Thank you for always wearing your heart on your sleeve so to speak. Your honestly and candor is always appreciated and on point. Honest truths can be harder to accept but carry more value. Thank you
Congratulations on what you have achieved. Having worked in a secure position for 40 years I am aware of your courage in doing what you have. All the best and I hope things look up soon.
A very good video Adam. Photography for me was a second career having built up a business in another sector and sold it on. Photography was a passion and the logical step was to turn it into a career so i attended training courses designed to help me start my new business. I quickly realised that the business knowledge in the sector was lacking and training was on the sexy stuff - the photography and the sales process. Risk was never really discussed and the attendees were told what they wanted to hear rather than what they needed to know. Most people seem to have a romantic idea of what will be involved and no-one mentioned the most important thing that anyone needs to do and that is to be disciplined. Work outside of your comfort zones and that will set you apart from so many people.
I thought about going professional and was ready to take the leap when my wife was diagnosed with cancer and the doctors told me how much time I would need to care for her during chemotherapy. My plans were put on hold. That was 5 years ago and after 2 other cancer diagnoses in that time and her 3 major operations I hadn't given up on the idea. She's just had another diagnosis and will need 6 months of chemotherapy and possibly immunotherapy afterwards and we'll need to shield against Covid-19 and I'll again need to provide care during chemo, I guess my plans won't come to fruition. I'm fortunate that I can work from home and and adapt my work hours to fit around caring commitments and I can't give up this stability at present. I won't be able to leave the house very often because of the need to shield and photography will be off the agenda for a while. This is another good, honest video Adam and I wish you very success with your business and I enjoy your video content, but not as much as viewing your excellent images.
Hope your wife's health improves soon. Life can change in a moment; illness, accident, pandemic, redundancy and more. It's how we deal with these tragedies that makes us caring humans.
Thank you Andrew, my wife is into the first month of 6 months of chemo and hopefully afterwards I can re-assess my decisions. Thanks for reaching out, its much appreciated.
Thank you for your candid and down to earth video. Glad you hung in there and wish you all the success. Being in business on your own can be incredibly rewarding and also terrifying especially in years like this. Adaptability and perseverance, you have them both.
Hello Adam I want to say thank you for being real with your photography and how things really work in this industry. I have been fallowing your channel for a long time and its one channel that has helped me grow as a person and a photographer. Thank you so much for producing such great work. I look forward to your next video.
I'm certain you will continue in your success. You have everything you need: technical knowledge, relatability, good business sense, great communication skills, and beautiful photographs. I appreciate your candor and enjoy your videos. Keep 'em coming. Thanks.
Hi Adam, as a Self Employed Loudspeaker Design Engineer Consultant myself I found your Video most refreshing, heartfelt and honest. Everything you have outlined applies to being a one man band. Very good advice across the board. Like Photography, the Leisure Industry and also the Professional Recording Studios have been severely hit by the Pandemic so diversifying is exactly the key to survival in business. I have now moved into world of high end bespoke loudspeaker systems for personal rather than comercial customers.Just to say that the reason that I subscribe to your channel is because I can see that you are the real deal. This video has made that very clear. I hope things continue to grow for you. In he new year I hope to get on one of your in the field courses for my 6oth birthday all being well. Cheers Ian ( Leicester, UK ).
An honest account of the realities, thank you for being so open and sharing your experiences. It’s nice to understand where you came from and how you made the transition into your photography career. Thanks for the content
I'm love photography and people are telling me I'm good enough to go pro...people are always offering me money for prints. If it becomes my job, my survival I will be pressured and I will no longer enjoy it. I work stuck indoors all week and get out on the weekends only. Fair play to anyone who puts themselves through this pressure. If I don't get a good shot on a particular weekend hey ho, I've had a good walk, good exercise and then it's back to work Monday morning for guaranteed income but the downside is stuck indoors. I can't make that transition so well done and good luck. All I can say is have a back up plan. 2021, no vaccine no border pass, no border pass no pictures. I can't take a needle to take a picture. Have options in reserve. Tough times ahead, very tough.
@@dayeah765caoni3 Your two short sentences, hardly strung together, are GIBBERISH (in capitals, so you know how it's spelt). Is your attention span so limited that you can't get through an intelligent observation?
Pretty good video. I ran my own successful masonry business for over 10 years and everything you say is true about running a business. In our case the artistic aspect was pretty rare but very meaningful with the right client. I was into photography at a young age and well into my 20's with my first camera being a Yashica twin lens reflex and I left the hobby with a Nikon F2 and Leica M2. I'm now starting again with the aim of part time. Knowing the ropes of business, I hope to have some success. And thank you for all the reminders of the ups and downs of all aspects of being a business owner.
I'm kind of in the same boat you are/were. I've been a police officer for 32 years and a part time outdoor writer/photographer for more than 20. I'm getting ready to retire from my police department and start the photography thing full time. It's always been my passion and you have inspired me greatly! Thank you Adam!
You're a great person and a great photographer too. This are hard times (covid times) and the whole world is proceeding like an old car in an uncertain way where the true value of the work is not appreciated. Often in my life I had to face two jobs because what I had chosen for ability and passion was not enough to live with dignity and yes, being a freelancer is a hard battle that often leads you to suffer but also brings beautiful moments of freedom and happiness. A big hug and thank you !
Compelling watching and listening. You have always worn your heart on your sleeve and this is certainly no different. You can hear your struggle and, in that, your honesty and drive for improvement have kept you moving forward. Keep the faith. And for you confidence your are one of the more interesting photography watches on UT.
