Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 2000/01/06
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]I may be in a unique position to speak about going pro as a career, not because I am earning my living as a photographer but because I am the Publisher/Editor/Owner of a monthly trade magazine for the professional film/video industry and have been so for almost 20 years now. In my position I work with people on both sides of the camera in many different genres; TV commercials, features, documentaries, corporate, government, etc. etc. Still photography would be applicable to all the same genres. So I think that I am in a position to see who makes it and who does'nt, so, I will try to apply the same advice to still photographers that I routinely give to budding cinematographers trying to break into the business. First; It is a glamourous business that pays well where there is much competition for work. Second; Now that you have that degree from a film school don't plan on starting at the top, in fact, you will probably be better off starting at the bottom as a production assistant and serving an old fashioned apprenticeship and work your way to the top. Third; One of the problems that you will face is getting a client to hire you, especially when they already have a stable of freelance DP's with a track record. So, by being on the set even as a production assistant (PA) you will meet many potential clients and maybe they will even ask you to get them a cup of coffee. Just being there and getting known and expressing your intentions is how you work your way up the ladder. Fourth; Try to hook your star to somebody who has already made it. Fifth; When not working be constantly on the telephone drumming up business. Network, network, network. Sixth; Read the daily business press and trade magazines religiously. Seventh; Make no enemies. Eigth; Do not buy ANY equipment because whatever you own will probably be wrong for the job you are hired for--Renting equipment is better. Ninth; The biggest key to success is showing up. I have given this advise to hundreds of people and a few have made it to the top, most have'nt. There are many, many factors at play in a business like this but if you really want it and you have the talent, marketing skills and luck you can make it. Good luck. By the way, I am the one who gives assignments to still photographers for my magazine if I don't shoot it myself. Steve Annapolis www.icommag.com