Turning Pro

[tim]

I've been considering trying to turn pro, but i'm unsure how to proceed. Obviously it's not something that'd happen overnight, i'd imagine it could take some time - i'd probably set my timeframe as years, hopefully not too many. I've been reading some magazines and newsletters, and there are many comments by professionals about how people buy themselves a digital camera and try and sell their services, and they're quite condescending about the whole idea.

So how do you go pro, if you want to do it properly? Doing a full time degree or diploma isn't a great option for me, I couldn't go back to that lifestyle and lack of money. Interestingly, my former photography teacher told me a comment he'd heard someone say, that the best students tend to drop out and get jobs within the first year of their course. I've seen pros that are worse than many serious amateurs too. I've also been talking to a 5th year photography student who works at my gym, she's scared to use a flash, and didn't learn how to use studio strobes until the 2nd year of her course. I plan to learn them by reading a book and trying it out myself. Of course all this assumes i'm good enough, which the market will decide I guess.

So, any thoughts, tips, or suggestions? I'm only interested in hearing from professionals.

[tim]

Thanks bloo, as always I appreciate your advice and your words of encouragement :)

[MTalley]

I've learned more from Bloo Dog's posts than from all my Googling of the internet trying to learn more about photography. Excellent words of wisdom, Bloo.

My aspirations are to turn "pro" by the time I retire from my normal 8 to 5 job. That gives me about 19 more years to perfect my craft. :D

I think I'll sit down now with the approx. 1200 pictures I've taken with my DRebel and analyze the mistakes. That's a really good exercise.

[tim]

I agree, Bloo's posts are about the most helpful on this forum. I do try to learn from my mistakes, for example, here (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=75678) is the list of things I learned from my first wedding. I have a slightly bigger set I wrote up for myself.

[LisaMarie]

Hi Tim,

I second everything Bloo has told you. In regards to learning how to use/manipulate your equipment. You might consider joining the Photographic Society of New Zealand if you are not already a member. They will offer you educational opportunities and camaraderie along the way.

Do you belong to a local camera club ?

You seem to network very well and ask lots of questions which is excellent foundation work.



Once you can demonstrate proficiency in using your knowledge you will be the one deciding if you are ready, not the market !

[tim]

Thanks LisaMarie. I'm not a member of the PSONZ yet, I just printed the from to join now :) I'm also a member of a local club, I don't think i've learned a thing since I joined actually, and i'm one of 2 or 3 people who have a clue about digital. Photography is a passion for me, and it seems to be of passing interest for most people in the club. I'm pretty good with my equipment, I can use it blindfolded (except for the viewfinder ;) ), the main thing I need is more experience. Thanks for your help :)

[mkh]

Marry an orphan.

Great way to cut down on having to take pictures of realtives and family reunions.

Also cuts down on the number of birthday and Christmas presents you receive.

Seriously, take lots of photos. Analyze the good and the bad. Give yourself (or find on the web) photo assigments then submit them to the critique forums. Note - analyze them first yourself then post to see if others agree or see things you didn't catch.