Life through a lens: Freelance Photography Tips From The Experts Who Have Hosted Our AMA Events

We all see ourselves as amateur photographers (if you think it’s not like that, we’ll remind you that Instagram currently has 300 million monthly active users), but there are more and more those who have the desire to work this job professionally — and according to their own rules! And why not? It means that you are in complete control of your workday, your pace, and how far your career might take you. However, before going any farther, we may want to take a moment to understand exactly what it means to be a freelance photographer.

If you’re thinking of taking this passion a few steps further into starting your own freelance photography business, we have a few important PROS and CONS you should consider before plunging in.

Living Your Dream! If you have the right skills, consumers will trust their time and money on you, hoping that you can produce a visually appealing image that tells a story. There is nothing better than making money doing what you are passionate about. “Do what you love and you’ll never work a day in your life.” Sounds nice, right? I know.

You’ll be your own boss! If you don’t want to work too much during January or February after the holiday season rush, you can just leave your schedule blank or sparsely populated to catch your breath.

Action & adventure. Some photographers work in interesting and adventurous environments. A wildlife photographer may travel to remote areas of Africa or Australia to photograph wild or exotic animals in their native environment. Others may get a thrill from attending major news or sporting events or being able to photograph famous people.

The joy of a great photography! The joy a photograph can bring is undeniable. You can bring joy to other people through your photographs, You don’t believe me? Go shoot a middle school game, and give them the photographs after. They will love it; most of them will probably post it on social media.

Making a difference! The process and creativity behind a great image or photoshoot are always motivating and exciting. But it’s when you deliver your work to a client and see it being used. That’s when you get a real kick out of this job. Whether it’s commercial photography being showcased on global websites and advertising materials, or a landscape which has gone viral on social media, or simply a photo of a father and child which the family have hanging in their living room — there’s a true sense of pride when you see your hard work making a difference.

You never know what might happen! One day you may be at a wedding shoot in your hometown, and the next you could be driving to the tallest building in the capital working on a marketing shoot. Or if you’re lucky, accompanying your client to a beach shoot in a tropical location. Okay, this is the best scenario ever, but you get the point — you’re a freelance photographer, you never know who that next call is coming from and that in itself is an advantage.

You can capture a moment in time! Think about it, you are freezing a moment in time that would otherwise have been forgotten. That’s amazing. That moment can be remembered forever now.

You’ll be your own boss. — Being your boss means being responsible for yourself and your clients, all by yourself. There’s no secretary to schedule meetings, no manager to jot down tasks that need to be done, no sales manager to find clients.

It’s become really competitive. With the advent of cheap digital SLR’s, everyone wants to be a photographer and, while a little competition can be a good thing, the number of amateur photographers working for free to build a portfolio can become a real problem.

Good cameras and gear are expensive. You want everything and you want it now. Well, that’s not going so easy. Being a photographer comes with a price tag. You don’t need to have a good camera to be good but, with today’s technology people want the best possible quality they can have, especially if you are selling images. This means that you have to fork out a good amount of money for the equipment needed.

Income is not guaranteed. Freelance photographers are not guaranteed a salary or regular income. In addition to being skilled at their craft, they must also be good businesspeople and able to market their services. Some freelancers may be forced to accept assignments they don’t want in order to earn a living.

Many clients don’t know what they want. While there’s nothing wrong with expecting perfection from someone you employ, it’s unfair to expect unrealistic results when they’re simply not possible. Eventually, you will be confused and there will be many unforeseeable problems. Make sure you sit down with your client, go through the types of shots they want and show them your portfolio. Have everything written down and agreed upon in advance to avoid any customer disappointments.

Too much time away. Yeah, This is great news when you’re young and have all the time in the world but, when you’re a little older with a family to look after, the last thing you want to do is fly off to the other side of the country to document a conference on sofa sales.

Possible danger. Photographers who work in certain settings may put themselves in harm’s way. A wildlife photographer may run the risk of being attacked by a dangerous animal or slipping and falling in rugged terrain. A news photographer covering a live crime scene or war zone could become caught in the crossfire. Photographers who cover football games run the risk of being hit by a player on the sidelines. Yeah, it’s not funny when it happens to you.

