Want to change careers and become a full-time photographer? Gina outlines everything you need to do to make the leap. From getting industry experience, finding mentors, books worth reading and what projects you should work on, this episode is your guide to making it all happen. Enjoy!
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Show notes
Thanks to questions/comments from: Michael, Ron and Gary – great to hear from you!
The main reason people don’t start is FEAR
- Begin today
“Do not wait: the time will never be ‘just right’. Start where you stand, and work whatever tools you may have at your command and better tools will be found as you go along.” –Napoleon HillMake a decision and commit to it. - Make it officialRegister a business name
– find out the relevant laws in your country, register to pay tax
– get insurance etc to cover public liability and loss or damage to your gear
– invest in accounting software (eg Xero or Saasu) - Do some research
Know you camera
Shoot every day
Do workshops and courses
Continue to hone your skills – you never stop learning
The time you think you know everything is the time your biz starts to slideBooks worth readingThink and Grow Rich Napoleon Hill
How to win friends and influence people by Dale Carnegie
The 7 habits of highly effective people by Stephen R. Covey
The Alchemist by Paul Coelho
Losing My Virginity by Richard Branson
The Dip by Seth Godin
Outliers by Malcom Gladwell
Power Stories by Valerie Khoo
The E-Myth by Michael GerberPlus any biography ever written that discusses struggle to successNot everyone loves to read or has the time these days (including me) so I love audio books. - Find a mentor
Preferably someone who has a successful photography business who can fast track your business growthWant someone who is prepared to spend at least 1-2 hours a month with you. - Get as much industry experience as you can
Intern on weekends and after hours this could also develop into a mentor relationship. - Surround yourself with people who inspire you.
The minute you announce that you are becoming a photographer well meaning friends and family are going to talk you out of it
– they feel threatened when someone tries to leave the tribe
– you are a constant reminder of their failure to take a risk
– look for like minded people who will support and encourage you during this transition
– there are many online communities that will do this - Having a full time or part time job while you build your business is a great idea
I worked full time in an Italian restaurant for the first 5 year.
Having another job while I built my business had positive effects.
It gives you something positive do everyday while you are waiting for your first breaks - Have a folio with you at all times and be passionate about your love of photography (phone folio/mini book/postcards)
- Find clients amongst your inner circle
- Share your work on social media
- Your uniqueness is the most important asset you have
Develop a unique style that sets you apart from everyone else. - Make friends with other photographers
- Shoot personal projects that inspire youShooting personal projects give you a chance to test new lighting styles, lenses, locations and it’s a brilliant way to showcase your personality.
- Seek constructive criticism and learn from it
- LOVE WHAT YOU DO
Waking up everyday to do the thing I love is the best feeling in the world. Being able to make a living from it is awesome.
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