Time for a change?
I recently found myself without a job due to my contract ending unexpectedly. I will not go into detail, but having worked in the same profession for over 40 years it did come as something of a shock. I could simply find another contract and probably start work immediately (due to the current staff shortages in my former area of work). However, I have not really been enjoying my role as an enforcement officer, which can often be stressful and confrontational. Photography on the other hand remains a constant pleasure in my life, and helped me to get through a difficult 2020. Albert Einstein is often quoted as defining Insanity as 'doing the same thing over and over again and expecting a different result'. Would it be insane for me to get back into my former role, which is usually a case of 'the same meat, different gravy'. I am now at a bit of a crossroads in my life, being far closer to the end of my working life than at the beginning. My options seem to be carrying on as before and expecting a different outcome (insanity?) or considering just packing it all in and taking early retirement (sounds a bit boring) or I could try to make at least some of my income from doing something I love, photographing other peoples dogs.. I think that I have probably just answered my own question... of course I should at least give professional dog photography a go. Unfortunately, I am pretty lousy at marketing myself, so I will have to try and push through my natural modesty and lack of self belief. Over the past 7 years of photographing dogs, I have perfected the art of active dog photography, (as opposed to studio dog photography, which does not appeal to me in the same way). I therefore consider myself to have ability and credibility to make it as a Pro Dog Tog. I realise that I may still have to make part of my income from contracting, but at least I will be able to enjoy part of my remaining working life. So, it's exciting times ahead, I just need to get to grips with the marketing side of things, so if you have any tips or suggestions, please feel free to leave me a comment.
Keywords:
Active and fun dog photography,
Dog photography,
Maisy the Moocher,
Pro Dog tog,
Professional Photographer,
Schnauzers
Comments
No comments posted.
Loading...
|
I began to take things more seriously 5 years ago, when I was invited to be the official event photographer at the London Landlord Accreditation Schemes, annual networking event at The Taj Hotel in St James.
Last year I shot the LLAS Event, and I was then approached by Mountain Warehouse to photograph their Summer Party at the London Physic Gardens in Chelsea. This was a wonderful event, attended by over 300 people, and it was my first opportunity to photograph such an event.
Then in total contrast, I was asked to photograph a funeral which I accepted with some trepidation. I did not know what to expect, but it turned out to be one of the most moving and gratifying days photography I have so far undertaken.To finish of a successful year, I was contacted once again by Mountain Warehouse, to photograph their Christmas event and the launch of their new London HQ in Victoria. it was another well attended event, and I enjoyed the experience tremendously.
Going forward, I am now looking forward to photographing more events in 2025, as well as developing my people, portrait and dog photography skills. I have also recently invested a considerable sum in new professional Canon photography equipment, and can't wait to shoot with it! |
