Pursuing Photography While in School: A Balanced Approach for Success
Dealing with the quandary of whether to continue your education or pursue a passion like photography can be challenging. You are 18, in Year 12 in Australia's New South Wales (NSW), and are eager to drop out to focus on your photography career. While it is understandable to have aspirations to explore your artistic talents, staying in school can provide you with the necessary skills and support to become a successful professional photographer.
Considerations and Benefits of Staying in School
It's important to ponder the skills and knowledge you will need as a photographer. If you plan to work for yourself, it is essential to have a comprehensive understanding of business and accounting, tax laws, and negotiation strategies. These skills may not be as immediately apparent as the ability to take great photos, but they are crucial for any freelance or studio-based business. On the other hand, if you are interested in working for a photography studio or company, a solid educational foundation in those areas will be invaluable throughout your career.
In addition to the technical and business aspects, it is also important to consider the personal development that comes from completing your high school education. Many employers, particularly those in specialized fields, value candidates with a comprehensive educational background. Moreover, staying in school can help you build a strong network of contacts and mentors that can provide invaluable support and guidance as you navigate your career path.
Following your passion for photography doesn't mean you should drop out of school. Many successful photographers have honed their craft while continuing their education. These professionals have paved the way, illustrating that it is possible to achieve both personal and professional success. However, they emphasize the importance of stratified planning. As you progress towards your goals, it's wise to have a secondary plan in case your primary one doesn't materialize as intended.
The Greatness of Photography and the Challenges
Photography is not just about capturing excellent images; it's also about developing a unique perspective and message that resonates with clients. This artistic direction requires dedication, motivation, and a deep understanding of the market. For instance, a recent photography session I attended cost $650. While the fees cover material costs like framing and gallery fees, the photoshoot itself was incredibly time-consuming and required significant post-production work. These are just some of the challenges and costs associated with being a freelance photographer. To make a living from your photography, you will need to create exceptional and unique pieces that clients are willing to pay a premium for.
Furthermore, you must have a robust marketing strategy to ensure that your work reaches the right audience. This involves more than just word-of-mouth; it requires leveraging social media, building an online presence, and networking with established photographers and clients. Be prepared to invest time and effort into these aspects of your career, as they are essential for gaining recognition and making a name for yourself in the industry.
A Fall Back Plan is Recommended
Many professional photographers share similar stories: they have successfully transitioned to full-time photography after establishing themselves in other careers. This approach is often necessary to build the necessary skills and experience. It's wise to approach your pursuit of photography as a serious hobby that you can gradually turn into a full-time career. This phased approach allows you to test the waters, learn from successes and failures, and refine your skills over time.
Ultimately, the decision to continue your education or pursue your passion is both a personal and professional one. While the path of a freelance photographer can be tough, it can lead to significant fulfillment. Keep in mind that there are no right or wrong decisions, but there are consequences. The most valuable lessons often come from mistakes and challenges along the way. As you make this important decision, remember that you have the potential to follow your dreams and achieve great success.