this might be an odd question but what facets of yourself or your business did you look at to determine what makes you unique? i find reflection is soooooooo hard to do. my god!
Hi Sarah. Have you seen my video on standing out? I think what makes you unique is a culmination of what you're good at, your history, how you got to be a photographer, and your unique gifts. I have a course all about this actually and you can get on the waitlist for the next launch here joymichellephotography.lpages.co/h-b-brides-mini-sales-page/
Hi there. Just wanted to comment on the copying point. - Copying is actually the BEST way to learn. - There is a difference between copying and claiming that it's your own work/ style; and copying and learning the process on how to get there. Art/painting classes does the same thing, understand the technique, learn from it and adapt. Picasso said "It took me four years to paint like Raphael, but a lifetime to paint like a child." :) K
This is totally spot on. If you're shooting in a vacuum, you're only going to close yourself off to really digging deep into bringing to life different styles and even work similar to specific photographers that really resonate with you. There's a huge difference between “I'm going to recreate this same exact shot” and “I'm going to invest in the tools and techniques this craftsman is using to have this look, feel, etc.” People say the best way to learn is to shoot, shoot, shoot, but while you do have to actually be shooting, you also need to be developing a catalog in your brain of what is possible with the type of photography you want to do and how each element is achieved.
Thanks for sharing these tips! So excited to share my progress after putting these into practice. The one thing I'm trying to figure out is building up clients and working on my style. Right now I'm super new so it all feels like trail and error. But it's fun trying out the advice from people who have already been in this stage.
I wish I knew I didn't have to have "formal" photography education in order to succeed or become a professional photographer. Three years ago I had my first child, and while I was shooting every day and reading as many articles, blogs, books etc., I kept telling myself I couldn't really get serious about a Photography buisness until my child/future children were in school full time and I could go back to school. There are so many online resources (even free ones. . . Like Joy Michelle's youtube videos!) that are amazing. Perspective clients are going to look at your work and decide if they like it. Aside from conversationally during a shoot, my clients have never asked me what my education is. They ask how long I have been doing it, but not what photography school I went to. If someone wants to be a stickler and say, "I'm only going to hire someone with a photography degree" then they are missing out on a ton of talent. I held myself back thinking this was a dream I couldn't pursue yet and wasted a lot of time I could have been building my business and my skills.
Wow Johanna thanks for sharing this!! So many people need to hear this because it's TRUE. Talent is talent and 99% of people will never care at all where you attended school because that doesn't really mean anything to them and what they are getting in the end.
Johanna Brun There are some skills that a formal education can teach you that you may have never learned. Also, most people will have to learn all elements of photography, you’ll be shooting abstract, documentary, portraits, and time exposures. Plus you’ll understand how to get the most bang for your buck on gear.
I have been binge watching your videos!! Your my new favourite channel!! Do you have a video or could you make a video on exporting images for social media and for clients etc to get the sharpest quality!?
I asked Taylor to do one and he said he's workin on it. Have you done a 'worst wedding' video yet? Or more tastefully, a video about the most challenging situations you encountered and how you handled them on-site (and how you would have handled them in hindsight)? Thanks :)
i totally agree with you, on the whole, making yourself a brand and building a sort of inclusivity that people feel like they can be a part of but... like... i'm so stuck in my head about only posting just one form of photography on my Instagram when i really want to start posting not just on form of photography to connect with people more T.T
One thing I wish I knew before I started was to purchase a prime lens first and foremost, because you can get the most bang for your buck with one. Especially the 50mm f/1.8! But I loved the video! Keep up the great work! You have such a great screen presence! Cheers from Boston!
