Hey there, photography aficionado! If you’ve ever felt like you’re hitting a brick wall in your journey as a photographer, you’re not alone. Drawing inspiration from Justin Mott, an esteemed photographer rooted in Hanoi, Vietnam, we’re going to delve deep into the nuances of the profession to learn how to grow your photography business.
**1. How to grow your photography business: Hard Work is the Name of the Game
Mott passionately argues that many photographers don’t exert themselves enough. This doesn’t just mean firing shot after shot, hoping something will stick. It’s about the mental effort. You’ve got to plan, maneuver, and dedicate those long hours. There’s no substitute for diligence.
Consider wedding photography as an example. Those who remain steadfast in their efforts, from the glamorous portraits to the seemingly mundane moments, stand out. As fatigue sets in, it becomes tempting to relax your standards, but this is when your true dedication shows. After all, every shot is a reflection of your brand.
**2. How to grow your photography business: Your Off Days Should Still Be ‘On’
What’s your routine for the days you’re not on a shoot? If relaxation is all that’s on the agenda, it’s time for a pivot. Days off the field should be about evolution—growing your skills, connecting with industry peers, and laying the groundwork for future projects. Whether it’s diving into Photoshop, dabbling in videography, or dedicating time to a passion project, growth should be at the forefront.
**3. How to grow your photography business: Networking is Your Ladder to Success
In today’s digital age, networking has never been more critical. It’s not just about sending out a flurry of emails but genuinely connecting, both online and offline. Just doing Instagram doesn’t work! Attend events, share your experiences, and remember, your business card can be a golden ticket. However, positivity is paramount. Nobody likes engaging with a perpetual pessimist.
**4. How to grow your photography business: Break Through the Intimidation Barrier
Feelings of intimidation or inadequacy can cripple even the most talented artists. But here’s a nugget of truth: every renowned photographer started from the bottom. They’ve faced setbacks, battled self-doubt, and climbed their way to the top. Embrace your fears, channel them, and let them propel you forward.
**5. Complacency is Your Worst Enemy
The moment you start feeling content, alarm bells should ring. There’s always room for growth and improvement. The industry is continually evolving, and to remain relevant, you must too. Justin’s vision of working with the New York Times was not just a dream but a clear goal. Through networking, continuous self-improvement, and sheer determination, he made it a reality. What’s your New York Times? Identify it, chase it, and most importantly, achieve it.
**6. Patience Paired with Drive is the Perfect Combo
The vastness of the industry can be daunting. But as Mott aptly puts it, “trust the process.” Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither will your photography empire. Remain patient, maintain focus, and never lose sight of your aspirations. With the right blend of perseverance and passion, success is inevitable.
**7. Continuous Learning: The Lifelong Commitment
Another pitfall photographers often succumb to is thinking they’ve learned it all. With technology and trends continuously shifting, there’s always something new on the horizon. Whether it’s a novel editing technique, a new lens in the market, or a different perspective, strive to stay ahead of the curve.
**8. Your Brand is More Than Just Photography
Remember, as a photographer, you’re selling more than just photos. You’re selling an experience, a brand, and, most importantly, a piece of yourself. From the initial interaction with a client to the final product delivery, every step should scream professionalism coupled with a personal touch.
In Conclusion
The journey of photography is one filled with peaks and troughs. However, with dedication, continuous learning, and an undying passion, you can navigate through the challenges and emerge victorious. Drawing inspiration from Justin Mott and countless others who have carved a niche for themselves, it’s evident that with the right mindset and work ethic, the sky’s the limit.
Take a leaf out of Mott’s book. Engage with your peers, soak in feedback, and most importantly, never stop learning. In the realm of photography, the quest for perfection never ends. Gear up, stay inspired, and let every click be a masterpiece in the making.
Credits
This article is inspired by the thoughts and insights shared by Justin Mott
Disclaimer:
This content is derived and paraphrased from the insights provided by Ryan from Signature Edits. It’s crucial to respect intellectual property rights and give due credits for the original content and ideas. For a more in-depth understanding and to access a plethora of insights, it’s recommended to visit Signature Edits.