Thank you Adam for another great video. Yes, I get that its about the business aspect of being a photographer, but for me it was exactly what I needed to hear given that I'm on the cusp of making that leap. Really appreciate your honesty and straight forward candor. You also struck a chord in mentioning your previous work with the UK police. I personally work for the ambulance service in NZ, so in some ways, with you coming from the police service, made it that much more personal for me. Thank you once again
Excellent honest video. Interesting to hear the modern take on taking the plunge. I once took the plunge before the days of UA-cam when I was young and lacked discipline. I eventually gave it all up, but to this day I still crave being able to do it all 24/7.
Thanks for your honesty and insight. I'm thinking of transitioning to professional photography and your video has touched many bases which I've already considered...and some I haven't. Making the change as you did, with dependents was very brave and I'm glad its paid off. You have a great channel and I wish you success in the future.
While I've no intention of going professional - I just want to continuously improve my landscape photography - I found this very interesting . I was one of your earliest followers on here ( but by no means the first) and I've often commented on your invariably stimulating videos and images. I do that less often lately, as I now watch UA-cam on my smart TV, which doesn't have the comment facility. Nonetheless I watch all of your videos. Fwiw, I'd say your crucial quality is the sense you project that you are a guy one wants to spend time with, if only on here. Your photography is excellent, but many excellent photographers are on UA-cam . You stand out as a humane, balanced and reflective artist. I wish you well in all you do.
Experience is almost always the best teacher and the best teachers always teach from their experience! Thanks for sharing yours with us, most appreciated and as always, most enjoyed.
i am very glad you share this feelings and over all that your self confidence got stronger is not easy is a hard and strong pad , and yes there are many people who are just full of crab and will tell you you are not good enough and they will love to put you down because they believe the best way to get to the top is taking you out of the way , we all know ignorance cames in all sizes and colours please dont you dare to stop been who you are and been positive you are a great artist and a big inspiration keep it strong buddy you are the architect of your own future .my big respect .
Thank you for taking the time to put together such an informative video. This is excellent advice for literally any start up or small business and is delivered in a clear and no nonsense manner. I wish you all the very best.
I to spent 22 years in the Army and then started my own garage business and as you say it's hard. I think unless you have a pension or money to last/ invest for 3/5 years then chances are you won't make it. You have to have time to build up your clients. This has to be done slowly or you risk working for Arse wipes. I found that word of mouth was by far the best advertisement. One good good job/happy customer will get you at least five more. But if I were you I would be putting 50% of your efforts into inspiration talking . Your a natural. I think that is what sets your videos apart from the rest. Photographers or not, anyone will take inspiration from your videos. Keep up the good work.
Thank you Adam, I really appreciate you putting this video together, it's super helpful and I enjoyed watching. I hope you do manage to do another instalment re: Social Media etc. This would be really helpful too. Thanks again.
This was utterly brilliant, Adam. I've been a working pro for 35 years, most recently on a 20-year salaried job (pretty sweet). Then came Covid, and I am back freelancing again. You have no idea how much this encouraged me!
Thanks Adam for sharing your story do honestly and with such openness. I really hope that your business will survive through this pandemic and then on the other side my it it flourish. Thank you for your excellent work.
What a great video, sage advice, and shows the drive and enthusiasm which got you to where you are today, Running your own business is a bit like a rodeo, hold on tight and enjoy the ride, and always be prepared for a fall.
You've got a good work ethic Adam. It might seem like coincidence you had a friend to inspire the Raw Room but it's funny how the more honestly you work, the more these kinds of coincidences occur in life. Kudos.
I should comment more on your videos Adam as they are consistently fantastic and are such a generous resource. But this one, even by your high standards is in another league, VERY poignant even beyond the boundaries of photography and provides much food for thought. I'm with another comment here and believe you could speak wider to business in general, you have great communication skills and connect easily with your audience. Thank you for another great video!
Excellent video with some great advice in there. Having built and sold a business previously I can fully relate to a lot of the things you said. As the saying goes, honesty is the best policy.
Thank you for all that. I subscribe to a large number of UA-cam photography channels and quite naturally I am drawn to some more than others. While content, expertise and relevance to my particular photographic interest are extremely important, I find increasing it is the connection that I feel for the UA-cam artist that motivates my interest. In a way, I think I am drawn to those who I feel could be real life friends were we not separated by geography. Your honest, generous style places you firmly in that group with “preferred” status. Thanks so much and best of luck Adam.
A good, honest video. Running a business is hard. I haven't been employed for perhaps 20-22 years and am probably unemployable now. I have just closed my last business of 14 years and am looking to make photography and videography into an income stream for the future. It's a bit daunting. But, I fully recognise EVERY point you made in this video, Adam. Not only do I recognise them, I agree. One of the BIG problems for people in creative areas is also Imposter Syndrome. Sometimes, some of the best creatives are those who never realise just how good they actually are and that can hold them back. But, there's a fine line between (maybe) being an imposter and being a conceited fool. We all need others to affirm our work; to offer critique in a constructive way so that we can review, retry and improve and it is for this very reason that I am considering Raw Room. I have a long way to go before I get any significant money from this new venture but I am not green to photography having been an avid semi-pro since the age of 18 or so. But only semi - I only ever shot for specific reasons before - perhaps it was a magazine article I was writing or a web site I was making; always something with a purpose. Now, it's just Landscapes and your suggestion that we shoot purely to print is a great one that I will be running with next. Thank you.
