How to Steps to Becoming a Fine Art Photographer
- 1). Do your homework. In order to take quality pictures, you need to fully understand how a camera works. You need to figure out the meaning behind an f-stop or a zoom lens, and more importantly, you need to understand how you can make them work for you. Beyond the actual mechanics of a camera, you need to know how to take pictures to achieve effects. A lot of this is trial and error, but you will need to understand focus, filters and more. To do this, you should read up on the subject and get a lot of experience behind the camera.
- 2). Understand the names and events. Do you know who Ansel Adams, Annie Leibovitz or Dorothea Lange are? Become familiar with the history of photography, including the famous photographers who have made a name for themselves over the years. This serves as a show of an appreciation of your craft and an inspiration for your art-not a technique to copy.
- 3). Get an education. No matter what career you decide to pursue, an education can only help. This does not mean that some of the best photographers never received any formal schooling on their art. However, it is always good to have a back up. You will be amazed by the resources that can be available while getting your education, and the knowledgeable staff that can help guide you in the development of your art.
- 4). Apply for a job in the field. This will be considerably easier with an education, but often a great portfolio is enough to get you employment. Even if the photography position you apply for is in a commercial setting as opposed to a fine art one, it is still experience in your field that will help build up your background and credibility as an artist.
- 5). Constantly refine your craft. Technology is evolving everyday and so should your knowledge of your industry. Become aware of developments in technology that can lead to innovations in the field. Take pictures all the time and constantly explore new things.
- 6). Think in an innovative way. No artist ever got anywhere from playing it safe or sticking to the same old thing. You will need to be fresh and innovative in your approach-even if you are still taking more classic photographs. Like in any art form, you need to offer something new and interesting in the photography community to become recognized for your work.
- 7). Submit your work. Find outlets to get your photography displayed. This could be in an exhibition at your local art museum, a restaurant, a community center or anyplace else. It could even by in an online forum or print magazine-just submit and submit as often as you can. Get your style recognized as much as possible so it can be associated with the type of work that you do. This will help your audience determine what kind of photographer you are.
- 8). Never stop taking pictures. Keep your camera on your side or around your neck at all times. You never know when a photo opportunity will present itself that will be the photo you are forever recognized for. Never stop taking pictures or developing as an artist, and you will be satisfied with the strides you make over the course of your career.
