I am regularly asked how how to become a successful photographer. Of course, the first step is defining what “success” means to them. Does it mean:
- Having a session booked every day of the week?
- Hiring a full time receptionist or office manager?
- Having work published in magazines?
- Winning a photography award?
Regardless of the end goal and how you actually define “success”, I have found there are a number of critical items that must be embraced. That’s why I was so happy to see Skip Cohen’s recent post on “Rules of Engagement” for photographers. Amoung other things, here are three keys he identified:
- Surround yourself with people you respect
- Follow through
- Stay focused
These three items apply to every aspect of life and not just photography. They apply to every “How to Become a Successful _______ ?”
Surround yourself with people you respect. It should go without saying that these people are worthy of your respect as well. Surround yourself with people that can teach you and push you to be a better person and carefully listen to what they have to say. Breathe it. Apply it. The old “You Are What You Eat” axiom applies here. Who are your role models?
A man is known by the company he keeps. Good company can make a man whereas bad company can ruin him.
Follow Through. I don’t think much needs to be said about following through. Say what you are going to do and do what you say. Period. You are only as good as your word. Remember the successful people you are surrounding yourself with from above? How many of them are wishy washy and say one thing but do another? Probably none of them.
Stay focused. This is not the time to let attention deficit challenges creep in. Set your goals and do not let your mind waiver until they have been accomplished. Stay the course.
What are you thoughts on how to become a successful photographer? What does it take? Leave a comment and share your thoughts!
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