faux pas |fō ˈpä; ˈfō ˌpä| noun ( pl. same) an embarrassing or tactless act or remark in a social situation. Synonyms: mistake, blunder, gaffe, indiscretion, impropriety, solecism, barbarism; informal: boo-boo, blooper.
As you may have inferred from the title of this blog, I am a photographer and I intend to share experiences that will hopefully provide some answers for photographers who are just starting out. Some may deem this a dangerous venture as my weaknesses and faults will be on display, but I have a different perspective. Through my mistakes, I have learned invaluable lessons that I want to share so that others might avoid experiencing similar and painful repercussions.
You see, many starting photographers are young, artistic, creative and have high aspirations for their art. Unfortunately, without an understanding of what it takes to run a business, they may be doomed for failure. This is not meant to be discouraging or in any way demeaning, rather, a friendly caution from someone who learned the hard way.
From here on out, I will refer to you, not only as my reader, but as a fellow photographer who may or may not have already started a business.
Creating a successful and thriving photography business takes much more than artistic and technical talent. Owning a business as a sole proprietor in the beginning, often means you are a one-man or one-woman show. You, of course, are the photographer; but you also own the responsibilities of the marketing department, public relations representative, all the way down to the routine maintenance. YOU are the business.
Intimidated? Don’t be. Let’s do this together.
You’ve officially been bookmarked! I love this idea, and appreciate your advice. In my experience, ‘professional’ photographers tend to be rather petulant towards others, especially the young and budding – as if we’re going to steal all their business. I admire your helpful, comradely attitude. (And I promise I won’t come steal your clients.)