The internet is the coolest thing ever (I know I sound like my eight-year-old daughter). I mean, when I was 12 the Commodore 64 was THE stuff. It was equipped with 64 kilobytes of memory and optional 1200 baud modem. I was the hit of the neighborhood – not to mention I rocked the BBS. Yep, I’ve been called a dork on occasion, but I’m cool with that because we’re in my wheelhouse now baby. That’s right, today’s internet has become ubiquitous and social networking has metastasized the internet into a giant calling card. Professional photographers have never had so many options to promote themselves and their work. The internet is an incredibly rich medium – perfect for aspiring artists. If you’re happy taking photos for your personal portfolio that’s fine, but if you’re looking to get noticed and possibly become a professional then listen closely. The five things you need to do right now to promote your skills: 1. Get a website (there are a ton of great sites and many are free) 2. Get business cards…I don’t know how many times I’ve had people ask me for a card when I’ve been shooting 3. Go viral. Yes, the internet is the one place where it’s ok to skip the protection. Get connected on Facebook , Twitter, MySpace, Linkedin and Plaxo just to name a few. It’s all about social networking. 4. Find a mentor. Pick someone that you respect to help guide you to becoming a more successful photographer 5. Create a plan and set some goals. I know it sounds simple, but if you’re driven like me than you need some expectations. Floating along just doesn’t cut it. 6. Lastly, do something. Get out and shoot, network, build your portfolio and meet new people. There’s nothing worse than paralysis of analysis. The more things you throw at the wall, the more likely something is going to stick. And in this business it can start a ripple effect. One good lead can bring many more in return. So be brave, jump in.
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Great advice John! It really does work too!! I love your blog and website! I’ll be visiting regularly!
Thanks for checking me out. I checked out your site….very nice! One benefit of posting a comment is it allows other people to find you too…so keep them coming! John
I am working on a website, just had business cards made, have a portfolio that I send out… Just have a few more points on your list to work out! Could use a mentor and need to stop my “paralysis of analysis”; my husband says next to this phrase in the dictionary is my picture!!
Thanks for the advice!
[...] hotmail account in ‘97. Before even meeting John, I copied the list he gave in his “It’s a Brave New World” post onto a sticky note so I could have some direction to go with photography. Because of [...]