In the vast realm of photography, pricing one's art can be a perplexing quest. During my teaching days at universities, the common query from students was, "How do I make money from art/ photography?" Honestly, I never had a straightforward answer. Despite career progression and financial gains, the idea of offering photography as a service never quite resonated with me—I always saw myself more as an artist than just a photographer.
The persistent thought of leaving commercial photography behind lingered, fueled by a peculiar frustration that magically dissipated when I was taking pictures just for myself. It led me to reconsider the question: "Do I genuinely want to make money from my photography?" I mean, do I want photography as a job?
This introspective journey nudged me towards fully embracing the artistic side of photography. Choosing this path has been transformative, exceeding my wildest expectations. Liberated from the constraints of commercial demands, I've rediscovered the joy of capturing moments authentically
For those grappling with the money-making conundrum in photography, consider these insights from my own journey:
Define Your Relationship with Photography: Reflect on what photography truly means to you. Is it a source of artistic expression or a means to generate income? Understanding this can guide your approach.
Balance Between Art and Commerce: Striking a balance is crucial. Find ways to merge your artistic vision with practical considerations. It's not an all-or-nothing scenario; there's room for compromise.
Rediscover the Joy: Take a step back and rekindle your passion for photography. Focus on the joy of creating art rather than conforming to market expectations.
No longer confined by market expectations, I've found freedom in chasing the elusive beauty in the ordinary. The decision to prioritize the artistic side of photography didn't just reshape my career; it reignited my passion for the lens in ways I hadn't anticipated.
Join the Conversation:
Photography is a personal journey, and I invite you to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments. How do you balance the artistic and commercial aspects of photography? Let's build a community that celebrates the true essence of this captivating art form.