I’m Better Than A “Pro” (and you probably are too)
Posted on 22 February 2010
One of the things that keeps people from selling their (design/photography/freelance) services, is a lack of confidence. If you think you have a reason to lack confidence as a photographer, try working at my office. I’m surrounded by people who teach the pros how to be better photographers. Our designers set the bar for designers around the world. How could I possibly sell my photography when I’m not on par with Scott Kelby or Joe McNally or Moose Peterson or Vincent Versace? Truth is, there will always be someone better than you. That doesn’t mean that you’re no good. And it doesn’t mean people won’t appreciate and pay for your work. It’s very likely that they will. You just have to give them a chance to. Get out there and sell yourself!
I received a local color, glossy coupon book in the mail at my house (seems like we get a couple of these every week or two) and among the restaurant coupons and carpet cleaning specials, there was a local photographer advertising services there with a half dozen color images in the ad. I had done color magazine production years ago when I used to own an ad agency, and I know that the process of mass produced, inexpensive color printing can make images look bad, but the sample images this photographer used were bad on their own. Composition was weak. Depth of field control was unremarkable. Essentially the pictures were less than compelling, but… they were getting business. They were selling photographic services and they have clients. And after all, that’s the definition of a “professional.” So here’s a case where I can review the best a local shooter has to offer and I know that I can produce images that are far better than theirs.
Don’t wait until you produce “flawless” or “perfect” images. You’ll never get there. I’ve spoken with my photography heroes and not one of them thinks of themselves as perfect. They’ll all accept compliments for images they’ve shot, but in talking informally with them as friends, they’ll all tell you things they could have done better too. They’ll tell you about shots they missed. They know they aren’t perfect and they all are still learning. Every one of them sits in on classes taught by other experts, when I see them at Photoshop World. They all know that they don’t know everything.
So keep learning and keep practicing. Keep getting better. But don’t wait to start trying to ‘go pro’ if that’s part of your plan. Heck, even doctors “practice” medicine. 
Get started today!
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10 responses to I’m Better Than A “Pro” (and you probably are too)
Excellent post! A friend of mine who knows I train computers asked if I knew anyone who can design some business cards for his business. For the exact reason you mentioned, I let that bit of business walk by me. It wouldnt have made me rich, but the experience would have been priceless. I will be taking your advice, as well as making sure that I am ready for any opportunities that come my way. Thanks again for the encouraging blog posts! Keep it up!
Larry,
This was just the post I needed to read today. I spent last week shooting with the outstanding Raul Touzon – an inspiring experience – but was having some confidence issues after seeing his images compared to mine. I need to remember that I may not be up there with the cream of the crop but I’m still perfectly good enough for a lot of clients out there and certainly a lot better than many other photographers.
Larry,
Thank you for the encouraging post. It’s nice to hear this from a person like yourself!
Thank you. It is hard to “get out there” when I feel I am not perfect yet.
Excellent, motivating post. Carrying on with the last line of your post….do you know what they call the guy who was at the very bottom of his medical school class? Answer: A doctor.
I just came back from a wedding shoot feeling down because it was cold, the bride was complaining her feet were cold (as if it were my fault she booked in winter) the upshot was I did not get what I envisioned, wish I had done this that and the other, so this post has realy booked me up a bit, even the top guys must have bad days.
Robin.
Much needed words of encouragement, thanks for being there!
Larry, I used to ask myself “who decides and what is the criteria for calling someone a pro photographer.” It all started with my first Kelby book, then a website, then my first customer. People were happy with my work so I dubbed thee “A Pro” and never looked back. Three years later I know I can make anyone look their best and continue to get business, happy customers, and checks! I love my work.
I’m coming to PSW next month and I’m pumped. Hope I run into you.
Larry, great blogpost, thanks for sharing!
Larry: Point well taken! Thanks.