A Journey of Passion and Perseverance: Reflecting on My First Year as a Full-Time Photographer
As I sit down to reflect on the whirlwind that has been the past year, I can't help but feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the decision I made to pursue my passion for photography full time. Leaving behind a stable job in the software industry was a daunting prospect, but little did I know that this leap of faith would lead to a transformative and rewarding journey.
The Kickoff in February 2023:
February marked the beginning of my first year as a full-time photographer. The excitement was palpable, and with camera in hand, I embraced the challenges that lay ahead. Little did I know that the months to follow would be a rollercoaster of experiences, shaping not only my professional growth but also my personal resilience.
March and April Workshops:
In March, I attended a newborn academy workshop that served as a catalyst for my eagerness to succeed. The knowledge gained and the connections made fueled my determination to carve a niche in the competitive world of photography. April brought another newborn and maternity workshop, further honing my skills and expanding my network within the industry.
The Mentorship Dilemma:
Amidst the highs of workshops and networking, I encountered a pivotal moment that tested my resolve. A mentor, someone I looked up to, took advantage of my (and many others) eagerness to succeed. Falsely promising opportunities, this mentor roped me into a business venture and many purchases that ultimately turned out to be a mirage of unfulfilled promises. After digging into public records and recalling many issues I've had as well as other photographers stories, I realized my mentor's business practices were extremely questionable and concerning to me as a new business owner. This betrayal of trust – was a harsh lesson in discernment and the importance of choosing mentors wisely. I may write a blog post in the future of how to select a mentor and the red flags to look for. But for now, all I can say is - trust - but verify, and stop trusting the minute your gut tells you something isn't right.
Cutting Ties and Finding Independence:
Realizing the deception, I made the tough decision to cut ties with my mentor. It was a painful but necessary step toward reclaiming my independence and pursuing my dreams without compromise. Learning to trust my instincts and distinguish between genuine opportunities and deceptive ploys became a crucial part of my journey.
Explosion of Business and New Beginnings:
As the year progressed, my dedication began to pay off. The latter part of the year witnessed an explosion of business, with clients recognizing my authentic passion and commitment. The struggles of the earlier months faded into the background as I focused on delivering exceptional work and building a reputation for integrity and professionalism.
Looking Ahead – A New Studio:
As I stand on the brink of a new year, I am thrilled to announce the next chapter in my journey – the opening of my new studio. One year after taking the plunge into full-time photography, I am ready to create a bigger space where creativity flourishes, and clients feel the magic of their moments captured through my lens.
Conclusion:
Reflecting on the highs and lows of my first year as a full-time photographer, I am grateful for the lessons learned, the resilience gained, the community of photographers that inspire and lift me up, and the passion that propels me forward. Leaving the security of a corporate job was undoubtedly a risk, but it was a risk that allowed me to discover my true potential and set the stage for a future filled with creativity, independence, and the pursuit of my dreams. Cheers to the journey, the lessons, and the promise of what's to come.
