Yes you can make money from photography. Dave Chidley a freelance photographer from Wardsville attended our 3 Feb meeting and he survives on his photography skills.
He didn’t come to tell us how to make money, he came to tell us what to do to take pictures of people, especially strangers. His approach was light, entertaining and thought provoking. The secret to start taking people photographs is to “get to know them first.” Introduce yourself and then ask questions to show interest in your subject. Dave explained that he talks to the people to learn about them and let them know about himself. You have to be open and honest, sensitive to their needs. Once you have taken those steps it is amazing how well a photographic shoot can go. The effort you take shows them they are important and special in some way. The photography skills are up to you but always be ready and have your camera ready.
Dave also talked about an organization worth investigating with many examples of people in emotional situations. Photo Sensitive Connections has many examples of people photography. Go to images and click oh a word printed on the picture. Be prepared for some emotional stories. Those pictures are a means for family to remember and cherish their loved ones. For those who do not photograph people, maybe you should reconsider.
ON A DIFFERENT NOTE.
Hind site is 20/20. I thought I would take my camera that night but then left it at home. We had a surprise presenter. Ruth Doya Murray, a member, presented her slide show of wild turkeys. The way she presented it was definitely worth a photograph. The presentation was announced and Ruth walked to the front camouflaged as a turkey. You had to see it to believe it. The membership had tears of laughter from her introduction. The slide show was excellent; pictures of the birds covering four seasons. The picture at right is one from the last news letter where Ruth won 2nd place.
