Why You Shouldn't Quit Photography: Discover These Opportunities
Many people have a deep passion for photography and aspire to become successful photographers. They invest heavily in cameras and lenses, attend workshops, and continuously strive to improve their skills. They spend countless hours experimenting with different techniques, engage in latest trends and use different post-processing techniques.
However, some often switch cameras, thinking their lack of success is due to their gear. Others believe it’s because they haven’t traveled enough, lack professional training, don't have the right mentor, or have low social media engagement. Each person has a different reason for believing they haven't succeeded in the photography industry.
While some of these reasons are valid, many photographers do work hard to overcome their challenges yet still get lost and eventually quit. Thinking photography isn’t for them or that the world isn’t fair. Some even develop bitter feelings toward the industry after sour experiences.
Let me share an important insight I’ve gathered from reviewing countless portfolios. Many photographers have a keen eye for identifying perfect moments but struggle with execution. The composition or angle is often off, making it difficult for viewers to appreciate or even notice the intended subject in the frame.
I believe that knowing what to photograph is as crucial as knowing how to photograph.
Many photographers miss the ‘how to photograph,’ leading to unfulfilled potential despite knowing ‘what to photograph’. Executing one’s vision effectively is an art, and some photographers, even after decades, still haven’t mastered the ‘how’ resulting in missed opportunities and great disappointment.
Often, it’s not a lack of talent but a lack of understanding of how to execute that holds photographers back. Some struggle due to constant cognitive overload, limited artistic vision, lack of adaptability, or inconsistent quality of work. Inadequate practice can also be a significant hindrance. Many photographers don’t practice enough but look for quick results. I've been photographing for over two decades and still feel there is much more to learn and explore.
Interestingly, I've noticed that many photographers excel in areas far beyond the realm of taking pictures. Their talents often extend into writing, where their ability to articulate the essence of their work in words is exceptional. They have a talent for writing captivating captions and giving evocative titles to their photos. They craft captivating and engaging content and blogs on their websites. This skill could even lead to innovative ventures, such as developing an app for writing personalised titles and captions for photographers.
Also I’ve discovered, many photographers have a knack for curating social media pages with impressive skill, revealing their potential as outstanding curators. They could curate for online magazines or work with book publishers, or collaborate with galleries. Many also often shine as editors. Their proficiency in editing not only enhances their photos but also brings out the best in their visual storytelling. They could become the best photo editors in the world, working for top companies.
Also when it comes to self-promotion, some ensure their work reaches a wider audience. Their marketing acumen could lead to a successful career in promoting others' work, potentially through their specialised photography marketing agency.
Consider roles such as photo exhibition designer, museum director, art buyer, auctioneer or photo director. Sometimes, changing genres can also help discover new strengths—perhaps street photography isn’t the right fit, but product, sports, food, landscape, architectural, event, wildlife, underwater, portrait or macro photography might be.
Teaching is another viable and fulfilling path. One doesn't need an extensive personal portfolio to educate others in photography. By studying and referencing the best works in the field, one can become a great educator, sharing knowledge and inspiring new generations of photographers.
The world of photography is vast and filled with diverse opportunities. Many can find numerous ways to express their creativity and expertise. The boundless potential within the photographic community is huge.
Many struggling photographers actually excel in other areas tremendously. They just haven't explored these opportunities. Photography is not just about taking photos. You can still be the best in several other important roles and be connected and known in the industry. These skills are as crucial as taking photographs and can lead to fulfilling careers within the photography industry.
When photographers don't see immediate success, they often feel discouraged and consider quitting. But don't!
Loving photography and executing it well are both different. While it's essential to start with hands-on experience photographing, over time, if success remains elusive, consider other aspects of the photography industry where you might excel.
When I was preparing to leave for London in 2005 to pursue my bachelor's degree in fashion, my mother shared a story that has stayed with me ever since. She told me about a gardener who struggled with trimming and pruning plants but excelled at just cutting the grass with his grass shears. Initially, he thought he would never get work, wondering, "Who will hire a gardener who only cuts grass but can't handle plants?” Despite his initial difficulties, he discovered his true talent and focused on his strength. As he kept working people discovered and loved how skilfully he cut the grass. They enjoyed the experience of walking on the perfectly manicured lawns and noticed that their children and dogs played on the grass more than ever before.
His reputation for cutting just the grass grew immensely. He became so renowned that he was flown across India, and to Europe, to work for wealthy clients. By honing his skills in one specific area, he found his niche and achieved great success. This story became a source of inspiration to me. It taught me to focus on my strengths.
To everyone who is considering quitting due to a lack of perceived success, don’t! Photography is a broad field. Analyse and focus on your strengths. Not everyone can be a great photographer, but everyone can be a vital part of the photography industry. For many of you, photography needs you more than you need it. It needs your unique touch, and your talent is valuable. I want to see it shine.
If you still feel that you've explored everything, given every ounce of your hard work, and tried every single aspect of the photography realm but have still lost complete passion for it, see this journey as a valuable learning experience. Use what you've learned to find a new path that makes you happy.
