you, Carlos R.!
jasmin
Updated
David’s Answer
Hi Jasmin,
To start; you will need an interchangeable lens camera and at least one lens. A used camera and lens will do at the beginning. I am a reader, so I always suggest books to learn something. My favorite photography writer is Michael Freeman and his book Photographers Handbook is an excellent start. To pursue this career choice, you have to be comfortable with your camera and it's features. A previous answer hinted at film. I would pass on film unless you absolutely have to go that route. I have been a digital shooter for 25 years and 25 years as a film shooter before that. Digital is THE way to go. Now that you have a camera, read the book and start shooting. Shoot anything that interests you. It appears you live in, or near San Francisco so you should have access to good libraries. Look at the work of professional photographers. I still look at the work of other photographers. That can inspire you.
I suggest a college degree and art is one choice I like. A degree allows you to make money as you build your photo business. You do not need a college degree for most photo jobs. Research the various genres of photography. Advertising photography pays the most and costs the most to get started.
I will warn you, a career in the arts is tough. Photography has to be your passion, you have to market yourself to prospective clients and you will have to be disciplined. Best of luck!
To start; you will need an interchangeable lens camera and at least one lens. A used camera and lens will do at the beginning. I am a reader, so I always suggest books to learn something. My favorite photography writer is Michael Freeman and his book Photographers Handbook is an excellent start. To pursue this career choice, you have to be comfortable with your camera and it's features. A previous answer hinted at film. I would pass on film unless you absolutely have to go that route. I have been a digital shooter for 25 years and 25 years as a film shooter before that. Digital is THE way to go. Now that you have a camera, read the book and start shooting. Shoot anything that interests you. It appears you live in, or near San Francisco so you should have access to good libraries. Look at the work of professional photographers. I still look at the work of other photographers. That can inspire you.
I suggest a college degree and art is one choice I like. A degree allows you to make money as you build your photo business. You do not need a college degree for most photo jobs. Research the various genres of photography. Advertising photography pays the most and costs the most to get started.
I will warn you, a career in the arts is tough. Photography has to be your passion, you have to market yourself to prospective clients and you will have to be disciplined. Best of luck!
Thank you for taking the time to help.
jasmin
Updated
Tasha’s Answer
Great question! There are so many great types of photography you could go into: Wedding/Enegagement, family/portraits, newborn, commercial, editorial, etc.
First, find the niche you want to pursue a career in. (For instance, I'm a product and brand photographer. I have a small studio in my house and I work with mostly jewelry, skincare, and drink/food brands from across the country)
Second, practice creativity within that niche. This is really something that you'll be doing for the length of your career, but will also be essential as you start. There are tons of great free ways to do this: search Pinterest for inspiration on images you love (and figure out what about that image makes you drawn to it), read blogs on your favorite niche in photography, follow photographers on Instagram that you admire, search YouTube for advice on how to achieve a certain lighting or composition style, take a peek at your local library for resources. If you have access to a photography class or club, that can be a great way to learn skills and network with others. Then practice, practice, practice! Whether with a smart phone or DSLR camera, get to know your equipment and all of its features. Find your unique style and never compare yourself to others, but instead be inspired to blaze your own path.
Third, create a portfolio of your favorite images that you've created. This could be on Instagram or a website or blog, wherever you can display your skills and style.
Fourth, you'll need to market yourself and your photography business. This will look different depending on the niche of photography you get into and can be a difficult part of owning a photography business. Some options for marketing yourself are: word of mouth (take pictures for your friends and family and have them share with others what they liked about working with you), be active on social media not only posting you own work but interacting and networking with other photographers or potential clients, attend networking events in your city, and/or if you have access to doing paid marketing, you can create ads on social media or local magazines/newsletters.
Good luck in beginning your career in photography and keep asking questions!
First, find the niche you want to pursue a career in. (For instance, I'm a product and brand photographer. I have a small studio in my house and I work with mostly jewelry, skincare, and drink/food brands from across the country)
Second, practice creativity within that niche. This is really something that you'll be doing for the length of your career, but will also be essential as you start. There are tons of great free ways to do this: search Pinterest for inspiration on images you love (and figure out what about that image makes you drawn to it), read blogs on your favorite niche in photography, follow photographers on Instagram that you admire, search YouTube for advice on how to achieve a certain lighting or composition style, take a peek at your local library for resources. If you have access to a photography class or club, that can be a great way to learn skills and network with others. Then practice, practice, practice! Whether with a smart phone or DSLR camera, get to know your equipment and all of its features. Find your unique style and never compare yourself to others, but instead be inspired to blaze your own path.
Third, create a portfolio of your favorite images that you've created. This could be on Instagram or a website or blog, wherever you can display your skills and style.
Fourth, you'll need to market yourself and your photography business. This will look different depending on the niche of photography you get into and can be a difficult part of owning a photography business. Some options for marketing yourself are: word of mouth (take pictures for your friends and family and have them share with others what they liked about working with you), be active on social media not only posting you own work but interacting and networking with other photographers or potential clients, attend networking events in your city, and/or if you have access to doing paid marketing, you can create ads on social media or local magazines/newsletters.