The opportunity to work on your own, without having to answer to anyone might sound great, but you might not be sure exactly where to start. It’s not an easy business to get into, nor is it an easy one to stay in. That’s why we’ve created a short guide for all beginners who want to become freelance photographers. Also, we’ve gathered a group of excellent photographers from our AMA Events, who have solid advice for aspiring freelance artists.

PURCHASE YOUR EQUIPMENT

The first thing you’ll need when it comes to starting a photography business is a good equipment. Yes, it’s a difficult part — especially when you have a tight budget. In that case, don’t forget next tip -spend your money wisely and please don’t go into debt buying camera gear! There are plenty of options out there to consider. Some work better in certain situations than others, so you’ll want to do a lot of research on what models will work best for your particular niche.

The Camera — A digital camera will give you all kinds of flexibility with taking photographs both on site and in a studio. Choose a model with which you are comfortable. Make sure the camera you choose is compatible with different lenses.

Lenses — Purchase one or two lenses. You should always have a wide angle lens in tow as well as a telephoto lens. These two lenses will give you an ability to shoot distances and you will be able to zoom in and take very close up photographs of your subject, without a lot of additional background detailing. So once you start making some income, we recommend that you spend some of that money to purchase new lenses.

Background and stands — If you plan on taking photographs in a studio, you will need to invest in a couple different backgrounds and stands. This is not essential if you are solely looking to take photographs at events or on location.

Memory cards — You will need to keep many memory cards in tow in order to have the ability to take many different photographs while on location.

Camera bag — A camera bag is something everyone should have. If you are just starting out, purchase a bag that has a bunch of different compartments and zippers.

Lighting — Start with one light. From there, you can eventually add a fill light, or a hair light, or maybe just a reflector to the one side. Really, keep it simple. Don’t just randomly add more lights — from your test images, figure out what you need to add, or what you need to take away. Until you have the confidence and can swagger a bit in the studio, make simplicity the key to successful portraits in the studio. Of course, these are the most basic things you need to get started. Later, when your business turns over more, you’ll be able to start upgrading your equipment. it’s very easy to get caught in the never-ending cycle of buying things to “help your business”. It’s not hard to convince yourself that if you just had that better lens, you’d take better photos, and your business would be more successful. And that may be true, and maybe not. You’ll figure it out when the time comes.

CHOOSE YOUR FIELD

Say it with me — I do not have to master it all. When it comes to photography, there can sometimes be this strange assumption that we are (or should be) experts in all types of photography. The answer is simply to try everything you can. A niche puts you in the “red umbrella in a sea of black” category, establishing you and your business as one of a kind. Trying different types of photography is very different than feeling compelled to master every type of photography. Giving different genres of photography a try in low stakes (often unpaid) environments allows you to experiment, and to discover what it is that you really love.

It also requires possibly humbling yourself a bit and allowing yourself to be taught by someone else. Even if you’re the best wedding photographer in your state or area, you may not know the first thing about being a wildlife photographer. So if you really want to learn, you have to be ready and willing to be taught.

Just like our AMA Host did! From the jungles of Uganda and walking with lions to the frozen Arctic, Chris Fischer showcases the beauty and majesty that exists in all the corners of our world. This Wildlife VR filmmaker and a photographer taking us on the journey of a lifetime! He is the lead filmmaker for The All Around Project, a 360 Wildlife Film Project, aimed at filming the most endangered animals on the planet in immersive and breathtaking 360-degree video. Unlike traditional nature film, his approach is minimalistic and allows people to simply be with the animals and in their habitats.

“Photography is an expensive hobby, it is also an expensive profession. But I have never considered it a hobby, it is simply a part of who I am. There are a lot of ways to make money in photography, but it all depends on what the individual person wants to do. I personally do not pursue any paid jobs, I don’t do weddings or portraits . . . it isn’t something I am passionate about, so why do it. I photograph because I love what I photograph, not because I love photography. To me, photography is a passion, not a career or a profession. I don’t photograph for anyone other than myself really, just so happens I make money doing it, and to do anything other than that would compromise why it is a part of my life. My compensation typically comes down to selling fine art prints, I don’t spend as much time on that as I should, but when I do, I do well enough.”

