How To Become A Professional Photographer.
After working professionally in the industry as a food, product, interiors, and portrait photographer for over 30 years, I have found myself reflecting on the experience I had as a young man starting out. How difficult it was to break into the industry, with no one around me to look to for guidance. There are so many things I know now that I wish someone could have shared with me back then. It has now become part of my mission to do exactly this, to be that source of knowledge I never had. To make others journeys that little bit easier by giving what I know.
Thus I found a platform that allowed me to start sharing and creating. The experience of making these photography workshop videos has been one of the most rewarding and enjoyable parts of time as a photographer. It is the greatest gift to give back to the community. I believe the opportunity to explore photography should be accessible to everyone, not only those who can afford to study and go to school. It is this these videos I hope to provide an affordable and valuable resource that caters to all levels of experience.
Every Photography workshop is made in real time on a real photography shoot, nothing is staged or filtered. Join me on this unique journey where I will share with you all of my photography skills, knowledge and experience from over 3 decades as a working in food, product, advertising, portrait photographer. Teaching not only how to achieve a great photo but also how to navigate issues as they arise.
Find all the photography workshops online at Studio80Sydney.
To help kick start your journey as a photographer, as well as access to the tutorials, here’s a list of equipment you will need to get your hands on. (Items with the * are the most important and should be prioritised first. Everything else is great to have but not essential.)
Your Photography Kit-
A pro level camera (Cannon Or Nikon) Gumtree and Ebay have some second hand options for great prices.*
A great place to start with lenses Is with either A 70-200mm Or 24-70mm. *
Camera Tether Cord, if you want to shoot straight to the computer (this is recommended).
Alternatively an SD card will work if you want to shoot straight to camera.*
Two Lights (‘Pro Photo’ is best) but again you don’t have to spend big, there’s some great second hand options online.*
Depending on the lights you get, you may need A ‘Flash Trigger’ to connect the camera to the lights.
Equipment kit including; Gaffa Tape, at least 2 clamps, Micro Fibre Cloths, Grey Card (these can be quite pricey so again not essential) and A hard drive to back up your work.*
Roll of trace paper (this is A cheap and easy way to achieve light diffusion without spending big on A Soft Box).*
Strip Light Diffuser and or Soft Box (should you have A little extra to spend).
2x C-Stands.
2x Sand Bags.
‘Capture One’ is the industry standard of photography software to use.*
Professional photography requires a lot of practise, time, and commitment. Here are some actions you can do to begin your path to professional status:
Learn the fundamentals of photography: Be familiar with terms like composition, ISO, shutter speed, and aperture. To build a strong foundation in these areas, enrol in a class, study books, or watch online tutorials.
Invest in a nice camera: A camera of the highest calibre is a necessity for any photographer. Purchase a camera with manual controls and a wide range of lenses.
Practice, practise, practise: You'll get better at shooting the more you do it. Create a photographic project for yourself, and devote continuous time to it. To hone your talents and discover your personal style, experiment with various subjects, lighting conditions, and settings.
Study other photographers' work: Examine the compositions and approaches of other photographers whose work you love.
Create a portfolio of your greatest work: Begin compiling a portfolio of your best work as you acquire experience and sharpen your talents. This will be a fantastic resource for showcasing your skills to potential customers.
Attend photography events, sign up for photography groups, and take part in online photographic communities to network and promote your work. You can also attract clients by developing a strong online presence via social media and a reputable website.
Learn about the business side of photography, including how to set your rates, bargain with customers, and manage contracts and invoicing.
Keep in mind that developing into a good photographer requires time and patience. But you can succeed if you put in the necessary effort, are committed, and are open to learning.
Get a taste of what to expect in food, portrait, advertising, interior photography from the Studio80Sydney channel with these video’s below!
