Start working as a freelancer, assistant, or digital tech in NYC?

[hahah1]

I recently graduated but Im not able to get any kind of photography jobs for 4 months. Im interesting in fashion/portrait photography that I want to become a professional photographer in that field. I already tried internship without payments.

I feel that I need to start working so I can get pay in order to live since I didnt get pay for works. I know that Im still having lack of skills and knowledge for photography but at least I have 5 years of experience in photography as a student especially I got Phase One Certified Professional ceritifcation. Im very technical in camera gears, computers, and light equipments.

I kept looking for jobs or works from Indeed, craigslist, and more for 4 months but I got nothing so far. Of course, there were few jobs that Im qualified but I didnt get their responds. Im trying to learn more about Adobe softwares and other programs but at least I need to get a job so that I can afford Adobe CC, Capture One Pro, and other subcribtion based softwares.

How can I find a job or work to start my career as a photographer in NYC? Are there any sources to find photographers who need an assistant, digital tech, or intern?

 

[MindInRewind]

I recently graduated but Im not able to get any kind of photography jobs for 4 months. Im interesting in fashion/portrait photography that I want to become a professional photographer in that field. I already tried internship without payments.

First and second, you picked the toughest industry to work in and the toughest city to do it in. Every photographer and their sister wants to be a fashion photographer in NYC. So, talking about how you haven't found work in 4 months isn't out of the norm. In fact, odds are against you in finding any work any time soon.

I feel that I need to start working so I can get pay in order to live since I didnt get pay for works. I know that Im still having lack of skills and knowledge for photography but at least I have 5 years of experience in photography as a student especially I got Phase One Certified Professional ceritifcation. Im very technical in camera gears, computers, and light equipments.

Just a hunch, but I'm guessing you're what, 20... 21 years of age? Photography work doesn't come easy. You don't just graduate from school and photography work falls into your lap. You need to work at it, forever. Even when you have steady clients and steady income, you still need to work to improve and grow with current trends in photography, style, marketing etc etc.

I kept looking for jobs or works from Indeed, craigslist, and more for 4 months but I got nothing so far. Of course, there were few jobs that Im qualified but I didnt get their responds. Im trying to learn more about Adobe softwares and other programs but at least I need to get a job so that I can afford Adobe CC, Capture One Pro, and other subcribtion based softwares.

Yes, get a job! Any job!

How can I find a job or work to start my career as a photographer in NYC? Are there any sources to find photographers who need an assistant, digital tech, or intern?

I may not live and work in NYC - I'm from the Canadian "equivalent" of Toronto, but here's my advice; Move (or change professions )! Any other major city will do. Once you get there, start shooting. Lots! Build a good book. While you're shooting, contact photographers in the area letting them know you're a young photographer looking for assistant work or internship (preferably paid). Again, this isn't going to happen over night and its hard, defeating work. You will be told no, you will be told you're not good enough and you will be told other negative things that will just beat the crap out of you mentally. But don't give up. It takes years to become an established photographer - sure, some people get their break early, yes, it does happen. But for the most part it takes years to earn a living with photography.

Perhaps once you're established in a place other than NYC, thats when you move back, taking your clients with you and finding others once you get there.

Just my thoughts.

~MIR

 

[Dan Marchant]

....I have 5 years of experience in photography as a student especially I got Phase One Certified Professional ceritifcation. Im very technical in camera gears, computers, and light equipments.

Are you a good photographer? Do you have a portfolio of fashion shots that show what you are capable of doing?

 

[BAK]

SOFTWARE: if you cannot afford Photoshop so you can learn it, get Photoshop Elements.

And video is going to become more important. Most still photographers cannot edit video, so learn Adobe Premiere Elements, and promote yourself as a video editor for still photographers getting into video.

You can learn a lot about video editing just using the video features of Photoshop Elements. (It works for both video and stills)

Do you have a web site.

WEDDINGS: A lot of modern wedding photographers shoot several hundred to severak thousand of pictures.

Make up a promotion piece explaining how you do basic editing to prepare digital files as proofs that wedding photographers can show to clients for the clients for choosing what to print.

ETHNICs:Is there a big community of people who share your cultural heritage? It might be easier to sell your services there? Do you speak their language? Portraiture would be the most likely product or service.

BAK

 

[Jacques Cornell]

I recently graduated but Im not able to get any kind of photography jobs for 4 months. Im interesting in fashion/portrait photography that I want to become a professional photographer in that field. I already tried internship without payments.

I feel that I need to start working so I can get pay in order to live since I didnt get pay for works. I know that Im still having lack of skills and knowledge for photography but at least I have 5 years of experience in photography as a student especially I got Phase One Certified Professional ceritifcation. Im very technical in camera gears, computers, and light equipments.

