Candice Thompson
In Motion Staff Writer
The biennial Alumni Focus exhibit had a short run that ended Sept. 20, but not before kicking off on Sept. 9 with a special panel presentation from Daytona State College alumni.
A dozen former DSC students were represented within the exhibition, but the panel — moderated by Daytona State Photography professor Steven Benson — featured Betsy Hansen, Ashley McCormick, Ed McDonald and David Roark. The focus of the discussion was their careers as successful photographers, as well as a forum of helpful tips and tricks of the trade for novices.
The lecture was held in the Hosseini Center and packed with students eagerly awaiting speakers’ advice, notebooks in hand. From marketing to copywriting, the panel generously covered an array of topics aimed at helping students succeed in the tough world of photography.
Different photographers have different opinions, sometimes even conflicting. Such was the case in the panel talk, but it was a positive for students and allowed them to hear different perspectives.
Some of the advice given to new photographers was to never stop shooting, especially once they graduate. A lot of times, photographers will put down their camera for a “break,” but never pick it up again. Unfortunately, this happens too often, a couple of the professionals warned the audience.
Another important tip is to find a niche. Weddings, portraits, marketing and food photography have many paths. They recommended trying everything, then figuring out what keeps you motivated and feeds your passion. Make that your only form of photography. It is easier to learn everything there is about that one style when it is the only thing focused on.
“The type of work that I show attracts a certain type of client,” says McCormick, a prominent wedding photographer who has been published in glossy magazines such as Southern Living and The Knot.
For her, that client would be someone who can afford high-end wedding photography done in outdoor settings with natural light.
To copyright or not? Not necessarily was the advice from panel photographer McDonald, who works for corporate clients as a freelancer. Figure out if the company needs that image more than you do. Can you use the image again? If not, then his suggestion. “Negotiate. Get something for it, and move on.”
McDonald encourages students to read books on everything from taxes to marketing. Attend workshops. Shadow photographers.
“Don’t worry about the pay day. Find a way to make them want you with them.”
In addition, keep up with advancing technology and the ever changing assortment of social media. Use it to your advantage. In fact, staying ahead of the cusp is crucial.
“Just the arc of technology that we’ve had to adapt to. It’s adapt or die,” said veteran Disney photographer Roark.
Even Benson chimed in, giving a noteworthy recommendation. “Never stop doing your personal work. That’s really where your vision will evolve and grow. Never stop learning.”