If you want to pursue a career in nature photography, it can be both lucrative and rewarding.The field is competitive and may require a significant investment in time in resources, but you can learn technical skills and develop your creative eye to stand out from the rest.
Step 1: Don't be dull.
In a competitive field, you need both ambition and confidence.In order to show your best work, you have to be self-critical.You will have the drive to work hard and refine your skills if you are passionate about wilderness photography.Be careful that your work isn't specialized because there is no market for it.You want to stand out from the crowd.
Step 2: Budget and invest in your equipment.
Do your due diligence and research what is best for your price point and skill level if you want to invest in the best equipment that you can afford.The body of your camera may get old in a couple years as newer technologies arise, so understand that while some equipment can last you a long time, other equipment, like lens, may not.Rent what you can and invest wisely.You can pool your resources by joining photography groups.Social media can be used to find clubs near your location.
Step 3: You must take a course.
Being technically competent is a must for a successful nature photographer.If you don't know how to fix a camera error, you'll be out on the field with a bad shot.You can take evening courses or complete a degree.To make sure you are making a proper investment for your career goals, be sure to research the instructors and institution.
Step 4: A portfolio is something to create.
Only your best shots are kept.You should take as many pictures as you can so that you have a variety to choose from.Tell us what your best shots are.Ask your friends to look at your portfolio.It's important to show the breadth of your skill.Different camera techniques, environments, and close-ups can be shown.
Step 5: You can enter contests.
Depending on deadlines and fees, enter as many contests as you can.The more prestigious the better, as awards will give you more leverage to negotiate sales later in life.Determine what the guidelines and prizes are.You can launch your career with an immediate contract to a publication.
Step 6: You can find a mentor or group.
If you have questions, email the photographers that you admire and politely reach out to them.It is easy to establish a relationship if you are respectful of her time and passionate about her work.You can support each other as you learn by fining photography groups on social media.Only someone with experience in the field can give you tips and tricks that you can learn from a mentor.She can give you emotional support by letting you know that she used to be just starting out and now sees the same potential in you as she has.
Step 7: Shoot fauna and large landscapes.
If you want to grow nationally or internationally, you will need to learn how to take pictures.To capture unique wildlife, you may have to travel to exotic locations.You are at an advantage if you live in an exotic location.
Step 8: Don't give up your day job.
It will take time to become a professional nature photographer.You will have to invest in equipment to develop your skills.Until you receive your break, use your resources to fund your passion.Because of the unpredictability of nature and the investment needed for exotic locations, you may need to supplement your nature photography with commercial photography.
Step 9: You should keep learning.
Attend lectures and take courses.You should always learn about your craft.Keep your ideas and technical skills fresh.You can take courses online if you don't have time to attend a physical class.Shoot as many different pictures as you can to learn.The more photos you take, the more comfortable you will be as a photographer.
Step 10: Know the lighting you have.
Nature photography is dependent on the sun, which can be your worst enemy or best friend.No matter what time of year or location you are in, learn how to make the most out of your lighting.You can learn how to specialize in lighting techniques.
Step 11: Go macro
Depending on the equipment you invest in, your close ups can put your right in the action.You can take amazing pictures with the right perspective and lense.To get the macro shots that you are looking for, research the function of your equipment and experiment with perspective.
Step 12: Gain some perspective.
There is more to nature photography than just sunsets.You will be unique if you develop your eye and create stunning perspective.Shoot your photographs with your location and lens in mind.The full scope of a landscape can be captured.Shoot things that are out of your comfort zone.When you keep an open mind, you'll find your voice.
Step 13: You can use your device.
It is possible to capture quality images without bulky equipment.Don't be afraid to use your phone if you are in a pinch.You could use your phone to create a specialized set of photographs for your portfolio.You should go to the camera settings menu on your phone to learn the full features.You will be surprised at what you can do.
Step 14: Professional links are established.
You should keep in touch with publications and agencies that have received your work.If you are lucky, they may give feedback on your initial submissions.As you grow your portfolio, continue to build relationships.Add your contacts through social media.
Step 15: Donate your photographs.
You can get your images seen by donating them.Before offering to donate any image for free, make sure to ask if they will purchase your images first.
Step 16: Professional wildlife photographers keep up to date with the latest news.
It is important to study what your peers are doing.Don't copy anyone's work.If you can establish a professional relationship with other photographers who you admire, you may even reach out to them.
Step 17: You should approach the agency.
An agency that will promote your work is a must if you have built an extensive body of work.Before signing any contracts with your agency, make sure you understand the commits.An agency allows you to focus on the creative side of your passion, rather than worry about the business side.
Step 18: Your social media presence should be built.
You can use existing social media tools to show off your talent.If you work with a graphic designer, you can develop a site that stands out.Take part in online photo sharing forums.You want to make sure that the audience is large enough to get a following, so choose where you post your photos.You can post on sites that showcase your talent.The number of views for a photo can translate to visits to your site if you promote yourself for free.Your goal is to get noticed.You can hire someone to manage your website if you have the funds.If you want to learn how to create and manage a website, invest in classes.
Step 19: Your site can be monetized.
You can sell prints on your site.You want to be able to convert views into sales once you get traffic to your site.It can be difficult to make a living selling art prints alone.
Step 20: Put yourself in harms way.
Your work can be submitted to galleries, art fairs, and printed publications.Magazines look for stories before they look at photos, so learn how to write an article with your photos.Make a note of your work on your website if it is published or featured in a gallery.There are exhibitions and award ceremonies.Get to know what is at the top of your field.
Step 21: You can learn to produce video.
Digital cameras shoot video.You can make more money by learning how to shoot and edit video.Nature footage can be sold to broadcasters for educational programming.Depending on how much you want to invest, learning video can double your costs.There are some photography equipment that you can use for video, but there are also special equipment made for that.
Step 22: There are photography workshops you can run.
Sharing your knowledge with the public shows you have a firm grasp of your craft and that you are a trusted voice in your field.It is possible to specialize in order to capture a niche market.Thousands of aspiring photographers share the same passion as you.Creating a workshop where they can meet and exchange ideas helps cultivate your presence as an expert nature photographer.You can share what you have learned with others.
Step 23: Understand key software programs.
It is wise to learn web development, word processing, and bookkeeping software in order to keep your business afloat.If you want to turn your passion into a career, you have to be more than a photographer.You have to learn how to grow your business and eliminate an outside cost.
Step 24: Balance work and life.
Nature photography can mean a lot of travel and long hours.It's important to balance your professional and personal life.Allow your personal experience to inform you.