I believe the number one mistake that 'photographers' make is not investing in their business.
This is an expensive business... but in my personal opinion... it's only a hobby if you're not willing to invest back into it.
In this industry... you have to spend money in order to make money. Simple as that.
I remember just starting out. I KNOW how expensive it is to build up a 'stash' of good quality equipment.
Hell, I still have things on my wish list.
But I tell ya, sticking with a kit-lens and a point and shoot -- shooting on auto and not knowing your camera... is not running a business.
I didn't start excelling until I took my first workshop -- it was like an entirely different world had been opened up for me.
Selling my 'starter kit' and buying my first prime was a game changer for the quality of my work.
Invest in your gear -- slowly if you have to.... Invest in workshops -- one year at a time if you have to.
But invest.
The second biggest mistake I think 'photographers' make is not knowing their gear.
Having an incredible camera is great.... but if you have no idea how to work it. Rut-roh. Pointless.
If you are charging people and taking up their time - You should know your camera inside and out.
When I worked as an Armed Response Officer -- if we had a rifle or pistol malfunction we had to figure out what was going on....
And we had to figure it out ASAP.
Potentially, our lives were at risk..... and we had to know our gear perfectly.
It's the same with our cameras.... minus the life being at risk part... maybe not THAT big of a deal! ha!
I think the third mistake that 'photographers' make is "not knowing".
Yes... you DO need a business license...
Yes... you DO need to be insured.
Did you know that a lot of venues actually require proof of these things.
Playing the 'I didn't know card' doesn't really work in this day and age.
Google it.
Ask around.
Professional photographers these days are MORE than willing to help others.
When I first started in this journey -- photographers were stingy.
Let me just call it like I see it.
NO ONE was willing to help ANYONE.
Information was sacred.
But today.... 2012 -- things are not like that.
So no more playing innocent.
If you want to be respected.... if you want to be a respected BUSINESS.
Invest... Learn.... Operate Legally.
And never stop growing.
A little tough-love ninja-chop this Friday morning
Hearts and hugs people... Hearts. Hugs and Ninja kicks.
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