Photography is at the tip of our fingers. To capture a photo, you can now pick up your phone and instantly snap a photo of whatever is in front of you. Thanks to our digital age, photography has become second nature. However, because of this, the freelance photography industry has become more concentrated and more competitive. So here are some ways to stand out.
Own your style and find what places, edits, and subjects inspire you the most. Time is necessary and patience is crucial. Developing your portfolio, discovering your niche, and crafting your skills all require time. Freelance photography is a competitive and saturated field, but here a few ways you can stand out.
1. Make Connections
This is essential to construct a consistent client base so that you don’t have to search frantically every week for shoots. Making connections will allow you to expand your network while maintaining a client base that opens up room for schedule flexibility. If someone cancels, you can find work. It is important to be loyal while being open to change.
2. Portfolios and Social Media
Your portfolio will hold your most esteemed work, and work that you feel most resembles your style. Keep this updated as you gain experience and build upon your skills. As you meet different clients, explore new places, and grow your knowledge in the industry, which will allow your style to evolve. Represent this in your portfolio and show clients your versatility.
3. Create a Niche and Ask Yourself Q’s
Because freelance photography on social media has become so concentrated, your niche will allow you to stand out. What skills can you broadcast to potential clients and how can you portray these uniquely on social media? Social media presentations these days say a lot about a photographer’s work. Since social media users are so quick to draw conclusions based on a picture or reel, the way photos are organized, captioned, and edited plays a huge role. How can you do this in a way that features your specialized skills? Whether you focus on a particular place, passion, or personality, the list goes on. What, who, and where are you drawn to when you grab your camera?
4. Spontaneity and Adventure
An open mind opens you up to new opportunities. Write down anything that captures your imagination, a visual idea, and new ways of broadcasting your work. Write it down! If you don’t have the time to bring the ideas into fruition right away because of current gigs, you’ll have something to reference when you need something new. Be open to adventure in your work and ideas. Try a new location, ask questions, and get to know your client to find more people who could potentially be interested in the same work that you do. Yes, structure and consistency are musts, but leave room for change when you stay curious.