Great content Adam, as another Gov’t service worker looking to pursue my photographic dreams it’s priceless to hear your experience. Looking forward to year four!
Nice video man. I started my biz partime in 2017. In 2019 fulltime as that was a great year. 2020 is rough and yes lots of projects fell through. Still by switching to teaching and walks and moving some timetables still made 25-30% more than 2019. Good tips man. Ill go check out your website.
Hi Adam. A really good, down to earth video. An acquaintance of mine who was a serial entrepreneur once said that to survive and thrive one (or one's household) has to have at least three income streams. So if one takes a hit things are OK and even if the second is reduced the basics are still covered. And not relying on everyone to be straight and pay on time or even at all is a good move. I'd actually rate this as one of your best and whilst it might not be what you want to do, there is a market out there for the sort of advice and it might form another income stream.
Thank you for introspective, like many I have always thought about taking the leap, your experiences has given me inspiration to start planning to lead some wildlife/landscape workshops through the Everglades in South Florida
Having run my own business for some 24 years, that I started during the recession of the 80’s I concur, it’s tough gaining the momentum but man is it fulfilling when you get it right. I too raised a family through my business career and some months we simply couldn’t pay bills. Peaks and Troughs in business are for the most part ‘normal’, its riding and more importantly ‘managing’ those business transitions that take great skill, luck plays no part. I closed my business 7 years ago now and work for a corporate. I made a decision to take a new career path because at that point in my life I had stopped enjoying running my own business and I always say, when you stop enjoying doing something, move on. I’m still involved in an industry that I love which is a real bonus. My ‘employed’ life with the company that I work for now started as a kitchen designer, I worked my way through various elements of the business and I’m now a store manager. This was no mistake, I planned my future with the company and that is the most important aspect, planning. Stay true to yourself at all times, it really is that simple.
Great video, thanks. I found this at just the right time in my life. I'm soon to retire (Jan 2022) from the police after 27 years and I'm setting up online courses in art, some of which will include elements of photography. Also painting days, painting holidays etc etc. I totally agree with the need to diversify and not have all your eggs in one basket. There is so much opportunity with passive income. Its a huge leap in to a brave new world for me. Looking backwards, I realise just how much the old bill have taught me about people, risk and confidence in yourself. Really happy that things worked out for you. I have to ask as well, are you related to the guy that does the 'Esysman Superyacht channel'. Your mannerisms and accents are similar and there is more than a passing resemblance as well!
Thank you for sharing your experiences. This video covered points very few people share out with others. Really appreciate the effort in going the distance in creating your videos. Thanks again. 🙏
I started out with a studio for family portraits, then i did weddings and event, then i decided to stop doing a business and just travel and do history photography. Then the pandemic hit and now i only can do local history photography on the weekend.
Very helpful Adam, always enjoy your videos..... my dream is to have my own photography business, I’m in the perfect spot at the foot of The Dales & 1hr from The Lakes....just need to take that step.....👍🏻 cheers!
I have no interest in becoming a pro, but I enjoyed watching your take on it Adam. I know from my own business that some clients are good to work with and others extract the urine. I just walk away from those who are no prepared to pay my rate. I am lucky in that my paid work is 'extra' income and I can afford to walk away if I am not happy. I do feel for those who have to do projects they would rather not, just to keep beans in h cupboard. That applies to anyone who is self-employed, not just photographers. You should get lots or workshop bookings once the madness settles, you have a compelling offering. Stay safe and healthy!
A very poignant message for me at the moment. Went out with a plan and guns blazing at the beginning of the year, only to have COVID and worsening mental health issues road blocking me. Very much enjoyed this video Adam, and it raised my spirits by helping to see part of the way forward.
Great advice Adam, information that spans many small businesses, I could compare this to my commercial construction company as well! Very valuable knowledge you share as always!👏🏻😁
A very insightful and open discussion Adam and would be good for anyone starting out in business to watch this. Diversity I think is the key as that has been evident during the pandemic when you see how many businesses including pro photographers have been able to adapt their business but sadly some have not based on the niche they are in.
Hi man, When I saw the headline I thought 💭 ohh 😮 No, another one of those vides trying to tell people show to be a “pro” I wasn’t a subscriber, but I said, let see what he has to say. I was impressed with what you said as I can relate to it in many ways, you were very articulated and gave tips that will not only work in photography but in business in general when one is trying to make on their own. I gave you a like and I subscribed because I like to support hard working honest people. Good luck my friend.
im going to collage for film and photography my main thing is going to be photography and film on the side but after school i think ill start by working for someone before i do my own thing
Thank you for the great video! When you have your own website, what are your options for selling prints? For example with Squarespace, can you link it to a preferred print on demand lab, or do you have to print yourself? Thanks!
Thanks, you are very brave to leave a public sector job, I did 30 years as a heddlu in Cardiff, keen photographer since a boy, but would not have the bottle to do what you have. , wish you the best.
Once again inspirational wise words ( I bet you were a real good Police officer) Good on yer Adam you've worked really hard to get to where you are, here's to a great future for you. One day I will meet you on a workshop - cheers
Excellent video, explaining the pitfalls and the advice to overcome them. Thank you. I've found social media has really helped with orders. I have a following of almost 30,000 on Facebook which generates lots of interest. I regularly get thousands of likes for each image posted, which I limit to 2-3 a day. I also have a decent active following of 10k on Twitter too, which generates more gigs than orders.
