There are many "assignments for pay" that serious amateurs are qualified to do -- family portraits, local events, and special celebrations, just to name a few. There are a few keys to success however. First, you must be prepared equipment-wise to meet any challenge that is thrown your way during the shoot (this includes having backup equipment). Only take assignments that are within your skills as a photographer and can be accomplished with the equipment in your bag. Next, you need to communicate clearly with the client before the shoot so their expectations are in line with yours. Then put it in writing and both parties should have a signed copy. Finally, fulfill your responsibilities in the time frame you promised.
By following these basic steps, you're on your way to a rewarding second income. I cover these concepts and more in this week's podcast.
Monthly Photo Assignment
Duotone is also this month's photo assignment. This will be a fun gallery that lets us explore new ways to tone B&W images. Hopefully this podcast will help you prepare a great entry for the assignment. You can read more about how to submit on our Submissions page. Deadline for entry is Sept. 30.
Listen to the Podcast
Now that I've piqued your curiosity, it's time to listen to today's audio show titled, "Side Jobs." You can download the podcast here (28 minutes). You can also subscribe to the podcast in iTunes
The Digital Story Podcasts are available for direct download from Apple iPhones. I've created a special mobile download page here. Just load the page in Safari, browse the podcast line-up, and click on the one you want to listen to.
Want to share photos and talk with other members in our virtual camera club? Check out our new Flickr Public Group. It's a blast!
Have you looked at the Park by the Numbers Camera Phone Project? If you have a camera phone, you've got to check this out.
Events! See the TDS Event Calendar for photography workshops, speaking engagements, and trade show appearances.
Technorati Tags: digital photography, podcast, The Digital Story
Sponsor Notes...
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I listen to your podcast every week and enjoy the reviews tips and all the rest.
You comments about some people with $20,000 of equipment are better than those with less value gear are hurtful to some.
Surely it is not the camera (or value) that takes a picture but the idiot on the other side of the viewscreen?
In the old days of film - which I still use when I can - unless you knew and were one with a camera/photograph no matter how expensive the camera the picture was still the same - bad or good depending on the person taking the picture
I have witnessed a millionare taking pictures with a very expensive Leica and her daughter with an old Yashica on a boat in the middle of a Maui harbour - guess who took the better picture when they were developed and printed?
I understand your reasons for putting both sides of the argument but even a pro is no good if the work required is not what they can do - always make sure those you hire are up to the work required not just because they are a photographer.
A portrait photographer is not as good at taking industrial scenes as an industrial photographer and vice versa.
Keep up with the shows though but your comments on the 'side jobs' will stir up some more I bet.
Regards
Graham Burton
Hi Graham, thanks for listening and posting your comments. I'm surprised at your interpretation though. There are certain jobs that require extensive equipment, usually lighting. If you're shooting a factory interior and have to light many elements in there including a subject or subjects, you will need expensive lighting to do so.
This is not a knock on the serious photographer who is talented and owns a single shoe mount flash. It's just the way it is. Those big jobs require big equipment and the knowledge of how to use it.
My point is, pros with that type of equipment should focus on jobs requiring that expertise, and serious amateurs should identify the types of jobs they are equipped for. It's really a very practical approach.
I know photogafer photoshope
Other side job opportunities in photography include: weddings, bar mitzvahs, birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, awards, press releases and family reunions, There seems to be no end to the amount of side jobs that photography offers.
I listen to your podcast every week and enjoy the reviews tips and all the rest.
You comments about some people with $20,000 of equipment are better than those with less value gear are hurtful to some.
Surely it is not the camera (or value) that takes a picture but the idiot on the other side of the viewscreen?
In the old days of film - which I still use when I can - unless you knew and were one with a camera/photograph no matter how expensive the camera the picture was still the same - bad or good depending on the person taking the picture
I have witnessed a millionare taking pictures with a very expensive Leica and her daughter with an old Yashica on a boat in the middle of a Maui harbour - guess who took the better picture when they were developed and printed?
I understand your reasons for putting both sides of the argument but even a pro is no good if the work required is not what they can do - always make sure those you hire are up to the work required not just because they are a photographer.
A portrait photographer is not as good at taking industrial scenes as an industrial photographer and vice versa.
Keep up with the shows though but your comments on the 'side jobs' will stir up some more I bet.
gud information thanx alot
good,.