Insight on the Industry: Advice from a Master Photographer
This day and age, we are a part of a generation that wants everything yesterday. If we want to find an answer to something, Google is generally right at our fingertips. If we want to make travel or dinner reservations, with just a few simple clicks we can arrange an entire itinerary without having to speak to single representative or even get up from our seats. This has caused us to become impatient in so many ways. For instance, prior to all of these advancements in technology, a professional photographer was someone who attended various workshops and conventions, spent hundreds, sometimes thousands on equipment, and interned or studied their craft for years until it was mastered. Now, there are self-proclaimed “professional photographers”, who use nothing more than a smart phone or a name brand camera and have spent weeks, maybe months practicing photography.
We linked up with one of our long time friends, portrait artist and educator Judy Host, to get some insight on how patience and education may be the key to a successful photography business. “ I’ve been self employed for over 20 years.” Judy told us. “I’d say having a passion for what you do and understanding the importance of a good business plan are essential if you want to be successful. Also, work hard, and have a strong support system. ” Judy became interested in photography in high school at the age of 15. After graduation, she went on to CSUN for her postsecondary education and received her degree in Speech Communications, which she said was very useful when it came to starting her own business. In addition, she also is a PPA trained Master of Photography and Photographic Craftsman. “There is a lot of training out there for new photographers, my advise would be to get as much training as possible before you start selling your work.”
Learning in this industry is a never-ending process; there’s always new equipment being developed, new software, new accessories, etc. Every photographer has their own personal preferences and styles, so there is no specific combination of items that are necessary in order to thrive. When mastering your craft, it may take some trial and error before you find the right set of items that works for you, but don’t allow that set you back. “I have my Canon cameras, Sigma lenses and I use Adobe Photoshop on my Mac. Altogether they help me to create an amazing product for my client.”
All and all, during a time where everyone is impatient, one thing we can’t rush is expertise and success. And that’s fine, there’s no rush. Take your time, do your research, study, learn from others, consistently work toward reaching your ultimate potential, and don’t be afraid to try new things while discovering your personal style and mastering your craft. “I’m currently working on 2 new projects, Photo Encaustics (the art of pouring hot wax over your images), and Mixed Media, photographing Ballet Dancers. All of us artists need to have our own personal projects to help keep the inspiration flowing.”
Judy will be offering two private tours to Cuba in 2017. The first has sold out already, however, there are still openings for the second tour from March 28th-April 1st. There are also opportunities to join Judy at Photo-Encaustic retreats in Sonoma from July 16th-19th of 2016, and in Sedona from September 30th — October 3rd, 2016. Also, she always offers private, one-on-one training. If interested, please reach out to her directly via the contact information below.
Judy also extends a special “Thank you” to her family, friends, students, sponsors, and her husband.
To learn more about Judy Host, or to contact her, please check out her website and social media accounts:
https://www.facebook.com/judy.host
