4. Community Over "Networking"
The typical image of networking often involves corporate events where various people mingle around tables, and you find yourself trying to approach others to sell your skills. This self-promotion approach can be practical if you're a natural at sales, but can be intimidating for even someone like myself.
Thus, my perspective on networking changed when I started to see it as building relationships and being part of a community. This shift made networking more exciting and felt more authentic. Engaging genuinely with others, finding common interests, and actively listening to their concerns and projects foster meaningful connections. While it may take time to land you a job, these sustainable relationships are more beneficial than brief, sales-focused interactions in the long run.
Plus, you might be part of a fun new group of like-minded people!
5. Your Presence on Social Media
Social media holds a dual significance for many. It can be a wellspring of inspiration and a viable means to earn a living. Yet, there's a complexity to it: on one hand, it's a rich source of ideas if you know where to look. On the other, it can be overwhelming, leading to self-doubt about your art and a tendency to limit your tastes to the confines of your feed.
That's why, as mentioned below, it's important to seek inspiration from various sources.
Despite these challenges, engaging on social media, showcasing your portfolio, and updating your profiles are crucial to landing your desired travel photography job. Clients often don't stumble upon your website by chance and instantly book you. Instead, a strong portfolio becomes a pivotal point for potential collaborations, often after initial email interactions. Social media can serve a similar purpose. While some find it easy to constantly post stories and behind-the-scenes content, even sharing a few moments each week can significantly boost your visibility.