Getting started as a photographer.

[Billy Ocean]

I just started shooting a few months ago so I've got a lot I need to learn. I'd like to get involved with some type of freelance work at some point but I'm not sure how to start. If I volunteer/intern for a while I figured I could get a good education, I suppose I'd like to be a photo journalist for locals newspapers or magazines. Could anybody suggest a good place to start, or a good approach to getting involved.

A friend of mine suggested I speak to somebody at the Village Voice in NY (I live on Long Island) but they never got back to me... any advice would be appreciated.

BTW I have a Canon Digital Reb stock lens with PS Essentials 2.0, and I'm willing/planning to upgrade my lenses and software.

[Vegas Poboy]

I would start with school and get a good understanding of photography overall. While that is going on look for an internship but most studios want you to have some experience.
I know the world is going digital slowly but the same basic principles of photography applies both to film and digital. Also learn about lighting, how to use availible light, fill flash etc. The school or good studio can help point you in the right direction.

For example I decided I would visit a local studio & show off my portfolio looking for work as an intern. The photographer has 20+ years of working in the business world. Every photo in the lobby was huge and cyrstal clear, no photoshop (old school Maymiya RZ & RB). He then asked me questions on lighting & film. I was ready for it but it caught me off guard. So it's good to get some type of formal training while looking to get into the art/ business.

[robertwgross]

There are probably some nonprofit organizations that would like some donated photography. For example, if you were a fan of animals, then there is probably some animal rescue organization that would like some photos taken for publicity purposes. A community recreation center might need some photography. It isn't much, but it is a start.

Then, once you've done that for a while, send one of your best photos to the publication and see if you get a better response.

Find a professional wedding photographer, and offer to be his free assistant for five weddings.

---Bob Gross---

[mikesd]

Excellent suggestions from Poboy and Bob, you might also check with your areas fundraising orginizations, some that I continue to do on a volunteer basis are, official photographer for our local Relay for Life functions and I do the video of our Christmas Parade which I edit to DVD and sell with proceeds going to the Christmas Light Commitee. Not only will these types of things get you some exposure and publicity, its also a good feeling to contribute your talent to some good causes.Sorry about this next line as Im sure you have heard it plenty but I loved your music back in the 80's Billy.

[Billy Ocean]

Thanks. School really isn't an option for me as I work full time, however I'm also checking around to see if there are any free classes or workshops available. I appreciate the advice.

[Mike Panic]

www.photo.net/making-photographs - its geared towards film but read it, twice

before you even think of selling your services, make sure you have something of value to offer. shoot stuff you are into and then build a porfolio. for example, if your into import cars, start going to drag races import car shows and drift events. post photos here and on other forums like www.iphotoforum.com and check your ego at the door. ask for and take real critique on the photos. ask how you can improve on them and take notes, lots and lots of notes. when you have some stuff built up, contact people in the industry you are interested in, using the import car thing again, contact online magazines, local car/truck shops who do custom work, car clubs, etc. take things from there, its worked for me VERY well in several differant areas of photography including import cars, electronic music industry and product photography

dont be afraid to email photo editors either... just have a strong porfolio

[robertwgross]

Somebody needs to fix this link.

---Bob Gross---

[RichardtheSane]

I can't fix it but I can make it bigger and bolder in a post nearby

http://www.photo.net/learn/making-photographs/

[Billy Ocean]

http://www.photo.net/learn/making-photographs/

[defordphoto]

Originally Posted by robertwgross

Somebody needs to fix this link.

---Bob Gross---

Done.

[NJDrew]

I don’t know if you are into imports or more over drifting, but if you are and you want to try your hand at it, let me know. I do 90% of the photo work for DGTrials who run drift events mostly at Englishtown, NJ. So getting you out on the track past the stands is no problem.

P.S. That’s open to you too mike if you want.

[Billy Ocean]

Originally Posted by NJDrew

I don’t know if you are into imports or more over drifting, but if you are and you want to try your hand at it, let me know. I do 90% of the photo work for DGTrials who run drift events mostly at Englishtown, NJ. So getting you out on the track past the stands is no problem.

P.S. That’s open to you too mike if you want.

thanks, I really appreciate that. It would be great to hang out with a pro and learn... I will look into the schedule and see if anything is possible, I live in NY so it might be a little while before I could get out there.