I'd love to start a photography business, ironically as something to help take me towards retirement. I think the most difficult thing I've found is the risk. For instance, do you get liability insurance for your first paying portrait shoots? Do you wing it a little first. I'd want to get established part time before I consider quitting my job. Oddly I've always enjoyed training and helping people, it's part of my current job. Covid certainly has made things harder, but I'm more determined than ever. Just need to get my head round the insurance thing!
I too really respect your honesty and candour, especially as an ex policeman (I've worked with a few in the past and let's say they lack your level of humanity - sorry to be cinical). Huge respect for your career move, especially with two children. The F4 team say they don't make a living from photography, and they clearly put a huge amount of effort into something the love. Not everyone can be Peter Lik or similar. Honesty and integrity will prevail.
Two people on a day course at £350 each suddenly change the profit margin significantly. And with two clients I'd argue you'd still be giving them the same level of service as you would with one. (Plus you can still handle the logistics easily) I'd be offering two options. One on one £900. Small group £350. Then let your clients choose the best option. Try it on your website for a month or two. You'll soon know if the model works or not.
The issue I have is I'm a photographer, not a videograopher and this is an issue because nowadays people expect photographers to be a master of stills, video and using a drone and as a Macro shooter I struggle to see how I could go semi pro or even pro. But I do not want to change my style because in doing that I'm changing my identity as a photographer. Also with the influx of AI images on social media I feel to see how my honest, subtle edited images can even compete with that. Some images which have clearly been edit using luminar for example will get 1000s of views but honest photography and subtle editing styles get overlooked in favour of high contrast, high saturated images. Its disheartening.
It is mate. However making great photographs is only a small portion of what is required to be a pro so there's still opportunities out there if you want it.
Hello mate, another great video. 👍🏻 I have a really interesting question and would be very intrigued to hear your opinion on. As you have spent 14 years in the police and then changed to become a photographer you would be the beat person to ask this question. You may have seen the videos where people record police stations from a public space and it’s interesting to see the police response. My question to you is: what is your opinion on the legality of recording in public and do you think the police are taking away citizens rights?
In the UK there is no criminal law about filming anything in public. I wouldn't want this to change. When I was a cop though, if you were filming outside my police station I would be coming over to have a conversation with you and ask what you're doing. No powers used.....just asking questions. If the person is being weird or shady then I ask more questions because sadly some people are looking to do harm to police officers and property. I'm still not using any powers though.....just chatting. Usually I just continued being ultra friendly and curious and eventually the person would get bored of me and walk away. These days, giving them a taste of their own medicine and turning on the body worn camera will usually get rid of people pretty quickly. The exact same scenario exists with people filming on the street through the fence of a school as kids are in the playground. People often have a different opinion about that. It's also the same someone standing outside your house pointing a camera in your window. Do we want laws against these activities? Personally I don't think so because these types of laws creep and restrict more freedoms over time. Do we want people filming kids outside a school or your house? Of course not, it is ethically wrong but we have the Common Sense Act we can apply to that with diplomatic policing and a community policing itself.
Thanks so much for taking the time to reply. If I am honest I did not expect you to respond! I think your opinion on the subject is spot on and it’s exactly the same as mine. I am not sure if you have seen any of the channels that audit police stations but they are very interesting and if you get a spare min you should check them out. There channels are growing in popularity and getting a lot of attention. My problem with them is that there approach is overly aggressive and makes the officers react the way they do. They antagonise the officers which would obviously make the officer react in a more aggressive way. If anything the auditors are potentially going to push the government to restricting photography liberties! Like I said, thanks for your insight and it might make an interesting video with you talking about it. Especially as you have seen it from both sides and I truly believe you would be able to give the most balance opinion on it. Keep up the great work dude 👍🏻
![How to be a professional photographer [7 Steps to maximize your chances of success]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/V-E2l5yDyfA/mqdefault.jpg)
Thank you for always wearing your heart on your sleeve so to speak. Your honestly and candor is always appreciated and on point. Honest truths can be harder to accept but carry more value. Thank you
Thanks Richard. Can’t be bothered hiding anything so just put it all out there.
Congratulations on what you have achieved. Having worked in a secure position for 40 years I am aware of your courage in doing what you have. All the best and I hope things look up soon.
A very good video Adam. Photography for me was a second career having built up a business in another sector and sold it on. Photography was a passion and the logical step was to turn it into a career so i attended training courses designed to help me start my new business. I quickly realised that the business knowledge in the sector was lacking and training was on the sexy stuff - the photography and the sales process. Risk was never really discussed and the attendees were told what they wanted to hear rather than what they needed to know. Most people seem to have a romantic idea of what will be involved and no-one mentioned the most important thing that anyone needs to do and that is to be disciplined. Work outside of your comfort zones and that will set you apart from so many people.
I thought about going professional and was ready to take the leap when my wife was diagnosed with cancer and the doctors told me how much time I would need to care for her during chemotherapy. My plans were put on hold. That was 5 years ago and after 2 other cancer diagnoses in that time and her 3 major operations I hadn't given up on the idea. She's just had another diagnosis and will need 6 months of chemotherapy and possibly immunotherapy afterwards and we'll need to shield against Covid-19 and I'll again need to provide care during chemo, I guess my plans won't come to fruition. I'm fortunate that I can work from home and and adapt my work hours to fit around caring commitments and I can't give up this stability at present. I won't be able to leave the house very often because of the need to shield and photography will be off the agenda for a while.
This is another good, honest video Adam and I wish you very success with your business and I enjoy your video content, but not as much as viewing your excellent images.
