Sometimes when we're preparing for something big, even the littlest details can be great burdens. As I continue to develop my passion as a photographer I find that my vision is often fuzzed by minutia - those pesky little tasks or concerns that really shouldn't add up to much. In the next few weeks, as I bounce with confidence having worked a wedding successfully, seen proof in the prints and smiles of the couple, my goal is to get out and shoot. Sure, I need to get a line on the next event, but I must keep myself out in the elements working; working as if I have a client pressing me for the product. There are some local venues that I'd like to shoot, especially surrounding downtown Chapel Hill and UNC, but I really feel that I must secure some portraiture work. To work with people, learn how to sell my services, execute simple poses and lighting techniques well, and get comfortable taking the lead. Perhaps that is my greatest weakness, not shamelessly promoting my work. How do I balance the confidence in my skill, style and quality of work with the concern that others don't care for it? I've been blessed to have unimaginable support from my wife, a talented artist and creator in her own right, and from family and friends, but my audience has to be wider than that.
I've recently started looking beyond myself for business model ideas and marketing strategies for striving photographers. The best example is through an online community called The Photo Argus. With excellent materials exploring the varied avenues professional photography can take, this forum is proving not just inspiring, but also informative. The realities of being a self-employed artist are tough and require more than just talent in the art. I'm looking for the understanding of great business design - something that cannot be done alone.
No comments:
Post a Comment