Building a robust and strong photography portfolio is something that takes a lot of effort, persistence, and patience, and many of us spend years before we have a decent collection of images we are really proud of. So, how much persistence does it really take? This interesting video features a professional landscape photographer breaking down the numbers of how often he goes out and how many portfolio-worthy images he comes back with in a year.
Coming to you from Thomas Heaton, this insightful video examines just how persistent one has to be to get a good collection of portfolio-worthy images. If there is one thing I have learned in a variety of different areas of life, it is that persistence is often better than raw talent, and that applies just as much in photography. Consistently getting out with your camera is the best way to keep your skills sharp, expand your creative palette, and find those magical moments where everything comes together for the perfect shot. There are no shortcuts. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Heaton.
And if you really want to dive into landscape photography, check out "Photographing The World 1: Landscape Photography and Post-Processing with Elia Locardi," which is currently on sale along with the rest of the Fstoppers store.
"How Often Do You Need to Head Out to Get Great Images?"
That is entirely dependent upon subjective criteria, such as what one's objectives are, and what one considers to be a "great image". The answer will be different for each photographer.
Isn't that the truth!? I've been out a bunch of times trying to get a snowy owl. No joy so far. I'm hoping to go out again next week. I'm trying to figure out a way to pay one to pose for me. :-)
A friend of mine is doing quite well with Snowy Owls where she lives in western Michigan. That's only a one day drive from you, isn't it? Maybe you'd be interested in heading that way for Snowys. If so, let me know, and I can see if she'll share some location-specific info with you.
Thanks, Tom. The funny thing is, the snowys are quiet plentiful here. It's just like they know when I'm out looking for them. One of my photo friends has been getting the same result until a few days ago. He finally got close enough for a decent shot. They hang around southern Manitoba well into February, so I have time. I just have to stay persistent.
I love Tom's videos, I've been a follower for years. He is always down to earth, never pretentious. A lot of his words travel with me when I shoot.