I kept looking for jobs or works from Indeed, craigslist, and more for 4 months but I got nothing so far. Of course, there were few jobs that Im qualified but I didnt get their responds. Im trying to learn more about Adobe softwares and other programs but at least I need to get a job so that I can afford Adobe CC, Capture One Pro, and other subcribtion based softwares.

How can I find a job or work to start my career as a photographer in NYC? Are there any sources to find photographers who need an assistant, digital tech, or intern?

You need to make a much better presentation than you've made here. I'm a professional photographer in NYC, and I occasionally hire assistants. You haven't given me any specific reason to hire you. Simply saying "Im very technical in ..." isn't enough. What can you do for me?

Sorry if that's harsh, but you need to start acting like a real professional NOW. I know, because I, too, studied photography in NYC and then struggled to get assisting work.

Highlight your skills and make people want to work with you. Find photographers and send them printed resumés via USPS, then follow up with a phone call the day after the resumé arrives. Customize your pitch to each one. Find out what they do, and explain how your skills are relevant to them.

Also, I'm not sure if you're a native speaker of English, but in any case, proofread your writing and use correct spelling and grammar.

I'm living proof that it can be done, but it sure ain't easy, so you have to be your absolute best in every interaction with anyone who might conceivably be able to help you.

Finally, network with other assistants. Most assisting work in NYC comes via word of mouth.

 

[hahah1]

I recently graduated but Im not able to get any kind of photography jobs for 4 months. Im interesting in fashion/portrait photography that I want to become a professional photographer in that field. I already tried internship without payments.

I feel that I need to start working so I can get pay in order to live since I didnt get pay for works. I know that Im still having lack of skills and knowledge for photography but at least I have 5 years of experience in photography as a student especially I got Phase One Certified Professional ceritifcation. Im very technical in camera gears, computers, and light equipments.

I kept looking for jobs or works from Indeed, craigslist, and more for 4 months but I got nothing so far. Of course, there were few jobs that Im qualified but I didnt get their responds. Im trying to learn more about Adobe softwares and other programs but at least I need to get a job so that I can afford Adobe CC, Capture One Pro, and other subcribtion based softwares.

How can I find a job or work to start my career as a photographer in NYC? Are there any sources to find photographers who need an assistant, digital tech, or intern?

You need to make a much better presentation than you've made here. I'm a professional photographer in NYC, and I occasionally hire assistants. You haven't given me any specific reason to hire you. Simply saying "Im very technical in ..." isn't enough. What can you do for me?

Sorry if that's harsh, but you need to start acting like a real professional NOW. I know, because I, too, studied photography in NYC and then struggled to get assisting work.

Highlight your skills and make people want to work with you. Find photographers and send them printed resumés via USPS, then follow up with a phone call the day after the resumé arrives. Customize your pitch to each one. Find out what they do, and explain how your skills are relevant to them.

Also, I'm not sure if you're a native speaker of English, but in any case, proofread your writing and use correct spelling and grammar.

I'm living proof that it can be done, but it sure ain't easy, so you have to be your absolute best in every interaction with anyone who might conceivably be able to help you.

Finally, network with other assistants. Most assisting work in NYC comes via word of mouth.

Thx for your advice. At this point, Im not sure what to do for my career. To be honest, I can not highlight my skills to present as I just graduated from college to work as a digital tech, assistant, or photographer. I already checked several websites but their requirments are way higher than my skill and knowledge. Any suggestions what I should do?

 

[hahah1]

....I have 5 years of experience in photography as a student especially I got Phase One Certified Professional ceritifcation. Im very technical in camera gears, computers, and light equipments.

Are you a good photographer? Do you have a portfolio of fashion shots that show what you are capable of doing?

I am a good photographer but I dont have a porftolio for fashion pics which is the biggest problem.

 

[Gato Amarillo]

I recently graduated but Im not able to get any kind of photography jobs for 4 months. Im interesting in fashion/portrait photography that I want to become a professional photographer in that field. I already tried internship without payments.

NY is the place to be for that kind of photography, but it's a tough town. Find any kind of work you can related to fashion or photography -- even if it's sweeping floors or running errands. Anything to get a foot in the door. You need to get to know people in the business -- and they need to know you. Make a good impression. Help people out. Act interested.

You need to learn (if you don't already know) how people in the business act, dress and talk. You need to learn to fit in,learn the secret language. Figure out where people hang out and where you can meet people.

How much do you know about fashion? Knowing your subject is just as important as knowing photography.

Find other beginners and team with them for portfolio building. Look for beginner designers, make-up people, models and other photographers and work with them on portfolio projects.

