#7: Steve Kozak: “What does it mean to be a ‘professional’ Photographer?”

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Steve Kozak

What does it mean to be a “professional” photographer? How does one know?

Bill first discusses the 2 (extremely low) barriers to entry for the photographer/faux-tographer today. After his own admission of guilt, he then poses the question to Steve Kozak. Steve shares 9 THINGS THAT EVERY PHOTOGRAPHER SHOULD LEARN FIRST. After a passionate explanation of the 9, Steve then discusses his CHECKLIST FOR TURNING PRO–his suggestions for what every photographer needs to have in place before they decide to turn pro.

Will you design your career, or will you have a career by default?

If you’re a consistent listener to Intrepid Photography Radio, you’ll notice this conversation lasts longer than most. Why? Steve’s decades of experience working with emerging photographers gives him a message that needs to be heard! Scroll down and you’ll see the 2 lists that Steve provides. If you’re really striving to improve your craft and business, print the lists. Then, as you listen, take notes on the lists.

Want to hear more from Steve? Find him online at www.photoproworkshops.com.

And stay tuned for our next conversation with Cris Duncan! If you’ve wondered about the life of a working Photographer, you’ll hear it from him.

And as always, we ask (politely): Click here to sign up for the IntrepidNOW mailing list. If you do, you’ll find yourself suddenly more popular and good-looking.

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9 Things Every Photographer Should Learn First
1. F-stops and Shutter speeds
2. Command over the camera
3. Science of Lighting
4. Art of Lighting
5. Command over Flash
6. The Art of Composition – The Abstract
7. Digital Finishing Arts
8. Communication
9. The Business of Photography

Checklist for Turning Pro: This is an outline of my suggestions for what photographers need to have in place before they decide to go pro.

1. The Fundamentals
A. Basic Camera Operation
B. Predict the results before you shoot
C. Repeat results consistently
D. Be comfortable with posing

2. The Art
A. Create Strong Compositions
B. Develop A Style
C. Become a “Storyteller”

3. The Business
A. Define Your Target Market
B. Establish Your “Practice”
C. Define & Project Your Professional Image
D. Finding Clients
E. Business Plan in Place

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Bill Ramsey

BILL RAMSEY's curiosity has led him through pursuits in Ministry, Photography, Writing, Speaking, and Salesmanship. Along the way, Bill has gleaned an exotic collection of insights from his wildly diverse encounters. Bill lives in Canton, GA, with his first girlfriend/wife of 14 years, and 3 entrepreneurial kids. He brushes his hair with a safety razor.

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