a aI have been a photographer for just about ten years. It is harder than I ever thought it could be but it brings me the most professional joy I have ever experienced. So I guess the pros outweigh the cons for sure. But this industry is really something anyone can get into at any time. There are no regulations or qualifications that HAVE TO happen for you to start. Don’t get me wrong there are definitely things you should do before starting this business or any business for that matter. But that’s not really what this post is about. Lol
Putting it all out there
In an industry where there are photographers in every neighborhood of every city, standing out can be a bit of a challenge. Especially for someone like me who really hates to market and sell myself. I would love for the experience I provide along with the quality of my work and products to speak for themselves. That doesn’t always work either. And of course I always second guess myself and my “skills”.
One of the groups I follow on social media is Senior Year Magazine. This group is filled with inspirational and amazing senior photographers all over the world. I just love seeing so much talent all in one space. They actually have a magazine that is internationally published. I told myself this year I was going to step out of my comfort zone a bit and allow myself to be judged so to speak. I decided to submit some images to be published and see if I could make the cut.
Magazine submissions
I headed over to their website and checked out their submission deadlines and themes they were looking for. I had just finished up a few sessions with my senior team this year and had some galleries I was proud of. The magazine was doing a Black & White issue and I thought why not. I have only been published in one magazine before but it was because I was part of a group project and it was for my maternity work, not for seniors. I reached out to my families, prepared the photos and sent them in.
Surprise Surprise
Since I had never submitted to this magazine before I wasn’t sure how their process worked. I had no idea how I would know if any of my images were selected. I never heard anything and just figured that there are way more talented senior photographers than me and I could always try again. When the magazine came out the link was published in the group and, much to my surprise, there was my name!! …..TWO of my images were picked. I was so excited!
Getting Published
Getting my work published in a magazine was not always at the top of my priority list but I have to say I am pretty excited. Stepping out of my comfort zone was a bit scary and might be with it once in a while. Maybe I’ll do it again! I do have the best seniors around so stay tuned!
Check out all the images I sent in for submission and which ones got picked. If you want to check out the magazine, you can order a digital copy HERE.
I am currently booking Seniors Class of 2024 but if you still need senior pictures for this year, reach out and I’d love to chat. Let’s get that session done. You can reach me HERE.
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