I feel that I need to start working so I can get pay in order to live since I didnt get pay for works. I know that Im still having lack of skills and knowledge for photography but at least I have 5 years of experience in photography as a student especially I got Phase One Certified Professional ceritifcation. Im very technical in camera gears, computers, and light equipments.

Take any job you can get, but preferably one that gets you close to the business and lets you meet people.

Work up a list of specific skills you do have that a photographer will need. More than a few photographers can use an assistant with tech skills. But as I said before, take any job you can find that gets you close to the business -- even if it's bartender or waiter in a place where fashion people hang out.

As someone else said, clean up your presentation -- spellcheck highlighted 4 words in that one paragraph. People will judge you by these things.

I kept looking for jobs or works from Indeed, craigslist, and more for 4 months but I got nothing so far. Of course, there were few jobs that Im qualified but I didnt get their responds. Im trying to learn more about Adobe softwares and other programs but at least I need to get a job so that I can afford Adobe CC, Capture One Pro, and other subcribtion based softwares.

Knock on doors. The kind of job you're looking for will not be on craigslist. Almost all the good jobs are filled by word of mouth. Get to know people in the business.

Develop an "elevator pitch," a three sentence sales pitch to tell people who you are and what you're trying to do. If that catches their interest be ready to keep going with more in depth. Have your portfolio on your phone -- organized and ready to show. Don't make them wade through selfies and pics of your last lunch to see your real photos. Get business cards with your phone, Instagram and website and always have them handy.

How can I find a job or work to start my career as a photographer in NYC? Are there any sources to find photographers who need an assistant, digital tech, or intern?

You say you have been a student and done internships for 5 years, yet you don't have a portfolio? Get on that right away. As I said above, in NY there are tons of other people trying to get started. Team with young designers and models to develop your look and build a portfolio. Get a presence going on social media.

And knock on doors.

Good luck

Gato

 

[robertfel]

Find other beginners and team with them for portfolio building. Look for beginner designers, make-up people, models and other photographers and work with them on portfolio projects.

Take any job you can get, but preferably one that gets you close to the business and lets you meet people.

Good advice from Gato and Jacques.

Get a part-time office or restaurant job to make ends meet and to buy/rent equipment. Don't quit until 50% of your income comes from photography. You're unrealistic to think you can just make it in NYC straight out of school.

A bar near a modeling agency in Soho, a cafe near a drama school in the East Village or a restaurant near FIT in Chelsea would be a good idea. You can meet people to start building your portfolio, which will give you experience. Say hi to the makeup counter salespeople at Macy's and Bloomingdale's and find out who needs a shot for their portfolio.

You can then apply what you learned on your own shoots as experience for new clients and stories when interviewing as an assistant.

I got my first big break ~20 years ago when what is now a $30 billion company had a small subsidiary redoing their website. The art director for the job was my next-door neighbor. It was a big enough assignment to pay for my first digital camera and studio lights. It sometimes is all about who-you-know, so get to know a lot of people.

Don't just make friends with the art director, but his/her assistant and the junior junior staff. They'll eventually move on to other agencies or clients and will hopefully remember you, if you made a good impression. If you're the 2nd assistant on a big job, hopefully the 1st assistant remembers you when s/he needs someone.

Build your social media presence. Learn video as well, lots of clients are asking for it. Create more than you consume, meaning watch all the YouTube, Netflix and museum exhibits you want for inspiration, but make sure you spend more time creating your own photos and videos.

 

[Ellis Vener]

1. Yhahah1 wrote:

I recently graduated but Im not able to get any kind of photography jobs for 4 months. Im interesting in fashion/portrait photography that I want to become a professional photographer in that field. I already tried internship without payments.

I feel that I need to start working so I can get pay in order to live since I didnt get pay for works. I know that Im still having lack of skills and knowledge for photography but at least I have 5 years of experience in photography as a student especially I got Phase One Certified Professional ceritifcation. Im very technical in camera gears, computers, and light equipments.

I kept looking for jobs or works from Indeed, craigslist, and more for 4 months but I got nothing so far. Of course, there were few jobs that Im qualified but I didnt get their responds. Im trying to learn more about Adobe softwares and other programs but at least I need to get a job so that I can afford Adobe CC, Capture One Pro, and other subcribtion based softwares.

How can I find a job or work to start my career as a photographer in NYC? Are there any sources to find photographers who need an assistant, digital tech, or intern?

Try to get a job at a camera store like Fotocare, SetShop, or one of the larger rental studios From there build up a network of contacts in the studios you want to work at. You will start at the very bottom -sweeping out the studio and running errands and may barely be able to pay rent in one of the outer boroughs. Keep your mouth shut and your ears and eyes open.

where did you go to school? What kind of expectations did they point you towards?

