how can i break into the photography world?

Question

I have been hand crafting peoples picture frames for ten years to a very high standard people who use my service always come back.
But i am also a very keen photographer and have been for well over twenty years
Ihave a large selection of my own work but am finding it hard to get a break
I have sold a lot of my work but only to local people.
I always frame my work which i think helps the sale.
any advice would be most welcome thanks.

Answer 1

Have you thought about putting up a website? That could help expand your market area. I see that someone else has recommended a microstock site and it you have a good body of work that may be for you.

If you are into listening to MP3 files I'd highly suggest going to a website like iTunes and subscribing to some of the pro photography podcasts. They are free, many offer good tips, and in general they are inspirational. I listen to several, but one I like is called the "Simple Photo Minute" which is also available through their simplephotolife.com website. That site is oriented toward wedding photography but I features very talented people and I think it helps to surround yourself with folks like that.

From the business side of me I'd say that you definitely have to look at your market. I see businesses open all the time that I know will not make it where I live because the market is just too small. The web and that networking ability helps to expand markets to levels not available just a few years ago.

Believe in yourself and showcase your talent. Set yourself some goals and push your limits.

Answer 2

I assume you've contacted local galleries, restaurants, banks, bookstores and spoken with them about displaying your work. County and state fairs also often have competitions to get your work out there.
Smaller shops might let you put a display with postcard/giftcard on commision. Get creative! Offer your services in exchange for shelf space.
You haven't mentioned what type of photography you want to persue. Weddings? Senior pictures? Stock photography? You've surely got friends with kids. Do a couple of senior pictures for the advertising. Have your friends kids market your work at school :)

Answer 3

First, get plenty extra journey at college and comunity theatre until eventually now even thinking of going expert. i'm specific there is numerous comunity theatre in the South Florida/Miami section, so get numerous things, huge and small, below your belt until eventually now branching out to the area of expert appearing. you're purely 15 you have have been given a large variety of time.

Answer 4

www.istock.com <= upload photos on this website
www.gettyimages.com <= contact them to learn more about how they purchase photography

go to lots of local graphic design, and web design events to get to know local art directors, marketing people, web designers, graphic artists... they will be seeking photographers for projects