Good luck in beginning your career in photography and keep asking questions!
Tasha, thank you!
jasmin
Updated
David’s Answer
find a type of photography you are interested in. Google photographers who do what you would want to do. Reach out to them to see if you can assist them any way possible. Do a lot of stuff for free to get your name out there.
Thank you for the advice.
jasmin
Updated
Aisha’s Answer
Hi Jasmin,
Starting a career as a photographer requires passion, creativity, and determination. Here are some steps to help you begin your journey as a photographer:
1. **Define Your Style and Niche:** Consider what type of photography interests you the most. Explore different genres such as portrait, landscape, fashion, wildlife, or event photography. Experiment with various styles, techniques, and subjects to discover your unique artistic vision and niche.
2. **Invest in Equipment:** While you don't need the most expensive gear to start, invest in a quality camera, lenses, and other essential equipment that meet your needs and budget. Consider whether you prefer digital or film photography and research the best options for your chosen genre.
3. **Learn the Basics:** Familiarize yourself with the fundamentals of photography, including composition, lighting, exposure, and post-processing techniques. Take advantage of online tutorials, photography books, workshops, and courses to enhance your skills and knowledge.
4. **Practice Consistently:** Dedicate time to practice photography regularly and refine your craft. Experiment with different settings, angles, and perspectives to develop your eye and style as a photographer. Practice shooting in various environments and conditions to expand your versatility and adaptability.
5. **Build a Portfolio:** Create a portfolio showcasing your best work and diverse range of photography projects. Select high-quality images that demonstrate your skills, creativity, and style. Your portfolio is an essential tool for attracting clients, applying for jobs, and showcasing your talent to potential collaborators and employers.
6. **Gain Experience:** Seek opportunities to gain real-world experience and build your reputation as a photographer. Offer to shoot for friends, family, local businesses, events, or community organizations to expand your portfolio and network. Consider volunteering, assisting established photographers, or interning to gain valuable industry experience and mentorship.
7. **Market Yourself:** Develop a strong online presence and brand identity as a photographer. Create a professional website or portfolio to showcase your work, share your story, and attract potential clients. Utilize social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn to showcase your portfolio, connect with fellow photographers, and promote your services.
8. **Network:** Build relationships with other photographers, clients, industry professionals, and potential collaborators through networking events, workshops, and online communities. Networking can lead to new opportunities, referrals, and collaborations that can advance your career as a photographer.
9. **Stay Inspired and Evolve:** Stay inspired by seeking inspiration from other photographers, artists, and creatives. Attend exhibitions, galleries, and photography festivals to stay connected with the latest trends and innovations in the industry. Continuously challenge yourself, experiment with new techniques, and evolve as a photographer to stay relevant and competitive in the ever-changing photography landscape.
Remember that building a successful career as a photographer takes time, dedication, and perseverance. Stay committed to your passion, embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, and never stop learning and improving your craft. With persistence and determination, you can turn your dream of becoming a photographer into a rewarding and fulfilling career.
Starting a career as a photographer requires passion, creativity, and determination. Here are some steps to help you begin your journey as a photographer:
1. **Define Your Style and Niche:** Consider what type of photography interests you the most. Explore different genres such as portrait, landscape, fashion, wildlife, or event photography. Experiment with various styles, techniques, and subjects to discover your unique artistic vision and niche.
2. **Invest in Equipment:** While you don't need the most expensive gear to start, invest in a quality camera, lenses, and other essential equipment that meet your needs and budget. Consider whether you prefer digital or film photography and research the best options for your chosen genre.
3. **Learn the Basics:** Familiarize yourself with the fundamentals of photography, including composition, lighting, exposure, and post-processing techniques. Take advantage of online tutorials, photography books, workshops, and courses to enhance your skills and knowledge.
4. **Practice Consistently:** Dedicate time to practice photography regularly and refine your craft. Experiment with different settings, angles, and perspectives to develop your eye and style as a photographer. Practice shooting in various environments and conditions to expand your versatility and adaptability.
5. **Build a Portfolio:** Create a portfolio showcasing your best work and diverse range of photography projects. Select high-quality images that demonstrate your skills, creativity, and style. Your portfolio is an essential tool for attracting clients, applying for jobs, and showcasing your talent to potential collaborators and employers.
6. **Gain Experience:** Seek opportunities to gain real-world experience and build your reputation as a photographer. Offer to shoot for friends, family, local businesses, events, or community organizations to expand your portfolio and network. Consider volunteering, assisting established photographers, or interning to gain valuable industry experience and mentorship.
7. **Market Yourself:** Develop a strong online presence and brand identity as a photographer. Create a professional website or portfolio to showcase your work, share your story, and attract potential clients. Utilize social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn to showcase your portfolio, connect with fellow photographers, and promote your services.
8. **Network:** Build relationships with other photographers, clients, industry professionals, and potential collaborators through networking events, workshops, and online communities. Networking can lead to new opportunities, referrals, and collaborations that can advance your career as a photographer.
