What do you like most about being a photographer?

Kerry Drager:
The creative outlet is certainly a driving force. But there's also the documentary side - to share my visual discoveries and my travels with others. And I always appreciate the excitement of capturing the beautiful light of sunrise or sunset, or just before or after a storm.

What do you dislike about being a photographer?

Fisherman - Morro Bay © Kerry Drager All Rights Reserved

Kerry Drager:
The "busy work" - say, the sorting and filing of images - definitely gets old fast. Then there are the times when things just don't go right - for instance, getting up really early and waiting for a fantastic sunrise to occur, and (despite a "perfect" weather forecast) finding that heavy fog blocks the sun. Ouch!

What advice do you have for someone who simply wants to improve their photography skills?

Kerry Drager:
Online classes are a great way to start, of course. Plus, study the contest winners and finalists each month, check out the Deluxe BetterPholios™ and galleries, and read articles and books. Last but very definitely not least: Shoot, study your images later, re-shoot (if possible) any images that have flaws, and then repeat the process... over and over again.

Here at BetterPhoto we often get questions from people who want to become "Professional Photographers". What advice do you have for someone who says they are looking for available photography jobs and want to pursue a career in photography? Is there a key to making a name for yourself or making a living?

Kerry Drager:
First off, make sure your shooting skills are at a professional level. Not sure? Review the work of those pros who would be your competitors. If your photography needs a boost, then follow my advice above.

Next, learn all you can about your field of professional interest. Do a search at BetterPhoto for Q&A tips on getting started in specific fields: stock, studio, commercial, wedding, etc. Get a Web site, if you don't already have one. If you are interested in getting published, buy a copy of the annual Photographer's Market book. Consider taking an online photo course in business and marketing.

Lastly, beware of the "fear factor". Many budding professionals are afraid of being rejected, although rejection is a big part of professional photography. Some photographers whose work is turned down feel discouraged and give up. Other shooters also feel discouraged, but quickly become energized by the rejection: They try even harder.
Strive to be one of those people who views a negative (rejection) in a positive way!

Self-Portrait, Old Dump Truck © Kerry Drager All Rights Reserved

Thanks so much for your time, Kerry! We really appreciate you sharing your experiences and thoughts on photography.
Denise Miotke
BetterPhoto.com

All photos and text © Kerry Drager and BetterPhoto.com, Inc., all rights reserved worldwide. No form of reproduction or usage - including copying, altering, or saving of digital image and text files - is permitted without the express written permission of Kerry Drager and BetterPhoto.com, Inc.