Hope your wife's health improves soon. Life can change in a moment; illness, accident, pandemic, redundancy and more. It's how we deal with these tragedies that makes us caring humans.
Thank you Andrew, my wife is into the first month of 6 months of chemo and hopefully afterwards I can re-assess my decisions. Thanks for reaching out, its much appreciated.
Thank you for your candid and down to earth video. Glad you hung in there and wish you all the success. Being in business on your own can be incredibly rewarding and also terrifying especially in years like this. Adaptability and perseverance, you have them both.
Hello Adam I want to say thank you for being real with your photography and how things really work in this industry. I have been fallowing your channel for a long time and its one channel that has helped me grow as a person and a photographer. Thank you so much for producing such great work. I look forward to your next video.
I'm certain you will continue in your success. You have everything you need: technical knowledge, relatability, good business sense, great communication skills, and beautiful photographs. I appreciate your candor and enjoy your videos. Keep 'em coming. Thanks.
Hi Adam, as a Self Employed Loudspeaker Design Engineer Consultant myself I found your Video most refreshing, heartfelt and honest. Everything you have outlined applies to being a one man band. Very good advice across the board. Like Photography, the Leisure Industry and also the Professional Recording Studios have been severely hit by the Pandemic so diversifying is exactly the key to survival in business. I have now moved into world of high end bespoke loudspeaker systems for personal rather than comercial customers.Just to say that the reason that I subscribe to your channel is because I can see that you are the real deal. This video has made that very clear. I hope things continue to grow for you. In he new year I hope to get on one of your in the field courses for my 6oth birthday all being well. Cheers Ian ( Leicester, UK ).
An honest account of the realities, thank you for being so open and sharing your experiences. It’s nice to understand where you came from and how you made the transition into your photography career. Thanks for the content
I'm love photography and people are telling me I'm good enough to go pro...people are always offering me money for prints. If it becomes my job, my survival I will be pressured and I will no longer enjoy it. I work stuck indoors all week and get out on the weekends only. Fair play to anyone who puts themselves through this pressure. If I don't get a good shot on a particular weekend hey ho, I've had a good walk, good exercise and then it's back to work Monday morning for guaranteed income but the downside is stuck indoors. I can't make that transition so well done and good luck. All I can say is have a back up plan. 2021, no vaccine no border pass, no border pass no pictures. I can't take a needle to take a picture. Have options in reserve. Tough times ahead, very tough.
Are you on drug? All that jibrish
@@dayeah765caoni3 Maybe if you educated yourself it might make more sense. "Gibberish" is how its spelt mate.
@@dayeah765caoni3 Your two short sentences, hardly strung together, are GIBBERISH (in capitals, so you know how it's spelt). Is your attention span so limited that you can't get through an intelligent observation?
Pretty good video. I ran my own successful masonry business for over 10 years and everything you say is true about running a business. In our case the artistic aspect was pretty rare but very meaningful with the right client. I was into photography at a young age and well into my 20's with my first camera being a Yashica twin lens reflex and I left the hobby with a Nikon F2 and Leica M2. I'm now starting again with the aim of part time. Knowing the ropes of business, I hope to have some success. And thank you for all the reminders of the ups and downs of all aspects of being a business owner.
I'm kind of in the same boat you are/were. I've been a police officer for 32 years and a part time outdoor writer/photographer for more than 20. I'm getting ready to retire from my police department and start the photography thing full time. It's always been my passion and you have inspired me greatly! Thank you Adam!
You're a great person and a great photographer too. This are hard times (covid times) and the whole world is proceeding like an old car in an uncertain way where the true value of the work is not appreciated. Often in my life I had to face two jobs because what I had chosen for ability and passion was not enough to live with dignity and yes, being a freelancer is a hard battle that often leads you to suffer but also brings beautiful moments of freedom and happiness. A big hug and thank you !
Compelling watching and listening. You have always worn your heart on your sleeve and this is certainly no different. You can hear your struggle and, in that, your honesty and drive for improvement have kept you moving forward. Keep the faith. And for you confidence your are one of the more interesting photography watches on UT.
Thank you Adam for another great video. Yes, I get that its about the business aspect of being a photographer, but for me it was exactly what I needed to hear given that I'm on the cusp of making that leap. Really appreciate your honesty and straight forward candor. You also struck a chord in mentioning your previous work with the UK police. I personally work for the ambulance service in NZ, so in some ways, with you coming from the police service, made it that much more personal for me. Thank you once again
Excellent honest video. Interesting to hear the modern take on taking the plunge. I once took the plunge before the days of UA-cam when I was young and lacked discipline. I eventually gave it all up, but to this day I still crave being able to do it all 24/7.
Thank you for your honesty!
Very transparent and authentic. Thank you for sharing your story.
Thanks for your honesty and insight. I'm thinking of transitioning to professional photography and your video has touched many bases which I've already considered...and some I haven't. Making the change as you did, with dependents was very brave and I'm glad its paid off. You have a great channel and I wish you success in the future.
Happy holidays. Have a great Christmas and thanks for all the great content. Best of luck going forward
While I've no intention of going professional - I just want to continuously improve my landscape photography - I found this very interesting . I was one of your earliest followers on here ( but by no means the first) and I've often commented on your invariably stimulating videos and images. I do that less often lately, as I now watch UA-cam on my smart TV, which doesn't have the comment facility. Nonetheless I watch all of your videos. Fwiw, I'd say your crucial quality is the sense you project that you are a guy one wants to spend time with, if only on here. Your photography is excellent, but many excellent photographers are on UA-cam . You stand out as a humane, balanced and reflective artist. I wish you well in all you do.
