While travelling may be a chore for certain individuals, it is a preferred lifestyle for some.
More travel enthusiasts are starting to make a living from documenting the cultures, realities and lifestyle of each place they visit.
This form of documentation has been in existence for decades but has gained more recognition in recent times because of online
presentation of travel photography.
In the wise words of Harriet Tubman, “every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the
patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world”.
Tubman understood the truth in achieving a dream if only one would work towards it while believing in themselves.
That being said, if you have been harbouring the passion to kickstart a career in travel photography, this is what you’ve been waiting for.
After these four steps are properly implemented, you’ll be making money while travelling in no time:
Master photography tools and equipment
It is one thing to be enthusiastic about taking pictures and another to actually document them.
Becoming a professional travel photographer requires the understanding of the technical tools and equipment involved.
Thankfully, with the availability of the internet, learning to understand the use and composition of photography equipment has
become easier.
YouTube, Instagram and personal websites of successful travel photographers are platforms from which you can learn useful photography
tips.
It is important to familiarise with travel photography terminologies, stay updated on new concepts and styles.
Build your portfolio
Just like freelancing and entrepreneurship, choosing a career in travel photography requires patience, hard work and dedication.
It is important to focus on building a portfolio featuring outstanding works before obsessing over profit-making.
The surest way to build a portfolio is being available for travelling opportunities and properly documenting every
project.
Sieving out of portfolio materials will be necessary with time. This process of growth will be important as your travel photography career grows.
You wouldn’t want to have a portfolio clogged with unnecessary material.
Define your passion for photography
You will never feel fulfilled if you take up a career without having the right amount of passion.
It is important to outline whether you truly have a passion for travelling and travel photography. In doing this, professional
growth, creativity and sustainability will be readily available in the long run.
Make the right connections
It’s never enough to be a great travel photographer. Every artist needs collaborations to move forward.
Making connections involves stepping out of one’s comfort zone to interact with others and sell one’s self. Selling your self is only
achievable by conversing, sharing ideas and background stories.
But it isn’t just enough to make connections because not everyone we meet turns out to be of interest to us.
For this reason, it is important to make the right connections: attend the right events, make small talk and forge relationships.
