Public Forums > Photography > Going from TFT to paid work

How do you get from doing Trade for Time/ CD/ Prints to actual paid work?

I'm probably not at the stage to do any paid work at the moment but I was wondering how one goes about it. At the moment I am doing TFT stuff to build me portfolio and help other build theirs. How many shots do you need in a portfolio to give to clients and also what kinds of shots do you need?

x

Its a really interesting question.  I guess when you feel confident enough to charge you can.

The type of shots depends entirely on what kind of photography you want to do - you have a lot of portrait photos so I guess you will stick with that area, and to be honest, just ten good shots is more than enough - you don't need more than that to show people.  When you fell ready then you can gradually start to charge (at least get your costs back anyway) and maybe start with charging an hourly fee.

Contact people who will and can afford to pay - magazines, businesses, model agencies.  The more professionally you present yourself the more you can charge!

Is it adequate enough to be armed with just a Canon 450d? No lighting equipment or anything, or even any knowledge of how to use it.

I'm starting to get a collection of good shots that I am happy enough with to show to people. I need proper criticsm though so I can improve. People are too nice.

Ahh I'll be honest if you want to show me!

It always helps to ask on photo forums - people tend to be less polite esp if its a pro or semi pro forum and will give you good advice on how to improve.  

A Canon450D will get you far enough - don't need to worry about that but if you are employed then you may need another camera body - just in case yours breaks on location.  You never know what can happen.

Lighting is a very important one - if you can;t train then read lots and lots of books about it.  A basic lighting set can be as little as £299 for 2 flash heads, stands, diffusers (look on Ebay) and is very useful if you want to pursue still life or portraiture.

Well feel free to take a look at my pictures on here and tell me what you think. Or I am just starting a photogrpahy blog http://jetstonephotography.blogspot.com or of course deviant art: http://jettica.deviantart.com

Thank you.

I'll have a look on Ebay for lighting, I want to do portraiture so I guess this is the way forward.

If you can push to £600 plus, you can get a good set by Bowens or Elinchrome.  You can normally buy these from Calumet or online photo retailers.  Otherwise £200 for a set on Ebay you want at least 150 Watts per light and two lights with a stand, brolly or softbox.

I have had a look at your blog!  lovely images, I like the logo you have on the bottom - I feel that the top images are especially strong, you have a real eye for small details.  What camera did you use for your trip?

I have been in the same place for a few years (no holidays!!) so I am definately looking forward to being able to travel!