Ah thanks. I feel the same about your comments.
Experience is almost always the best teacher and the best teachers always teach from their experience! Thanks for sharing yours with us, most appreciated and as always, most enjoyed.
i am very glad you share this feelings and over all that your self confidence got stronger is not easy is a hard and strong pad , and yes there are many people who are just full of crab and will tell you you are not good enough and they will love to put you down because they believe the best way to get to the top is taking you out of the way , we all know ignorance cames in all sizes and colours please dont you dare to stop been who you are and been positive you are a great artist and a big inspiration keep it strong buddy you are the architect of your own future .my big respect .
Thank you for taking the time to put together such an informative video. This is excellent advice for literally any start up or small business and is delivered in a clear and no nonsense manner. I wish you all the very best.
I to spent 22 years in the Army and then started my own garage business and as you say it's hard. I think unless you have a pension or money to last/ invest for 3/5 years then chances are you won't make it. You have to have time to build up your clients. This has to be done slowly or you risk working for Arse wipes. I found that word of mouth was by far the best advertisement. One good good job/happy customer will get you at least five more. But if I were you I would be putting 50% of your efforts into inspiration talking . Your a natural. I think that is what sets your videos apart from the rest. Photographers or not, anyone will take inspiration from your videos. Keep up the good work.
Thanks Adam, you are always my inspiration.
Thanks mate. Appreciate it.
Thank you Adam, I really appreciate you putting this video together, it's super helpful and I enjoyed watching. I hope you do manage to do another instalment re: Social Media etc. This would be really helpful too. Thanks again.
Awesome video and very encouraging! You are a standup guy and a fantastic photographer. Thanks for sharing this.
Excellent advice Adam i have run my own landscaping business for 25 years and everything you mention applies to any self start business
This was utterly brilliant, Adam. I've been a working pro for 35 years, most recently on a 20-year salaried job (pretty sweet). Then came Covid, and I am back freelancing again. You have no idea how much this encouraged me!
Thanks Adam for sharing your story do honestly and with such openness. I really hope that your business will survive through this pandemic and then on the other side my it it flourish. Thank you for your excellent work.
What a great video, sage advice, and shows the drive and enthusiasm which got you to where you are today, Running your own business is a bit like a rodeo, hold on tight and enjoy the ride, and always be prepared for a fall.
You've got a good work ethic Adam. It might seem like coincidence you had a friend to inspire the Raw Room but it's funny how the more honestly you work, the more these kinds of coincidences occur in life. Kudos.
Yup. Think you nailed it there Adam. A brave video to make and spot on.
I find your videos very inspirational. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks Bob. Much appreciated.
Superbly honest video and inspiring to many I’m sure. Thank you for sharing.
Glad to see you have overcome the multitude of difficulties in succeeding in following a dream ... you deserve it ... and all the best for the future.
Thank you for the genuineness on display here Adam, great informative video
I should comment more on your videos Adam as they are consistently fantastic and are such a generous resource. But this one, even by your high standards is in another league, VERY poignant even beyond the boundaries of photography and provides much food for thought. I'm with another comment here and believe you could speak wider to business in general, you have great communication skills and connect easily with your audience.
Thank you for another great video!
Fantastic video! Keep up your good work and determination
This is excellent! Concise and accurate for most start ups and small businesses
Excellent video with some great advice in there. Having built and sold a business previously I can fully relate to a lot of the things you said. As the saying goes, honesty is the best policy.
One of the best videos on this topic, thanks for sharing!!!
Thank you for all that. I subscribe to a large number of UA-cam photography channels and quite naturally I am drawn to some more than others. While content, expertise and relevance to my particular photographic interest are extremely important, I find increasing it is the connection that I feel for the UA-cam artist that motivates my interest. In a way, I think I am drawn to those who I feel could be real life friends were we not separated by geography. Your honest, generous style places you firmly in that group with “preferred” status. Thanks so much and best of luck Adam.
I’m humbled. Thank you.
A good, honest video. Running a business is hard. I haven't been employed for perhaps 20-22 years and am probably unemployable now. I have just closed my last business of 14 years and am looking to make photography and videography into an income stream for the future. It's a bit daunting. But, I fully recognise EVERY point you made in this video, Adam. Not only do I recognise them, I agree.
One of the BIG problems for people in creative areas is also Imposter Syndrome. Sometimes, some of the best creatives are those who never realise just how good they actually are and that can hold them back. But, there's a fine line between (maybe) being an imposter and being a conceited fool. We all need others to affirm our work; to offer critique in a constructive way so that we can review, retry and improve and it is for this very reason that I am considering Raw Room.
I have a long way to go before I get any significant money from this new venture but I am not green to photography having been an avid semi-pro since the age of 18 or so. But only semi - I only ever shot for specific reasons before - perhaps it was a magazine article I was writing or a web site I was making; always something with a purpose. Now, it's just Landscapes and your suggestion that we shoot purely to print is a great one that I will be running with next.
Thank you.
What a great video! Many thanks for such an informative, frank and honest piece of work.
Great content Adam, as another Gov’t service worker looking to pursue my photographic dreams it’s priceless to hear your experience. Looking forward to year four!
your passion is inspiring, Thank You!!
Nice video man. I started my biz partime in 2017. In 2019 fulltime as that was a great year. 2020 is rough and yes lots of projects fell through. Still by switching to teaching and walks and moving some timetables still made 25-30% more than 2019. Good tips man. Ill go check out your website.
