What is the process of becoming a successful photographer?

Hi Raven,

I wasn't sure photography was a "serious" career when I graduated college, but have found that it integrates not only artistry, but lots of business and communications and interpersonal skills. If you want to be a successful photographer and not a starving artist, you need to be marketable and have a brand that sells (you can see the way I've presented my brand at www.davidshopper.com). It of course helps a lot if you can produce visually exciting photographs - it's always easier to sell that. To be able to get hired consistently, your clients need to know that you'll approach their imagery with a certain look (it's how you, personally, "see" the world). If you're doing any kind of commercial photography (advertising, weddings, portraits, editorial, etc), you have to be reliable and professional and organized. And you have to find a way to come back with a great photo, even if it's raining or the model doesn't show or your camera breaks.

The Process starts by getting educated in writing, psychology, art history, marketing, economics, business, history, etc. so you can understand what's going on in front of you in a deeper, more sophisticated way. Start your portfolio. Then learn the technology. Throw out everything in your portfolio. Start again. Then learn the industry - tag along or assist a photographer that you respect and want to emulate. Build your portfolio. Then start to take on clients as you can get them. Keep shooting. It's a slow process, working hard for a long time so you can be an overnight success.

Good luck!

Hi Raven, There is a saying "Life is like Photography, you develop from Negatives"
Photography is nothing but what people see when you see it through your eyes. Its a great field and a beautiful art. As David and Nicoleta have mentioned, Start Small, Learn & learn again the concepts, Practice and practice more.
It doesn't matter even if your photo comes out blurred, try again and again till you have that perfect picture. Sign up to different forums and understand how others take pictures, read magazines, take feedback and become better at it.
Its always great to start photography as photos are also memories. All the best!

Photography is a competitive field, however; so be prepared to start small, while you perfect your craft and build a portfolio of your best work. The tips below should help get you started.
Know your gear, build your portfolio, decide on your forte.

Only do photography that you enjoy and feel comfortable with; you will begin to dislike your business otherwise.

Good luck!

Degree in photography and passion towards capturing nice images would get the best photography title