I struggle with it. I have my own studio and sometimes I see no one for days other than clients ha! My friends are self employed so its often hard to meet up. We know demand a coffee with one of us each at least a week
I don't think buying a preset counts as copying because a preset will only take you so far. You are still the artist taking and composing (and posing) your image
I wish I knew how important networking with other vendors in the wedding business would be. Forming friendships with other wedding vendors is one of the most crucial things you can do to grow awareness of your business. Becoming a "preferred vendor" really helps you gain recognition and set you ahead of the competition. I'm not a preferred vendor yet, but I'm working on it :)
Hello, Joy! I just came across your videos and have been watching them for the last few days - I LOVE your advice and how clearly you explain everything. Thank You! *Warning - LONG QUESTION* I'm currently in that awkward "just starting out reading and watching everything everyday to learn as much as possible" phase. And I so desperately want to start shooting everyday and have known I need to. Here's my problem: I don't have a camera!!! =0 And, my phone really isn't an option. I've asked around and no one I know has one. So, I need to buy one and my dilemma is to buy a beginner camera or invest for the future and buy my dream camera (Nikon D850)? I know buying a beginner camera sounds like it makes that most sense - save money initially, settings easier to manage, what if I change my mind about this photography thing - but I feel like everything is pointing me to buying a professional one - I KNOW wedding and engagement photography is what I want to do, so why spend a 1/3 of what it's cost to get my dream camera on something I'll just need to upgrade in 6 months to a year anyway, and learning the camera and it's settings won't be too much for me as I'm very tech savvy. So, in my mind, everything says buy the Nikon D850! Is there something I'm missing that'd point me in the other direction? And I'd have to save up for about 4-6 months to get my dream camera, any suggestions as to what I should do in the mean time? The craigslist ads for a 5-year-old used camera where they're only asking $200 less than what it'd cost to buy it new scare me, lol, and don't seem like a good idea. If you have the time to read all this and get back I soooooo THANK YOU! Much love, DAVA :) P.S. If I do get the Nikon D850, I'd only be able to afford 1 lens at first. Which do you suggest?
Hi Dava, thanks for watching and thanks for this comment. I one hundred percent agree with you that if you think you’re going to do this professionally and your heart is really in photography you should go straight for a full frame camera like the D850. I think that you’ll be happy you went full frame to begin with because you won’t feel the need to upgrade so quickly as well. If you can only afford one lines I recommend you invest in a 50 mm 1.4. It’s not as expensive as many other lenses but it is a really good standard one and I use it all the time!! Be sure to join my Facebook group for extra help along the way!
Hi Joy, thank you for asking! I am a portrait photographer just starting to dive into weddings and launch my business. My husband has been a landscape/ travel photographer for a while and has taught me most of what I know. I really resonate with what you said "until I was comfortable with my prices and product my clients won't be either". I find confrontation difficult and It's hard to be totally confident in pricing and all the details when you are just starting out.
Thank you for all these helpful videos! I’m always scared to get started due to not fully knowing what I’m doing but I’m glad to have these videos help out. May I know how you set up an online gallery for your clients to choose prints from?
My one thing i wish I knew: don’t delete original files when are done editing. Sigh. As educational process you will revisit your old pictures and try to edit it different as you learn new things, so original must be separate.
I don't understand the last point...how can you make people feel like they belong to your brand? Could you explain that? maybe make a video on it? What I wish I knew about photography?....Its a lot of work! From A-Z...and that it is very hard to duplicate
YOU ARE AMAZING! I’m still learning everyday. I strive to be the best I can be and a photographer that people drop their jaw at my work. Time will tell 😍
This is bizarre! The sound speed of this video suddenly went super slow and while I initially thought it was part of the video, after a solid minute, I now realize something is a muck.
I wish I knew camera gear is so expensive. I started with a kit existing of a Canon rebel and a 18-55 and 55-250 which cost me about 900 € and I thought that would suit me for years ...
I guess photography cost me 20.000 $ the past 10 years and I'm not even a pro. Following courses that were no good. Buying cameras and selling them half a year later to buy newer stuff … Lenses I'll never use … The list goes on.
I wish I knew that my brand is not my logo, but my photos. Because, when I started photography, I always focus on ''where is my logo'' , ''how does it look'' , ''ou the logo isn't enough to see on my photos''.... That was the big mistake and I wish I knew that.
"there are somethings you just have to learn from experience, that cannot be taught." my mentor taught me that lesson. that defiantly goes to finding your style.
Indeed. I wish other photographers went out there and discovered themselves. I think we [new photographers] rely too much on "rules" rather than their artistic ability. What person A may like, person B may dislike. but it doesn't mean it's not art. Yes, learning the foundation is important, it helps you break those so-called rules. That's why we have so many makers of cameras, the companies want to be in the forefront of your artistic creativity.
