Will Going Pro Ruin Your Love of Photography?

One of the most common warnings you will hear about going pro as a photographer is that it will ruin your love for the craft. Why is that? Is it true, and if so, what can you do to mitigate that? This excellent video essay features a long-time professional photographer discussing the issue and his experience. 

Coming to you from Scott Choucino of Tin House Studio, this great video essay discusses the issue of becoming a professional photographer and its effect on one's love of the craft. Without a doubt, becoming a professional can have a detrimental effect on your passion, as you realize that everything that goes into a business takes you away from the camera more than you might have ever imagined. It can also be difficult when you lose creative freedom, as you have to work to cater to the needs and desires of clients. This is part of the reason why seasoned professionals advocate so strongly for undertaking personal projects. Not only will these help you maintain your passion, they will also expand your creative palette, which can only serve to help you gain more clients. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Choucino. 

Alex Cooke's picture

Alex Cooke is a Cleveland-based portrait, events, and landscape photographer. He holds an M.S. in Applied Mathematics and a doctorate in Music Composition. He is also an avid equestrian.

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