By far the single biggest issue that keeps photographers from making a living at what they enjoy is a four letter word called fear. The words fear and self doubt go hand in hand. They feed on each other and support each other as negative traits. Now, if your self doubt comes from the quality of your work, the solution is fairly simple. Learn more and practice, practice, practice. If; on the other hand, the fear that keeps you from moving forward is people, that's a little more complicated.
Someone once said, "All fear is based on anticipation". The thing you need to ask yourself, is what you are anticipating true? Can you prove it? Let's take photography for example. What are some of the fears, or negative thoughts that keep you from selling your photos? They wouldn't like my work. They might say no. They won't like me. They probably already have plenty of pictures.
A) They won't like my work. Basic fact; no one can like or dislike something they have never seen. Let's say you shot pictures at a school play. After the play you see one of the actresses that you have a lot of pictures of. You see her being congratulated by her parents. Now is the time, give them a chance. Notice, I didn't say give yourself a chance. This isn't about you; give the parents and the subject a chance to see your work.
B) They might say no. Ok, I'll admit it is possible. It's also possible I could fall out of bed and break my arm tomorrow; does that mean I should never go to bed again? You have just as much chance they might say yes. If the parents were there, then that probably indicates this event was important to them. If the parents didn't have a camera with them, the odds have just increased in your favor. If they did, then you KNOW they are interested in saving memories and the odds are still in your favor if you take good quality work.
C) They won't like me. As already stated above, this isn't about you. You are providing a service. If you have managed to capture expressions or scenes from a different perspective, then you are offering a gift. You provide memories of experiences both the actor and the parents may never have again.
D) They probably have plenty of photos. Having photos is one thing, having good quality professional looking photos is something else. Even if the parents think they have enough, the subject may want more especially if they make him or her look really good. The people who put on the event may also want some publicity photos for future events. Local newspapers may or may not have had a chance to cover everything going on that night. Sales of good quality photos do NOT have to be restricted to just one buyer.
A famous writer, Annie Dillard once said, "You've got to jump off cliffs all the time and just build your wings on the way down." To me this means, take a chance, and give your self the possibility of success. You can not climb to the top, if your feet never leave the ground. It is possible to make money in photography, but first you must give yourself a chance, and second you've got to give your viewer a chance.
Having the chance to touch the hearts and share memories of a lifetime is not something to fear. Every time you offer someone the chance to purchase your work, you offer them a part of yourself. You are telling them, "I think you, or your daughter, or son is pretty special. That's why I captured this memory." If you think of your services as a gift; you are more likely to succeed, and less likely to have to face the fear factor.
Award winning writer / photographer Tedric Garrison has 30 years experience in photography. As a Graphic Art Major, he has a unique perspective on the Elements of Design and how they relate to photography. His photo eBook; Finding Your Creative Edge in Photography, proves creativity CAN be taught. Tedric shares his wealth of knowledge with the world, at: Better Photo Tips.com
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