10 truths from a professional photographer
As a professional photographer with over a decade of experience collaborating with major brands and private clients, I’ve learned lessons that go beyond technique and gear.
Photography is as much about mindset and approach as it is about the image itself. Here are 10 truths I’ve discovered along the way:
1. Gear Matters, But Vision Matters More
The camera is a tool, not the creator. It’s tempting to obsess over the latest equipment, but your ability to see and capture a moment matters infinitely more than what’s in your bag. Invest in your perspective as much as your gear. I don’t agree with those photographers who charge the customer for the equipment used. It is stupid in my opinion. We are paid for our talent and our unique perspective. And that is the only thing to mark the difference, not how many money your gear is. Gear matters only in the measure I will be able to do a certain specific work that they commission me, but that will also influence whether I can accept a certain job or not, in total honesty.
2. Only the assignment matters
Clients hire you for a specific job. It’s not about your personal artistic vision; it’s about fulfilling their brief and solving their problem. Your expertise is valued because it serves their needs. Always put the assignment first. Before I make the assignment I study their guidelines or the examples presented in order to create something as close to their expectations as possible. And during the assignment there is only the assignment and no other type of photography. This does not mean at all that I will not add my particular flair or an absolutely personal touch, because the client has chosen me and will count on finding elements typical of my way of observing and documenting the world.
3. The Best Photos Tell a Story
A technically perfect image without a story is forgettable. Whether it’s a portrait or a street photograph, think about what you want the image to say. Storytelling separates good photographers from great ones. The emotional impact of an image is anything when it comes to be hired by brands. Because we are living a different era, but hey, certain things never change. My vision has been fueled by LIFE magazine and that is a constant reference for me as a photojournalist connected with humanity.
4. Personal Work Fuels Professional Growth
Don’t underestimate the power of personal projects. They allow you to experiment, take risks, and stay creatively energized. Many of my best opportunities came from showcasing passion projects, not client assignments. My growth as a photographer and also the successful proposition of my street photography, an example of all the highlights of the month on this blog, create the ideal conditions for potential clients to approach me and propose me a job.
5. Professionals get paid, and make a living doing it
Looking at social networks, there are plenty of photographers, but a professional photographer is in a different league than someone who has a "regular" job and takes photos in his spare time. And often amateurs have better and more expensive gear than me. Because all my income is generated by photography and I don't have a fixed salary. There are positives and negatives to all this. Sometimes I earn a lot and sometimes nothing. If you want to be a professional photographer be ready with being exposed to a roller coaster.
7. Time Is Your Most Valuable Resource
Photography is a time-intensive profession. From planning and shooting to editing and delivering, your schedule can fill up fast. Learning to say no to projects that don’t align with your goals is as important as saying yes to the right ones. The selection of the jobs means also selection of the clients. I try to have a list of clients of a certain level because it will also change the work experience that I will have.
8. Networking Isn’t Optional
Relationships matter. Whether it’s with clients, models, or fellow photographers, your network can open doors and sustain your career. Always be approachable, kind, and professional. I use social media for what they are, for better or for worse, but I am aware that they are not enough on their own. A photographer must have a well-made and optimized website that responds to his vision, with a portfolio that is as complete as possible and that highlights his photography. Consider social media go on the street and your website your shop or factory. I can see how having studied marketing helps me a lot in the profession I have undertaken.
9. Never Stop Learning
The photography industry evolves constantly. Trends, tools, and styles change, but the desire to learn should remain constant. Stay curious, adapt, and challenge yourself to grow. Every profession in the world needs updating. It's part of being a professional, dedicated, engaged and always on point.
10. Listen to yourself
When you do the work, it's you and only you. Even when surrounded by many people and working in a team. You will be the only one who will have to answer for your photography, and no one else. Listen to your head and listen to your heart. Be positive, confident that you will do the work you have been asked to do.
