Photography professionals?

Question

I need some advice from professional photographers.For example, What kind of job do you have, how did you get it, is the money good, did you need college, and what kind of advice can you give, etc. I appreciate your answers.

Answer 1

I specialise mainly in wedding photography, however I accept many portrait and other event jobs as well. I chose this type although it's the most difficult type of photography because I love being emotionally connected with my clients and of course wedding photography has the most money.
What you must do is align yourself with people who seek your photography services and the jobs will flow in almost effortlessly. Can you imagine how much business you'll get if you're friends with about 4 or 5 wedding planners for example?
The money is great...however if you're just starting out, you shouldn't focus too much on money...after you've made a name for yourself, THEN your rates can go up acceptably. I make quite a lot more now than I did 2 years ago.
One thing about photography, you will NEVER meet a client who asks where did you train and how many years did you study photography...They just want to see your work. Your work is what sells you to them. Later on in the conversation they MAY inquire how long you've been doing it but qualifications (certificates etc) aren't too applicable in photography.
What I must point out however is that you must absolutely LOVE photography in order to be successful in it. If you're only in it for the money, your success rate will be much lower than someone who truly loves the art.
For someone just starting out, it's a great idea to become an assistant to an established photographer so that you learn the business through them BEFORE doing something on your own.
Oh and I almost forgot...one major major MAJOR aspect that can determine your success or failure is your personality...your character...You MUST be a warm friendly person and know how to relate to different people. If you're rude to people they get uncomfortable and they tell their friends about your unruly nature. However in the same way, people love it when you can connect with them on a personal level and they quite readily share your contact info with anyone who needs photography services.
In closing i'll share with you...
I recently did a wedding for a couple from the UK. These people contracted me last year to do business with me. between then and now, we've exchanged several warm emails that have absolutely nothing to do with their wedding photos. We've built a relationship. I enjoyed their wedding day with them and I had a drink with them the day they were leaving...People love when you take a sincere interest in them.
I KNOW my answer has helped.
Thanks for the "Best Answer" vote...lol