So, you've been sharpening your photography skills for a while now and are ready to take the leap into the big leagues of professional photography. That's awesome! You've probably spent time learning about all the gear, shadowing some big names in the industry, and maybe even sweating it out as an intern or assistant with established photographers in Sydney. Now, you're itching to set up your own professional portrait photography business.

We get that you've explored various types of portrait photography—headshots, bridal, senior, outdoor—and you've got a good handle on capturing those perfect moments. But now, you're here with one burning question: "How do I become a professional portrait photographer?" Well, let's dive right in and get you some answers!

What Is Portrait Photography?

According to Wikipedia, portrait photography means capturing a person's or group's essence and personality using cool lighting, backgrounds, and poses.

Fun fact: it's been around since the 19th century when people got a bit tired of sitting still for hours just to get a painting done.

What Is It Like To Be A Portrait Photographer?

Being a portrait photographer is like being a visual storyteller. You capture the special moments and personalities of people in various life stages and events. From weddings to graduations, baby showers to family portraits, you're entrusted with preserving precious memories for your clients.

Your role goes beyond just snapping photos; you're also responsible for editing and presenting proofs for clients to choose from.

It's a dynamic blend of creativity, technical skill, and business savvy. You get to immerse yourself in people's lives, creating lasting impressions through your lens while managing the behind-the-scenes aspects of your photography business.

That is all. It's simple, right? But you are here for the answer to your question, “How to become a portrait photographer?”. So, let’s go!

How To Be A Professional Portrait Photographer In Sydney?

1. Become Familiar With Technicalities

If you're serious about getting into professional portrait photography, you'll want to get comfy with some basic technical stuff. But don't worry, you don't need to be a pro right off the bat. Here's a quick overview of what you should know:

● Spend some time with your camera and get the hang of it. Learn about the exposure triangle - that's just a fancy way of saying understand how exposure works and what your ISO, aperture, and shutter speed settings do.

● Have you ever heard of the rule of thirds or s-curves? They might sound fancy, but they're actually super helpful techniques for making your portraits stand out.

● Whether you love natural light or prefer the studio vibe, knowing about lighting is super important. And don't underestimate the power of flash photography - it can change the game.

● Don't be scared of Lightroom and Photoshop - they're great and not that difficult to learn! You don't have to be a pro at editing, but a basic understanding can take your portraits to the next level.

2. See Things Creatively

Here’s what sets a pro portrait photographer apart from someone taking snapshots. It's all about having an eye for what makes a photo incredible. Here's how you can get there:

● Spend some time admiring the work of awesome portrait photographers. It's like getting a free lesson! Read books or browse online to see what catches your eye. But don't just stick to modern stuff—there's loads to learn from portraitists from back in the day, too, from the late 1800s to the 1970s.

● Practice Makes Perfect! Yup, it's cliché but true. The more time you spend with your camera, the better you'll become. As you go, you'll start to find your tone in portrait photography and discover your unique style.

● Sure, it's cool to know what's hot in photography, but don't lose sight of who you are. Trends might come and go, but your style is only yours. So embrace it and let your personality shine through in your photos!

3. Polish Your People Skills

Taking a portrait isn't just about pressing a button; it's about connecting with the person in front of your camera. Initially, you will have tons of sessions where people start off a bit stiff, but with a little time, they relax and let their personalities shine.

Here's how to make that happen:

● When your subject feels comfortable with you, it shows in the photos. So, focus on building that trust. Be genuine, communicate openly, and show some empathy. It goes a long way!

● You don't need to be a posing expert. A few simple, natural poses can make a big difference. Guide your subjects gently into these poses, and you'll get more authentic and flattering shots.

● Sometimes, things don't go as planned, and that's okay! Stay flexible and adaptable. Being able to handle unexpected challenges reassures your subject and helps you create amazing portraits no matter what.

4. Market Yourself and Keep Growing!

If you have not shared your work online, do it now! Make your Instagram, Facebook or any other social media account to showcase your work and market yourself. It's not just about snapping great photos; you got to know the business side, too. It is not as scary as it sounds! Here's what you need to know:

● Your portfolio acts as your online showcase. Make it outstanding, and you'll naturally draw in the perfect clients.

● Spend time with fellow photographers in Sydney and connect with potential clients. You never know who could open doors for you.

● Understand the value of your work and customise your packages to suit your market. Providing value is essential for retaining clients and encouraging repeat business.

● Satisfied clients return and spread the word about your exceptional skills. Therefore, pay attention to their feedback and strive to excel in every project.

● Selling doesn't need to be intimidating! Whether it's scheduling sessions or providing additional packages, some expertise can make a huge impact.

Do Not Give Up!

In conclusion, becoming a professional portrait photographer isn't going to be a walk in the park. It'll take hard work, consistency, and honing your skills. Keep pushing yourself, network with new people, and showcase your talents. Let the world see what you're capable of! And hey, if you need a photography studio for your portrait photography session in Sydney, don't hesitate to reach out to us. We'd be happy to assist you.

How Can I Become A Professional Portrait Photographer in Sydney?