Great video Joy. I really liked the topic in this and I think your resulting insights are very interesting to hear. Keep up the excellent work. I've subbed. If you get a moment i'd highly appreciate feedback on any of my first photography vlog videos. Feedback from more experienced vloggers is always awesome to get. All the best, cheers
this might be an odd question but what facets of yourself or your business did you look at to determine what makes you unique? i find reflection is soooooooo hard to do. my god!
Hi Sarah. Have you seen my video on standing out? I think what makes you unique is a culmination of what you're good at, your history, how you got to be a photographer, and your unique gifts. I have a course all about this actually and you can get on the waitlist for the next launch here joymichellephotography.lpages.co/h-b-brides-mini-sales-page/
yes! watch all of your videos. thank you for the link! xo
Hi there. Just wanted to comment on the copying point. - Copying is actually the BEST way to learn. - There is a difference between copying and claiming that it's your own work/ style; and copying and learning the process on how to get there. Art/painting classes does the same thing, understand the technique, learn from it and adapt.
Picasso said "It took me four years to paint like Raphael, but a lifetime to paint like a child."
:)
K
Definitely agree!
This is totally spot on. If you're shooting in a vacuum, you're only going to close yourself off to really digging deep into bringing to life different styles and even work similar to specific photographers that really resonate with you. There's a huge difference between “I'm going to recreate this same exact shot” and “I'm going to invest in the tools and techniques this craftsman is using to have this look, feel, etc.” People say the best way to learn is to shoot, shoot, shoot, but while you do have to actually be shooting, you also need to be developing a catalog in your brain of what is possible with the type of photography you want to do and how each element is achieved.
Thanks for sharing these tips! So excited to share my progress after putting these into practice. The one thing I'm trying to figure out is building up clients and working on my style. Right now I'm super new so it all feels like trail and error. But it's fun trying out the advice from people who have already been in this stage.
What should I use for portrait consultation forms? Not for weddings
One of the most informative videos on photography I've seen in years! Thank you very much.
Thanks so much!
I wish I knew I didn't have to have "formal" photography education in order to succeed or become a professional photographer. Three years ago I had my first child, and while I was shooting every day and reading as many articles, blogs, books etc., I kept telling myself I couldn't really get serious about a Photography buisness until my child/future children were in school full time and I could go back to school. There are so many online resources (even free ones. . . Like Joy Michelle's youtube videos!) that are amazing. Perspective clients are going to look at your work and decide if they like it. Aside from conversationally during a shoot, my clients have never asked me what my education is. They ask how long I have been doing it, but not what photography school I went to. If someone wants to be a stickler and say, "I'm only going to hire someone with a photography degree" then they are missing out on a ton of talent. I held myself back thinking this was a dream I couldn't pursue yet and wasted a lot of time I could have been building my business and my skills.
Wow Johanna thanks for sharing this!! So many people need to hear this because it's TRUE. Talent is talent and 99% of people will never care at all where you attended school because that doesn't really mean anything to them and what they are getting in the end.
Johanna Brun There are some skills that a formal education can teach you that you may have never learned. Also, most people will have to learn all elements of photography, you’ll be shooting abstract, documentary, portraits, and time exposures. Plus you’ll understand how to get the most bang for your buck on gear.
I completely agree with all of these! Especially the point about being sure to have original work! You're videos are always so educational! :)
Thank you!!
I have been binge watching your videos!! Your my new favourite channel!!
Do you have a video or could you make a video on exporting images for social media and for clients etc to get the sharpest quality!?
Christina, thank you sooo much. I'm flattered to be your new fav
Joy Michelle Photography your welcome ❤️❤️ awesome!! I’ll look for it! Thanks a bunch!
I asked Taylor to do one and he said he's workin on it. Have you done a 'worst wedding' video yet? Or more tastefully, a video about the most challenging situations you encountered and how you handled them on-site (and how you would have handled them in hindsight)? Thanks :)
Yes I have a wedding nightmares video Hahha
i totally agree with you, on the whole, making yourself a brand and building a sort of inclusivity that people feel like they can be a part of but... like... i'm so stuck in my head about only posting just one form of photography on my Instagram when i really want to start posting not just on form of photography to connect with people more T.T
Great advice !! Some things we keep needing to be reminded of.
