Photography as an art has been around for over a century. Early on, anyone who knew how to operate a camera could pose as a photographer with the lack of consumer level cameras. In 2022, almost every person has held a camera of some sort. Whether it be a toss-away polaroid, a camera phone or a DSLR, cameras are extremely affordable and available.
[the_ad id=”15900″]This has not only lowered the exclusivity of a photographer, it has also encouraged many newbies into the industry who want to make it big. As a pro photographer for over 10 years, I know what it takes to stay relevant in an extremely competitive arena. In this article, I will list out the main qualities a photographer must have to have a successful photography career.
Photographer with camera equipment
Tech – Enthusiast
From the outside looking in, Photography does not seem to be too technical. However, when you venture away from the phone’s camera and begin to use DSLR’s you immediately notice the amount of technical knowledge needed. Today’s consumer level DSLR’s and compact cameras have pretty good “auto” systems that will allow almost anyone to pick up the camera and take a decent shot.
[the_ad id=”15900″]Once a photographer enthusiasts has gotten comfortable with the “auto” setting, they normally move toward the “manual” setting, which requires another level of expertise. The learning curve for new photographers is steep and requires patience and discipline to master the fundamentals. This is the best part for early photographers. Once the fundamentals are mastered, the real journey into photography begins.
Photographers working together over computer in studio
Communication Skills
There are certain photography niches that do not require much communication skills outside of simple emailing and posting to social or photo sharing sites. These niches include Landscape Photography, Astro Photography, Street Photography and Journalism. While these niches do not require much communication, they do require some. This is were most early photographers miss the mark and decide to leave the business. A well running photography business requires a pool of content hungry clients. Finding this pool and making the most of it can make or break your business.
Photographer Lance Long of LongShots Media interacting with a client
Working with clients to find the right shot or create the right product is an art all onto itself. Viewers of our work are sometimes the leaders of our creative direction. Pro Photographers are often paid for their creative eye, but more times than not, they are paid to capture a moment and nothing else. So if you are looking to have staying power in this industry, brush up on your communication skills. You can not be shy in this business if you want to succeed.
Minimal portrait of young African American woman taking food photography pictures in studio, copy space
Patience & Self-Awareness
Think about it! Before you decided to become a photographer, how often would you have paid for a photographer’s services? Photography is a much needed service, but for which market? It takes much patience and self – awareness to find your ideal market. To weather the down seasons and properly price your services so you can survive. Within the actual craft, patience is key. Being able to relax in the moment and capture the right shot is what photography is all about.
[the_ad id=”15900″]Most photographer’s will tell you that the part the enjoy most is getting out a shooting. However, that is just one part of the battle. Editing is a tedious process that requires attention, patience and self awareness. Being able to understand the process of creating an engaging photo will go along way in helping you master your craft faster.
Photo taken by Lance Long of LongShots Media
Creative Mind
This one is a given. Photographers need to be up on trends and able to come up with new concepts quarterly to keep up with competition. Not only do you need business creatively, you also need to think creatively about your craft. What’s going to become your design calling card? What’s your branding signature. As photographer’s grow in the business, they automatically begin to hone their creative style. So it’s just a matter of you getting out there and shooting. Just keep shooting and you will begin to open up new doors and enjoy many rewards on your photographer journey.
Photographer Lance Long of LongShots Media
Conclusion
Although everyone wants to make it big as photographer like Gordon Parks, it is much more likely that most photographers level off at hobbyist. There is a steep learning curve when it comes to photography that requires patience and consistent practice. Nothing is wrong with being a hobbyist, as the practice of photography is rewarding in many ways. Take your time with photography. Find your niche and enhance your skills through practice. You never know where your passion may take you.