Wonderful video. Thanks!
Great video Adam, Thanks for sharing.....
Absolutely brilliant very well put over and easy to understand 👌👌👌
Adam, well said. All so much true .....
Hi Adam. A really good, down to earth video. An acquaintance of mine who was a serial entrepreneur once said that to survive and thrive one (or one's household) has to have at least three income streams. So if one takes a hit things are OK and even if the second is reduced the basics are still covered. And not relying on everyone to be straight and pay on time or even at all is a good move. I'd actually rate this as one of your best and whilst it might not be what you want to do, there is a market out there for the sort of advice and it might form another income stream.
Thank you for sharing so much. You’ve opened up in an area a lot of people wouldn’t. Very thought provoking.
I like your mindset. Thanks for sharing, and of course the pictures are great too!
Really useful as I look at my five-year plan to take early retirement and this step. Thanks.
I appreciate your honesty, ignore the haters! ;)
Thank you for introspective, like many I have always thought about taking the leap, your experiences has given me inspiration to start planning to lead some wildlife/landscape workshops through the Everglades in South Florida
Thanks Adam! I am indeed wanting to start a small business with photography and hopefully grow into a full time job.
Having run my own business for some 24 years, that I started during the recession of the 80’s I concur, it’s tough gaining the momentum but man is it fulfilling when you get it right. I too raised a family through my business career and some months we simply couldn’t pay bills. Peaks and Troughs in business are for the most part ‘normal’, its riding and more importantly ‘managing’ those business transitions that take great skill, luck plays no part.
I closed my business 7 years ago now and work for a corporate. I made a decision to take a new career path because at that point in my life I had stopped enjoying running my own business and I always say, when you stop enjoying doing something, move on. I’m still involved in an industry that I love which is a real bonus. My ‘employed’ life with the company that I work for now started as a kitchen designer, I worked my way through various elements of the business and I’m now a store manager. This was no mistake, I planned my future with the company and that is the most important aspect, planning.
Stay true to yourself at all times, it really is that simple.
Great vlog, Adam - very interesting watch and refreshing to hear someone tell it how it is.
Great video, thanks. I found this at just the right time in my life. I'm soon to retire (Jan 2022) from the police after 27 years and I'm setting up online courses in art, some of which will include elements of photography. Also painting days, painting holidays etc etc. I totally agree with the need to diversify and not have all your eggs in one basket. There is so much opportunity with passive income. Its a huge leap in to a brave new world for me. Looking backwards, I realise just how much the old bill have taught me about people, risk and confidence in yourself. Really happy that things worked out for you.
I have to ask as well, are you related to the guy that does the 'Esysman Superyacht channel'. Your mannerisms and accents are similar and there is more than a passing resemblance as well!
I've just looked and I reckon i'm probably 10 years younger than him and he's a scouser!!
Well told and explained Adam. You put out a lot of very good content, keep it up in 2021
Thanks Andrew. Very kind.
Thank you for sharing your experiences. This video covered points very few people share out with others. Really appreciate the effort in going the distance in creating your videos. Thanks again. 🙏
I started out with a studio for family portraits, then i did weddings and event, then i decided to stop doing a business and just travel and do history photography. Then the pandemic hit and now i only can do local history photography on the weekend.
Honest candor, very much appreciated, many thanks!
Very helpful Adam, always enjoy your videos..... my dream is to have my own photography business, I’m in the perfect spot at the foot of The Dales & 1hr from The Lakes....just need to take that step.....👍🏻 cheers!
Good work and well said, very inspiring.
I have no interest in becoming a pro, but I enjoyed watching your take on it Adam. I know from my own business that some clients are good to work with and others extract the urine. I just walk away from those who are no prepared to pay my rate. I am lucky in that my paid work is 'extra' income and I can afford to walk away if I am not happy. I do feel for those who have to do projects they would rather not, just to keep beans in h cupboard. That applies to anyone who is self-employed, not just photographers. You should get lots or workshop bookings once the madness settles, you have a compelling offering. Stay safe and healthy!
Thank you so much for for your openness. Your a brave man! ✌️👍😉
A very poignant message for me at the moment. Went out with a plan and guns blazing at the beginning of the year, only to have COVID and worsening mental health issues road blocking me.
Very much enjoyed this video Adam, and it raised my spirits by helping to see part of the way forward.
Very enlightening. So you do weddings, product, and portraiture etc to diversify your business, but your heart is in landscape photography 👍
Professional or not, Well worth a listen.
Thanks for sharing again Adam.
Stay safe.
Thanks John. Means a lot.
Some good advice thank you. I would be interested in what you do for social media.
Great advice Adam, information that spans many small businesses, I could compare this to my commercial construction company as well! Very valuable knowledge you share as always!👏🏻😁
A very insightful and open discussion Adam and would be good for anyone starting out in business to watch this. Diversity I think is the key as that has been evident during the pandemic when you see how many businesses including pro photographers have been able to adapt their business but sadly some have not based on the niche they are in.
Wow, that’s very moving Adam. Keep up the good work!
Hi man,
When I saw the headline I thought 💭 ohh 😮 No, another one of those vides trying to tell people show to be a “pro”
I wasn’t a subscriber, but I said, let see what he has to say.
I was impressed with what you said as I can relate to it in many ways, you were very articulated and gave tips that will not only work in photography but in business in general when one is trying to make on their own.
I gave you a like and I subscribed because I like to support hard working honest people.
Good luck my friend.
One of the most interesting videos I've seen in a while. Ever thought of diversifying into business mentoring?
