Starting out in the photography industry is an experience that places photographers straight into the deep end.  Like many of today’s high demanding professions, it’s often expected that you’ll have a wealth of experience under your belt before applying for jobs or taking on new clients. But what are new photographers to make of this catch 22 situation?

Build a Network

One of the common themes of today in just about any line of work is your network. There are no shortage of options when it comes to networking events for professionals, and photographers are also afforded the benefit that their work is discussed online and in the community via forums and message boards. Of course, there’s always the tried and tested method of doing work for friends and family to begin with, which in turn has the potential to snowball to third parties.

Furthermore, educational courses, workshops and trade shows are other avenues to build your network of contacts, as are community initiatives involving fairs and the like. Given the importance placed on word-of-mouth marketing, the purpose of these networks is to offer potential leads as your contacts recommend you to their clients. Make sure you’ve addressed the marketing of your business before engaging with these contacts. Peers, as well as potential leads will want to see a professional package, so have business cards or flyers on hand to accompany your social media and branding.

Nail Your Portfolio

While you might believe in your abilities, the fact that you don’t have a book of clients is something that can deter potential leads. It goes without saying, proof of your capabilities is the best way to make an impression. But to get to this point, it’s not sufficient to rely on your past efforts. Make sure you put in enough effort to nail your portfolio by taking on personal projects that will showcase your skills in different facets. It might mean you have to forgo other commitments, and may even cost you more than you bargained for, but it’s absolutely essential you spend money to make money.

Ask to Get Involved

This next one builds on the two aforementioned factors. If you have peers who are already established in the photography industry, ask if you can get involved in one of their clients’ sessions. This isn’t about taking work from your peer, or trying to upstage them. Instead, it’s about the learning experiences that come from the technical side of the photoshoot, as well as managing relations with the client. If you’re able to take a few shots from the day, they’ll provide you with the very content that enhances your portfolio and counts as experience – even if unpaid.

There’s another angle to this as well. While working for free is something that is often thought of as devaluing the work of photographers, ‘free’ should not be confused with something that is tangible and delivers value. Therefore, if you’re in a position to offer your work in exchange for a value added benefit – be that web design work, or expert marketing, not just empty promises of ‘publicity’ – remain open to the proposition.