Becoming a successful photographer is a remarkably complex thing that takes the confluence of a range of skills, creativity, and often, a bit of luck. If you are new to photography and wondering how to bring it all together, check out this great video that features an experienced photographer discussing things no one really teaches beginners.
Coming to you from First Man Photography, this awesome video discusses some things that newer photographers are rarely told about. One thing that I think a lot of newer photographers unfortunately get wrong is the crucial importance of being a competent and committed businessperson. Of course, having skill behind the camera and at the computer is crucial, but many photographers focus solely on these things. The sad truth is that there are a lot of talented photographers out there who do not find success because they do not understand how to market their talents and land clients. On the other hand, there are a lot of successful photographers who may not be world-beating at their craft, but who are competent and who know how to run a proper business and get and keep clients. Check out the video above for the full rundown.
Incisive commentary, and the video is worth watching to the end. I also agree with his comments on NFTs.
Re profiting from photography, we live in a society where success, value, and worth are framed in economic terms; this narrative is incredibly powerful, and difficult to break.
As someone who ran my own business for over a decade, I don't want my photographs to become a product. To explain, if you are running a business, profit is the most important thing, and everything is driven by that central fact; you also have to network, market, manage your brand, manage your risk, do your books, do your taxes, etc. Photography is only a small part of running a business, and you *must* produce.
To Alex's point re business education, if you are considering a "we'll give you the skills to be a professional" type course, ask where their business and marketing units are; indeed, you may be better off doing a professional level business and marketing course.
Yes, being a business person is more important than being a skilled photographer. Sadly I was the latter for 35 years of self employment.
I worked with people who made a good living out of it who had little photographic knowledge or skills.
Part of my problem is what I refused to do...worthless poses, puppies in flower pots and babies with hideous floral head dresses or pixie/fairy oitfits :)
Digital has undoubtedly impacted on the industry enabling a lack of knowledge to no longer be a barrier...anyone with a "nice camera" can now call themselves photographers....and the market accepts that.
Can't think of another trade where this works. I could buy a bag of plumber's tools. Doesn't make me a plumber.
So many were left with working for school and graduation photography clients where your labour in the 21st century is worth around £15 p/h.
In the 1980's when the layman new little about exposure, processing and printing I could charge £50 p/h. And did!
To be slightly contrarian, if you screw up plumbing, you are going to have one hell of a litigation on your hands, and your insurer may have a thing or two to say about indemnification.
However, your point is entirely reasonable.