You also asked him how he films wildlife documentaries to such a close proximity without disturbing the animals’ behavior, and here’s what Chris said:

“My utmost concern, beyond my safety and that of my crew, is the safety of the animals. Getting the shot is very very far down the list. There is no shot that is worth an animal getting hurt over and I keep that in mind with everything that I do. These rigs can and do spook animals, so being mindful of how they will respond, and in which direction. When in the middle of a hard film location there is constant communication about camera placement and car placement. We also work very hard to anticipate animal movement so the camera can be set up, and filming, long before the animal approaches. This allows for an animal to approach at their comfort and not feel pressured or put off by our presence. Respecting their space goes a long way. “

“I also operate with a very small crew, often just myself and a guide or two. This is extremely valuable as we get much more natural animal interactions and behaviors. We want to create real, authentic wildlife encounters for our viewers and to do that, we need to create real and natural interactions in the field. That requires a small crew, non-invasive film techniques and a huge deal of patience. You will never get a good elephant video if there are 4 cars filled with multiple people, but with a single car, and small camera rigs, we can often operate without the animals really knowing we are there. That is the key.”

There are many steps that you will need to consider when trying to become a travel photographer. One of those steps is definitely the choice of the right camera. If you think this is a right niche for you, here’s the first-hand advice!

“Another tough one, but it depends on how portable you need it to be, what you need to accomplish, and what your budget is. A GoPro can do wonders but lacks a lot of bells and whistles that makes final products much better. You can get them underwater ready very inexpensively which is quite handy as well. Something like a Sony a7r, a small, lightweight camera that can handle a lens or two, attach the microphone, and can make a number of adjustments. There are a lot of camera’s between those two and will depend on what size you are looking for and what your budget really is.”

People tend to gravitate towards outside the box thinking and imagery. In the case of photography, being different involves giving people glimpses of the unexpected or unusual. There are tons of landscape and sunset images around, but what about capturing the glow of a sunrise (pretty) on dumpsters (not so pretty) or snap away as the golden flickers of a sunset create wonderful texture on a rusted, abandoned car? In other words, casting the otherwise “ugly” or ignored in a breathtakingly beautiful light often intrigues others. Dare to be different.

If you’ve ever been interested in a photography, then you’ve certainly heard of famous names such as Richard Avedon and Guy Bourdin. Our AMA host Gillian Hyland creates supernatural staged images, presented as film stills or dramatic moments. Hyland’s unsettling mise-en-scene is full of sex and desire, sadness and nostalgia. Narratives that are psychologically evocative — at once sublimely theatrical yet poignant. She describes herself as an image maker and storyteller. Her dramatic photographs are based on her own poems and depict characters in human dramas and isolated emotional situations. Frozen in time, solitary and vulnerable moments are presented in glorious technicolor and timeless sets.

If you want to start a career in a similar niche, but you do not know how and where to find a passion for it, Gillian gave us the advice:

“Think about what inspires you and take time to understand what makes you happy or interests you, to create something personal you need to first decide what your intention for that work is, this doesn’t happen overnight but by researching at work by others you enjoy you’ll start to know what you like and that is the first step. I try to create an image when has an emotional essence to it, so the viewer feels something when they look at it.”

You asked her about things she likes and things she dislikes when it comes to her current career choice, and here’s what she said:

• I dislike how isolated it can be.
• I dislike how other photographers are not honest about their situation or how they create.
• I dislike how everyone tries to exude an air of achievement rather than being honest.
• I ❤ making images that exist in my head and working with a people who are committed to that vision.
• I ❤ traveling & challenging myself & trying to connect & understand a culture so different to my own.
• I❤ that I decided to make my life&work about being vulerable&brave in areas I’m not comfortable with

BUILD A PORTFOLIO

Even if you have never had photographs published or publicly displayed, you can start a portfolio of your best work and then add onto it if you win photography contests or start receiving paid work.

