Gold doubloons

I can already hear the ” Oh yes it is! ” and the ” Oh no it’s not! ” but there is no wrong answer to this question, it’s about perspective.

First, let’s take care of a few myths

a) It’s amazing to count the amount of people & students that say they want to become pro photographers and live among models and celebrities and count the cash they’ve made simply by pressing a little button and adding a few after effects. After all, like many think, it’s real easy in this digital age! I don’t mean to blow anyone’s bubble but;

  1. If it’s that easy, why aren’t you rich yet?
  2. If it’s that easy where are all your celebrity friends? and NO twitter doesn’t count LOL
  3. If it’s that easy then your a dime a dozen and no one will want to pay for your services.

b) Then there are the “I’ll do weddings! 1 a week at 1200$ and I make 60k a year!!”

  1. Yes, you will. now go on and book 52 weddings.
  2. Subtract all appropriate equipment: 2 camera bodies and a bunch of lenses
  3. 400+ photos to go through, a few hundred to retouch and balance
  4. insurance
  5. assistant (highly recommended)
  6. and all other expenses including taxes

Ok, so maybe it’s not that easy?!

In my experience being a photographer is, first and foremost, about self expression and art. Like a painting, hence the name: photo=light, Graphy=painting/drawing. Being a Professional Photographer adds an edge… express your client’s vision through your art and style. What will make you successful is how well you do this,  how much you love doing it.

So what about the money? well, Yes you need and Must be able to pull in some good numbers. Not to live like a king because you wont! You need the money to sustain your way of life! Photography is an expensive career and passion. One that asks you to continually invest.

Once this is done, keep the rest to feed yourself and your family! So yes, in a way, It’s also about the Money.

 

 

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