http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mix4_93bEJw&feature=g-u-u
The measurement of “success” is like “measuring a piece of
string”. It depends how far you want to take the Photography. I personally feel
that a person’s success it determined by themselves, and you set yourself a
goal, and if you achieve that goal, you’re a success!
There are world famous Photographers who probably did never
doubt themselves or their ability and have become great successes, however
there are Photographers who definitely have doubted themselves and made a name
for themselves in a big way.
Zack Arias is a Photographer that springs to mind who falls
under this category. I watched a video of him on YouTube having a chat with
Chase Jarvis, and he discusses some of the thought patterns he had as a
Photographer.
Zack Arias had doubts about his ability as a Photographer,
doubted his own creative direction, and he even openly discusses the fact that
he attempted to become a Photographer, gave up and did something, but then came
back to Photography later.
Jasmine Star is also another Photographer who openly
discusses her own self-doubt, her mistakes, but nevertheless she persisted and
now she is one of the world’s most famous Wedding Photographers.
My answer to the question about “Can I be a successful
Photographer?” would be another question back to whoever asked me… and my
question to them is “Do you have the determination to succeed?”
As I feel the one trait that resides in all successful
people, not even just Photographers, is determination. If you do find yourself
asking the question “Can I be successful?” either to yourself or to a respected
professional, then Dom does have a point and you potentially won’t as there is a
lack of confidence, but it would be down to the individual whether they would
allow this lack of confidence to stop them, or would they persist and develop
the confidence they need.
That’s my thoughts on the topic at least… Let me know your
thoughts…
@LeoHoangPhoto
It all depends on THE IF factor,if people like your work then yes one can but the other IF is also at play..even if they do like your work one may not be employed because the other photographer is using that new fangled look on his photos,blown out black and whites and cross prosseing that OH we love it it really makes the picture dont you think attitude, then theres the money people want a lot for nothing,ones work can be technically perfect and great too but HOW MUCH its only a picture and you use a Digital camera so you dont have to pay for film ITS FREE,I could go on but ill stop here
ReplyDeleteI personally feel that if you determine your success on the concept of "IF", then you're limiting yourself.
Delete"IF" may apply when you're negotiating with specific clients. However the discussion was more broad and referring to overall success.
Personal taste and preference will vary massively from client to client, and you will always find people who like and dislike your work. That's where I feel the determination will come into play and you must seek out the clients that will appreciate your work.
Also, the cost of photography is mainly time as we provide a service. You must value your time and the quality of work you produce.
But Keenan, if we could carry on this discussion on Dom Bower's Photography Group page on facebook, which is where you found the link I presume. I am curious to see other Photographers thoughts on the topic as your comment has opened up a discussion of some sorts.
Thanks for your comment.