One thing I wish I knew before I started was to purchase a prime lens first and foremost, because you can get the most bang for your buck with one. Especially the 50mm f/1.8! But I loved the video! Keep up the great work! You have such a great screen presence! Cheers from Boston!
Oh I 100% Agree. Primes just have that creamy bokeh and that one is a great buy cost-wise!
I love how honest these are. People sometimes post videos and its like 'marketing' etc. I wish I knew that at times it can be very lonely.
Yes that’s another great point. Working for yourself is def lonely and can make you feel crazy!
I struggle with it. I have my own studio and sometimes I see no one for days other than clients ha! My friends are self employed so its often hard to meet up. We know demand a coffee with one of us each at least a week
Mines would be definitely knowing the business side of photography and building clientele. Still struggling a little
Chris, you’re def not alone! So many creatives feel this way! Be sure to join my FB group Photoboss With Joy Michelle for more biz chats
What's your thoughts on buying presets from other photographers? Would you call that copying others work?
I don't think buying a preset counts as copying because a preset will only take you so far. You are still the artist taking and composing (and posing) your image
"You cannot buy attention." This is good Joy!
It’s so true! I want a print of this in my office ;) hahha attributed to me of course #narcissist
I wish I knew how important networking with other vendors in the wedding business would be. Forming friendships with other wedding vendors is one of the most crucial things you can do to grow awareness of your business. Becoming a "preferred vendor" really helps you gain recognition and set you ahead of the competition. I'm not a preferred vendor yet, but I'm working on it :)
Great goal & point! Thanks for sharing !!!
Hello, Joy! I just came across your videos and have been watching them for the last few days - I LOVE your advice and how clearly you explain everything. Thank You! *Warning - LONG QUESTION* I'm currently in that awkward "just starting out reading and watching everything everyday to learn as much as possible" phase. And I so desperately want to start shooting everyday and have known I need to. Here's my problem: I don't have a camera!!! =0 And, my phone really isn't an option. I've asked around and no one I know has one. So, I need to buy one and my dilemma is to buy a beginner camera or invest for the future and buy my dream camera (Nikon D850)? I know buying a beginner camera sounds like it makes that most sense - save money initially, settings easier to manage, what if I change my mind about this photography thing - but I feel like everything is pointing me to buying a professional one - I KNOW wedding and engagement photography is what I want to do, so why spend a 1/3 of what it's cost to get my dream camera on something I'll just need to upgrade in 6 months to a year anyway, and learning the camera and it's settings won't be too much for me as I'm very tech savvy. So, in my mind, everything says buy the Nikon D850! Is there something I'm missing that'd point me in the other direction? And I'd have to save up for about 4-6 months to get my dream camera, any suggestions as to what I should do in the mean time? The craigslist ads for a 5-year-old used camera where they're only asking $200 less than what it'd cost to buy it new scare me, lol, and don't seem like a good idea. If you have the time to read all this and get back I soooooo THANK YOU! Much love, DAVA :) P.S. If I do get the Nikon D850, I'd only be able to afford 1 lens at first. Which do you suggest?
Hi Dava, thanks for watching and thanks for this comment. I one hundred percent agree with you that if you think you’re going to do this professionally and your heart is really in photography you should go straight for a full frame camera like the D850. I think that you’ll be happy you went full frame to begin with because you won’t feel the need to upgrade so quickly as well. If you can only afford one lines I recommend you invest in a 50 mm 1.4. It’s not as expensive as many other lenses but it is a really good standard one and I use it all the time!! Be sure to join my Facebook group for extra help along the way!
Thank You!
Thanks for the info! Good luck on your journey 😎😎
Thank you! You too!
How come you have less than 2000 views ? you deserve millionsss of likes! Thank you so much.
Haha Thanks!! Feel free to share about my channel! :)
I wish I’d learnt to plan properly. How much you need to hustle, and most importantly, network.
Good points!!
Thanks for these tips Joy
Thank you so much for this video it was so honest and helpful.
thanks!
What kind of photography do you do?
Hi Joy, thank you for asking! I am a portrait photographer just starting to dive into weddings and launch my business. My husband has been a landscape/ travel photographer for a while and has taught me most of what I know. I really resonate with what you said "until I was comfortable with my prices and product my clients won't be either". I find confrontation difficult and It's hard to be totally confident in pricing and all the details when you are just starting out.