Excellent educational video. Stay safe Adam.
Thanks buddy. Always good to hear from you.
Always enjoy your vids - though I wish the podcast you were in was still going on :/
im going to collage for film and photography my main thing is going to be photography and film on the side but after school i think ill start by working for someone before i do my own thing
Thank you for the great video! When you have your own website, what are your options for selling prints? For example with Squarespace, can you link it to a preferred print on demand lab, or do you have to print yourself? Thanks!
thank you.
Thanks, you are very brave to leave a public sector job, I did 30 years as a heddlu in Cardiff, keen photographer since a boy, but would not have the bottle to do what you have. , wish you the best.
What you say rings true in so many fields, not just photography. First man life coaching would do well I think.
A great insight to the hard work you put in Adam 👍
Thanks. Much appreciated
Once again inspirational wise words ( I bet you were a real good Police officer) Good on yer Adam you've worked really hard to get to where you are, here's to a great future for you. One day I will meet you on a workshop - cheers
Keep up the good work.
Excellent video, explaining the pitfalls and the advice to overcome them. Thank you. I've found social media has really helped with orders. I have a following of almost 30,000 on Facebook which generates lots of interest. I regularly get thousands of likes for each image posted, which I limit to 2-3 a day. I also have a decent active following of 10k on Twitter too, which generates more gigs than orders.
Good video me friend... good message!
Thanks. Very much appreciated.
I'd love to start a photography business, ironically as something to help take me towards retirement.
I think the most difficult thing I've found is the risk.
For instance, do you get liability insurance for your first paying portrait shoots? Do you wing it a little first.
I'd want to get established part time before I consider quitting my job.
Oddly I've always enjoyed training and helping people, it's part of my current job. Covid certainly has made things harder, but I'm more determined than ever. Just need to get my head round the insurance thing!
I too really respect your honesty and candour, especially as an ex policeman (I've worked with a few in the past and let's say they lack your level of humanity - sorry to be cinical). Huge respect for your career move, especially with two children. The F4 team say they don't make a living from photography, and they clearly put a huge amount of effort into something the love. Not everyone can be Peter Lik or similar. Honesty and integrity will prevail.
Yeah....it’s not cynical when it’s just the truth. There are more good ones though than bad.
Thanks for sharing your story Adam, always enjoy your videos! Regards from a happy hobby photographer in Sweden :-)
Two people on a day course at £350 each suddenly change the profit margin significantly. And with two clients I'd argue you'd still be giving them the same level of service as you would with one. (Plus you can still handle the logistics easily) I'd be offering two options. One on one £900. Small group £350. Then let your clients choose the best option. Try it on your website for a month or two. You'll soon know if the model works or not.
The issue I have is I'm a photographer, not a videograopher and this is an issue because nowadays people expect photographers to be a master of stills, video and using a drone and as a Macro shooter I struggle to see how I could go semi pro or even pro. But I do not want to change my style because in doing that I'm changing my identity as a photographer. Also with the influx of AI images on social media I feel to see how my honest, subtle edited images can even compete with that. Some images which have clearly been edit using luminar for example will get 1000s of views but honest photography and subtle editing styles get overlooked in favour of high contrast, high saturated images. Its disheartening.
It is mate. However making great photographs is only a small portion of what is required to be a pro so there's still opportunities out there if you want it.
Important, reflective essay. It is hopeful.
Hello mate, another great video. 👍🏻
I have a really interesting question and would be very intrigued to hear your opinion on. As you have spent 14 years in the police and then changed to become a photographer you would be the beat person to ask this question.
You may have seen the videos where people record police stations from a public space and it’s interesting to see the police response. My question to you is: what is your opinion on the legality of recording in public and do you think the police are taking away citizens rights?
In the UK there is no criminal law about filming anything in public. I wouldn't want this to change. When I was a cop though, if you were filming outside my police station I would be coming over to have a conversation with you and ask what you're doing. No powers used.....just asking questions. If the person is being weird or shady then I ask more questions because sadly some people are looking to do harm to police officers and property. I'm still not using any powers though.....just chatting. Usually I just continued being ultra friendly and curious and eventually the person would get bored of me and walk away. These days, giving them a taste of their own medicine and turning on the body worn camera will usually get rid of people pretty quickly.
The exact same scenario exists with people filming on the street through the fence of a school as kids are in the playground. People often have a different opinion about that. It's also the same someone standing outside your house pointing a camera in your window.
Do we want laws against these activities? Personally I don't think so because these types of laws creep and restrict more freedoms over time. Do we want people filming kids outside a school or your house? Of course not, it is ethically wrong but we have the Common Sense Act we can apply to that with diplomatic policing and a community policing itself.
Thanks so much for taking the time to reply. If I am honest I did not expect you to respond!
I think your opinion on the subject is spot on and it’s exactly the same as mine. I am not sure if you have seen any of the channels that audit police stations but they are very interesting and if you get a spare min you should check them out.
There channels are growing in popularity and getting a lot of attention. My problem with them is that there approach is overly aggressive and makes the officers react the way they do. They antagonise the officers which would obviously make the officer react in a more aggressive way. If anything the auditors are potentially going to push the government to restricting photography liberties!
Like I said, thanks for your insight and it might make an interesting video with you talking about it. Especially as you have seen it from both sides and I truly believe you would be able to give the most balance opinion on it.
Keep up the great work dude 👍🏻
Honest and sincere presentation. I always manage to take something useful away from your videos. Long may it continue. Thank you