It is already hard enough being a professional photographer but living in a small town and owning a photography business makes it even harder to get business at times. There are so many people that are becoming photographers these days and that does not help either. I live in a small town and when I say small I mean tiny. The latest population I found was 350 people! Yes, you read that right! I have lived here for 28 years but I am not originally from here and that does not help. The problem with this is that a lot of people that live in my town are related to what seems like half the people in the town. That means the photographers are related to a lot of people compared to myself who has no relation where I live. Typically family will go to the photographer who they are related to. Again, being a professional photographer isn't easy, no matter where you live.
There is already a lot of competition between photographers, as I said earlier a lot of people are becoming photographers these days, some good and some not so good. But regardless, there is still competition. Photographers can be compared to retail chain stores such as Wal-Mart and Target. They both pretty much sell the same thing but some things are different like the prices, sales, advertising, and one may offer a different type of incentive for being a customer. Regardless of the cost what matters is the quality. You know how the saying goes...quality over quantity.
Thankfully we have the internet which allows us to easily connect with people outside of our own towns and even out of state. It really can be hard sometimes not to get down on yourself when photographer x has so many clients because she has a lot of family near her. You just have to be a little more creative and really push yourself. Try to find something that all the other photographers aren't doing...learn it, master it, and kill it!
As always...let me know your thoughts!
6 Comments
Michelle
4/9/2018 12:43:12 pm
Really interesting point on living in a small town.
Reply
Living in a small town gives you a unique perspective which can create a unique space for you in the ever expanding world photography. Remember being a photographer is not merely a skill but an aesthetic. I am sure that your gift will make a way for you within the genre. God bless.
Reply
Marni
4/10/2018 02:12:19 pm
I love that you are taking this situation and using it to push yourself! One day you will be the townie and some one else will be the newbie!
Reply
4/12/2018 09:58:33 am
I totally get what you're saying, thing is there will always be competition. Photography is also becoming a big past-time to those who have full time jobs. Regardless of the fact that a lot of people are taking up this hobby, you need to shine through them all and make sure you stand out.
Reply
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorMom, Fiancee', & Photographer. Archives
September 2018
Copyright 2018 All Rights Reserved
|