9. **Stay Inspired and Evolve:** Stay inspired by seeking inspiration from other photographers, artists, and creatives. Attend exhibitions, galleries, and photography festivals to stay connected with the latest trends and innovations in the industry. Continuously challenge yourself, experiment with new techniques, and evolve as a photographer to stay relevant and competitive in the ever-changing photography landscape.
Remember that building a successful career as a photographer takes time, dedication, and perseverance. Stay committed to your passion, embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, and never stop learning and improving your craft. With persistence and determination, you can turn your dream of becoming a photographer into a rewarding and fulfilling career.
Aisha, thank you!
jasmin
Updated
Dana’s Answer
Begin capturing images, even if it's just with your phone. Find subjects that pique your interest and you'll naturally discover your unique niche. Experiment with fresh angles, lighting, poses, and more to make your shots stand out. Don't hesitate to take multiple shots of each scene.
Invest in a quality interchangeable lens camera, even if it's preowned. The same goes for lenses - quality matters more than newness.
Take the opportunity to assist a seasoned photographer and absorb as much knowledge as you can. Don't be shy to ask questions. Offer to shoot for friends without any charge - it's all part of the learning process.
Create and publish your own website to showcase your work. Share your photos with other photographers and welcome their feedback.
Master tools like Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop to enhance your images.
Draw inspiration from the work of both older and younger photographers. Their unique perspectives can offer valuable insights.
Keep clicking those pictures, and most importantly, have a blast while doing it!
Invest in a quality interchangeable lens camera, even if it's preowned. The same goes for lenses - quality matters more than newness.
Take the opportunity to assist a seasoned photographer and absorb as much knowledge as you can. Don't be shy to ask questions. Offer to shoot for friends without any charge - it's all part of the learning process.
Create and publish your own website to showcase your work. Share your photos with other photographers and welcome their feedback.
Master tools like Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop to enhance your images.
Draw inspiration from the work of both older and younger photographers. Their unique perspectives can offer valuable insights.
Keep clicking those pictures, and most importantly, have a blast while doing it!
Thank you!
jasmin
Updated
Kevin’s Answer
You mentioned you want to do photography as a career, so the first thing to do is realize and acknowledge that you want to start a SERVICE company and always keep in mind that this is a business. Understand that you'll have competitors and that your work needs to be at least as good as theirs and also that you need to out-market them. Be professional, be on time, always over-deliver. Have a crisp clean website and instagram. DON"T WORK FOR FREE!
You should take AT LEAST as many business classes as you do photography related classes. Online classes are great (and you should do them) but if you have access to a local PROFESSIONAL photography program with a GOOD instructor, do that.
Even after you start your career in whatever discipline of photography you like, you need to do self assignments. It keeps your portfolio fresh and gives you material for instagram.
Don't get caught up in buying the latest gear. Buy used, lots of failed photographers out there that are selling good equipment. Don't buy ANYTHING unless it will clearly make you money. In business as in life, live below your means.
You should take AT LEAST as many business classes as you do photography related classes. Online classes are great (and you should do them) but if you have access to a local PROFESSIONAL photography program with a GOOD instructor, do that.
Even after you start your career in whatever discipline of photography you like, you need to do self assignments. It keeps your portfolio fresh and gives you material for instagram.
Don't get caught up in buying the latest gear. Buy used, lots of failed photographers out there that are selling good equipment. Don't buy ANYTHING unless it will clearly make you money. In business as in life, live below your means.
I appreciate your support, Kevin
jasmin
Updated
Corrine Evans’s Answer
Hi Jasmin- First thing I did was to read about photography and practice taking pictures. You can take pictures with a cell phone if you do not have a camera...that's totally fine and take pictures of things that you want to take a picture of.. for example : a friend ,a flower,- beautiful sky,the clouds ... that's how I started ... I did not have a professional camera, and that again that was ok.. but at first I read a lot about photography and practiced a lot. As I saw my interest in photography grow I took online classes..then classes at my local college. I am a photographer but I also went to college for the it.. I encourage education for it but you don't have to go to college to be a photographer. Threr are ,many successful self taught photographers- but to start I recommend reading about photography and practice practice practice .. one step at a time ...
Thank you!
jasmin
Updated
Chewy’s Answer
Honestly practice. Lots of practice. Then share your work. No photographer is the same. And remember photography is a capture of time. So people will choose photographers based on your style. If they like your work they will hire. Try to find a job that will let you carry your camera. I got my first customer that way. Build respect with your customers and fanbase. It will grow from there. When your ready. Build a website and or a portfolio to demonstrate your work and have a place to contact you. Facebook and Instagram is the best way to start then. After about 6 months to a year when your really ready to display your work. Make the website or a portfolio. If done right you can show off your work in higher resolution. Good luck.
Your advice was so helpful!
jasmin
Updated
Marla’s Answer
There are various ways to learn about photography. A lot of is is typically self taught, meaning you need to practice, take a class or two at a local community college, read books. You can also look for photography clubs or groups like in Meetup.com
Join photography groups on Facebook. Reach out to some pro-photographers in your area to ask if you can shadow them on gigs.
Join photography groups on Facebook. Reach out to some pro-photographers in your area to ask if you can shadow them on gigs.