Even if you believe it is easy to become a freelance photographer, the real difficulty lies in turning this passion into a profitable business. There are many reasons that push people to pursue this career, but generally people are attracted to the possibility of extra income: this means that you have to learn to make use of your talent and your time. Read on to learn more.
Steps
Step 1. Choose an area to focus on
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Decide if you want to photograph children, weddings, families, babies, architectural structures or other subjects. You could even become a photojournalist and publish your own services.
Become a Freelance Photographer Step 1Bullet1 - Consider any earnings based on the chosen scope, obviously including the cost of the necessary equipment. Make a realistic calculation.
Step 2. Find out
Study the various photographic styles applied in the fields that interest you.
Do some research on the internet to find out if other people have already walked your path and how they did it. Use all the information at your disposal to understand how to differentiate your services from those of local photographers
Step 3. Consult online or in the library the works of photographers who have dedicated themselves to your field
Take inspiration from those who preceded you.
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Even if you want to create your own style, at first you will find it helpful to emulate the work of others to improve your technique and cultivate your talent.
Become a Freelance Photographer Step 3Bullet1 -
Find ways to make your photography style productive. Learn about the careers of photographers who work in the same field as you: for example, try to understand how Anne Geddes turned a calendar into her first major success.
Become a Freelance Photographer Step 3Bullet2
Step 4. Start gaining experience by dedicating your time to different projects, or perhaps by creating a personal blog dedicated to photography
- Create a nice portfolio by offering your services for free for a variety of projects. In doing so, you will not only gain experience, but you will help people who need your time and talent but are unable to pay you adequately.
- Offer special discounts to attract new customers. At the same time, you will enrich your portfolio to show to families, friends and potential new customers when you start the business.
Step 5. Buy good quality equipment
Choose the equipment that best suits the style you intend to use. The prices of some high-end cameras seem really disproportionate, yet you will easily notice the difference when comparing shots taken with poorer equipment. In the end, it will be worth it.
Step 6. Find a mentor who can teach you some tricks of the trade
- Join a local or online photography association to learn the secrets of the trade; alternatively, you could contact a professional photographer directly.
- By contacting a professional photographer you will also have the opportunity to receive constructive criticism on your work and understand how to improve your style.
Step 7. Create a marketing plan to start your business
You need to advertise your service as much as possible. Twitter and Facebook are great platforms to make yourself known for free. And don't underestimate the importance of a website!
