Dear Jasmine,
I've been frustrated lately. I am not booking clients. I get so many inquiries but no bookings.
I 2nd shoot and assist a lot. I feel like maybe being as socially awkward as I am is hurting me during my consultations. I've gone and reduced my pricing to try and get busy, but nothing. I am slowly losing faith that I will ever become successful. I don't plan to give up, but something has got to give. I've tried offering “complimentary” sessions, for portfolio building, passing my business card out and having family and friends model for me, I don't know what else I can do to gain more experience. Photographers around here only want to hire experienced 2nd shooters and assistants, but how to you get the experience that they are looking for?
I feel like I'm whining, I guess I am. I'm just so darn frustrated. I want to share the beauty I see in the world. I just need a chance.
Sincerely,
Not Ready to Give Up
Dear Not Ready to Give Up,
I'm sorry you're so darn frustrated, but I want to crawl through the computer and shake you. You're talented and you're hungry for more, so stop whining! Does that sound mean? Yes, likely. But life is good, even when it feels like it isn't. The worst part is that life feels like it's moving too slowly. I get it. Totally. When I first started my business, it felt like I was getting shoots at a snail's pace. But in retrospect, I just needed more time to research and practice my photo skills. And, no, you can never get enough of that.
The next step you need to take is the following: Ask the photographers you second shoot with for feedback and a critique. Don't be afraid to let those who are familiar with entire body of your work critique you so you can grow. Sure, it's uncomfortable to hear what you're doing wrong or how you need to improve, but that's the best way to learn.
Next, join an online photography group. There are tons of free groups on Facebook filled with valuable information. If you're looking for a warm and fuzzy place to learn, shoot me an email and I'll add you to the Restart group…it's a large group of photographers dedicated to helping each other and making changes. Be sure to get involved and once you've made a few friends, put your work and website up for a critique. This may be SO hard to do, but it's an extraordinary way to flourish.
Once you've heard from peers, then you'll have distinct ways to grow and learn. It's just a matter of time before the ball gets rolling. Promise.
Keep Fighting,
j*
