|
I was forced recently to not go to a reasonably well paid job with little else by way of alternative for me. (Long story, so won't bore you ! ). So I decided to take the leap of faith and set up as a Pro photographer. I DO feel like a fraud because I didn't study at uni, nor have I been a photographer for 20 years or more, but, I do now earn a living from photography. I DO pay my taxes, I HAVE set up all the relevant insurances etc so it's all legal and above board, not to mention a tad expensive !! And yet, I do struggle to come to terms with the phrase 'Pro'. I still consider myself a semi pro at the most. Also, don't let not having a Canon Mk5d MK 2 or 3 bother you, get one when the money is there. I manage extremely well with my 60d for both video and stills.
Ii have a very basic set up at home for a studio and I spend most days pooping myself about where the next job is going to come from or whether or not I'm up to the job. But, to give an example, last week I was unexpectedly required to take a profile pic of a UK celebrity, I didn't know about it until 12 hours beforehand and I was quaking in my boots ! When the time came, it was fine, I did what I could to the best of my knowledge and experience and it was all fine. He even asked for a business card ! You just never know !
Ii think finding a niche or genre helps, and it sounds like you already have done that. I have yet to find mine !
And finally, although I'm supposed to be 'the photographer' I'm still very open indeed to being a photographer's assistant, or general dogs body for a day or two. Any experience is worth experiencing ! it adds to and aids your confidence when dealing with your own clients in the future.
Don't know if any of this helps, but it made me feel better by airing and sharing :-)
|