A strong portfolio is the first thing you would need to start a freelance photography career. It should include samples of your work and show potential clients that you have the skills and experience demanded by their photography project. However, it is important to assess the strengths and weaknesses of a picture before including it in your profile.

All such photos can decorate your portfolio and convince potential clients of your ability and skills in using the camera to capture moments in real time. You may want to choose a theme for your portfolio and include an appealing statement outlining your experience and feelings about the subject matter. It would help to include relevant certifications in your portfolio.

Once you’ve done with choosing photos, you’ll need to display it on your website. Check out the Envira Gallery Albums Addon to add a stunning portfolio to your website.

MARKET YOURSELF

Starting a photography career may seem like a daunting task initially. However, once you understand the nuances of the business, everything will fall into place then. To start with, you need to build a client base. Try leaving your marketing material with local businesses that attract customers. You may have the best photography skills in the world, but you may not see any success until potential clients know about you. Show potential customers that what you are doing is interesting and valuable. Go out of the box to impress clients and get business.

GET YOUR FIRST CLIENTS

After you’ve brushed up on your photography skills and started building your portfolio, your next challenge is getting clients. When you are wondering how to become a photographer, it may help to join online freelancing marketplaces and forums. Connect with your target audience in mobile on-demand platforms that have become a hub of freelancers. Peer Hustle is one such freelance marketplace where you can connect with potential customers and impress them with your portfolio and skills and get started.

Attend events with your camera in hand

One of the best ways to get your new customers is to go to events in your area. It does not matter what kind of event — just remember to take your camera with you. Your purpose there is to meet people, but also to offer to take their pictures. If they love your results, they may use your services or refer you to others.

Start your blog

One way to establish yourself as a serious photographer, and thereby draw in your clients, is by setting up your own blog. This could be part of your website, or it could be a free Blogger or WordPress site.

Sell your photos through stock website

Many freelance photographers eventually establish a very steady and consistent stream of income through these sites which allow all kinds of people to purchase and download copyright-free photographs. Consider that many advertising agencies, publishing firms, graphic designers, and even large corporations use stock imagery on a daily basis. This means it is a fantastic way to get your proverbial foot in the door and to develop an ongoing audience.

Network with all industries

Not only should you be making connections with people in your industry or those closely related (such as photo production, studios, etc.), but also as many industries as possible.

.Use social media and join social media groups

The best platform for you to spread your art is on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, and others. Social media now primarily depends on visual information so photographers would be really remiss by not engaging in that huge potential market. Try your best to do photo releases in a regular time frame (with a watermark) or whenever the mood hits you.

Volunteer at fundraisers

Fundraisers present a great opportunity for photographers. Because they operate on free services and products being offered, you can volunteer your time. As each fundraiser is an event, it is worthy (and desired by the organizers) to be photographed. They would be happy to have your services, and you could end up rubbing shoulders with local philanthropists. You’ll definitely either get new clients or great referrals.

Enter photography competitions

One other way is to enter photography competitions. These will help you in two ways:

• you could get some money or exposure by being featured in a recognized publication or website
• you could use the winning event as a way to advertise yourself

CREATE A SCHEDULE

Successful people must keep a schedule. Once you start getting a steady flow of clients, you will have a lot of tasks to complete each day, and it’s important to have a detailed schedule. Catalogue all of your projects and make sure you are able to easily trace any specific file that you may need later.

DO NOT FORGET TO CONTINUE EDUCATING YOURSELF!

Continuing education is important for freelance photographers because it helps you to raise the bar for yourself and renew your passion for your work. Attend a local photography workshop, sign up for a community college course, or study an online course.

The photography industry has room for everyone with its various niches and genres, ensuring that whether your talents are with creative or technical, there is a place for you somewhere. We’re keeping our fingers crossed — good luck!

• All photographs used are property of their respective owners!

Written by our genius blogger Tina based on advice from our great Hosts in www.ArtistAMA.com and originally published on www.AMAfeed.com