Thank you for all these helpful videos! I’m always scared to get started due to not fully knowing what I’m doing but I’m glad to have these videos help out. May I know how you set up an online gallery for your clients to choose prints from?
You're welcome! I use the gallery system called pixieset :)
My one thing i wish I knew: don’t delete original files when are done editing. Sigh. As educational process you will revisit your old pictures and try to edit it different as you learn new things, so original must be separate.
Great tip!!
What is the gear you use ? Just excited to know...By the way Love your content
Hi there! thanks so much. All my gear is linked in the description. I have a whats in my camera bag vid too!
It would have been nice to know that there is a huge community of amazing photographer willing to help and educate.
Those communities can be SERIOUSLY so tough to find but they make all the difference.
Joy thanks for the tip on Honeybook - do you have a Honeybook agreement template that you could share?
Stop comparing your work and just appreciate others good work
I wish I understood networking and better business acument altogether.
Check out my marketing course joymichellephotography.lpages.co/h-b-brides-mini-sales-page/
I don't understand the last point...how can you make people feel like they belong to your brand? Could you explain that? maybe make a video on it? What I wish I knew about photography?....Its a lot of work! From A-Z...and that it is very hard to duplicate
YOU ARE AMAZING! I’m still learning everyday. I strive to be the best I can be and a photographer that people drop their jaw at my work. Time will tell 😍
Yay keep working towards that goal!!!
Great Advice !
Thank you!
this is the best advice I've heard for a long time! Thank you!
Thanks so much
just a question did you study to become a photographer?
I didn’t get a degree in photography, no. I went to school for Graphic Design.
@@Joymichelle alright thank you do you think it's good to study for photography (in my senior year now so need to make a change)
This is bizarre! The sound speed of this video suddenly went super slow and while I initially thought it was part of the video, after a solid minute, I now realize something is a muck.
AWESOME advice!!
The most helpful thing I've watched!!!!
Thanks for saying so!!
I wish I knew camera gear is so expensive. I started with a kit existing of a Canon rebel and a 18-55 and 55-250 which cost me about 900 € and I thought that would suit me for years ...
YES. I couldn't agree with this more. and the business side is just as bad. taxes, website, design, everything. gah.
And a fast computer, multiple external hard drives, a legitimate LR and PS ...
The list goes on and on!!
I guess photography cost me 20.000 $ the past 10 years and I'm not even a pro. Following courses that were no good. Buying cameras and selling them half a year later to buy newer stuff … Lenses I'll never use … The list goes on.
I wish I knew more about the business side of photography. I'm still struggling lol
Totally can relate - so many photographers want to focus on the art. Are you in my FB group?
What is your Facebook group? I’m struggling with the same
Agree 100%
Thanks for watching & commenting
What's one thing you wish you knew before starting photography?!
I wish I knew that my brand is not my logo, but my photos. Because, when I started photography, I always focus on ''where is my logo'' , ''how does it look'' , ''ou the logo isn't enough to see on my photos''.... That was the big mistake and I wish I knew that.
Thanks for sharing that. So much wisdom! Brand is so much more than logo!
How important it is to define your target market!
oohhh good one! it's pretty aimless without that, I'm afraid.
"there are somethings you just have to learn from experience, that cannot be taught." my mentor taught me that lesson. that defiantly goes to finding your style.
Couldn't agree more!!!!
Indeed. I wish other photographers went out there and discovered themselves. I think we [new photographers] rely too much on "rules" rather than their artistic ability. What person A may like, person B may dislike. but it doesn't mean it's not art. Yes, learning the foundation is important, it helps you break those so-called rules. That's why we have so many makers of cameras, the companies want to be in the forefront of your artistic creativity.
Great video Joy. I really liked the topic in this and I think your resulting insights are very interesting to hear. Keep up the excellent work. I've subbed. If you get a moment i'd highly appreciate feedback on any of my first photography vlog videos. Feedback from more experienced vloggers is always awesome to get. All the best, cheers
Thanks so much!!
Sooo you're saying I'm not an expert because I watched a hundred hours of TH-cam videos? Ughh... What a waste of time!
Haha! 🤣🤣 almost