 

[Ellis Vener]

“Also, I'm not sure if you're a native speaker of English, but in any case, proofread your writing and use correct spelling and grammar.”

ABSOLUTELY. think about it: this is a business that is all about communicating clearly and consistent. When you get to top you can afford to be vague and have people guess what you might be thinking but at the bottom of the ladder clarity of expression is a prerequisite no matter what language you are working in.

 

[Ellis Vener]

I recently graduated but Im not able to get any kind of photography jobs for 4 months. Im interesting in fashion/portrait photography that I want to become a professional photographer in that field. I already tried internship without payments.

I feel that I need to start working so I can get pay in order to live since I didnt get pay for works. I know that Im still having lack of skills and knowledge for photography but at least I have 5 years of experience in photography as a student especially I got Phase One Certified Professional ceritifcation. Im very technical in camera gears, computers, and light equipments.

I kept looking for jobs or works from Indeed, craigslist, and more for 4 months but I got nothing so far. Of course, there were few jobs that Im qualified but I didnt get their responds. Im trying to learn more about Adobe softwares and other programs but at least I need to get a job so that I can afford Adobe CC, Capture One Pro, and other subcribtion based softwares.

How can I find a job or work to start my career as a photographer in NYC? Are there any sources to find photographers who need an assistant, digital tech, or intern?

You need to make a much better presentation than you've made here. I'm a professional photographer in NYC, and I occasionally hire assistants. You haven't given me any specific reason to hire you. Simply saying "Im very technical in ..." isn't enough. What can you do for me?

Sorry if that's harsh, but you need to start acting like a real professional NOW. I know, because I, too, studied photography in NYC and then struggled to get assisting work.

Highlight your skills and make people want to work with you. Find photographers and send them printed resumés via USPS, then follow up with a phone call the day after the resumé arrives. Customize your pitch to each one. Find out what they do, and explain how your skills are relevant to them.

Also, I'm not sure if you're a native speaker of English, but in any case, proofread your writing and use correct spelling and grammar.

I'm living proof that it can be done, but it sure ain't easy, so you have to be your absolute best in every interaction with anyone who might conceivably be able to help you.

Finally, network with other assistants. Most assisting work in NYC comes via word of mouth.

Thx for your advice. At this point, Im not sure what to do for my career. To be honest, I can not highlight my skills to present as I just graduated from college to work as a digital tech, assistant, or photographer. I already checked several websites but their requirments are way higher than my skill and knowledge. Any suggestions what I should do?

Start at the bottom: sweep floors, run errands, get a reputation for being reliable. Arriving 15 minutes early is being on time.

 

[MindInRewind]

....I have 5 years of experience in photography as a student especially I got Phase One Certified Professional ceritifcation. Im very technical in camera gears, computers, and light equipments.

Are you a good photographer? Do you have a portfolio of fashion shots that show what you are capable of doing?

I am a good photographer but I dont have a porftolio for fashion pics which is the biggest problem.

Well, how do you expect to find work in the fashion industry if you don't have a fashion portfolio?

When starting out in photography, your first couple years, yes years, should spent working on a portfolio of what you want to shoot - in your case fashion. In those years, you will shoot and and work (may not be in the industry) and shoot some more. Of course, you can always look for internships (always paid! do not get suckered into a non-paying internship!!) or you an assist or even, I'm sure some photographers (if asked politely) may let you come on set sometime.

Like I said, nothing happens overnight with photography.

~MIR

 

[Jacques Cornell]

I recently graduated but Im not able to get any kind of photography jobs for 4 months. Im interesting in fashion/portrait photography that I want to become a professional photographer in that field. I already tried internship without payments.

I feel that I need to start working so I can get pay in order to live since I didnt get pay for works. I know that Im still having lack of skills and knowledge for photography but at least I have 5 years of experience in photography as a student especially I got Phase One Certified Professional ceritifcation. Im very technical in camera gears, computers, and light equipments.

I kept looking for jobs or works from Indeed, craigslist, and more for 4 months but I got nothing so far. Of course, there were few jobs that Im qualified but I didnt get their responds. Im trying to learn more about Adobe softwares and other programs but at least I need to get a job so that I can afford Adobe CC, Capture One Pro, and other subcribtion based softwares.

How can I find a job or work to start my career as a photographer in NYC? Are there any sources to find photographers who need an assistant, digital tech, or intern?

You need to make a much better presentation than you've made here. I'm a professional photographer in NYC, and I occasionally hire assistants. You haven't given me any specific reason to hire you. Simply saying "Im very technical in ..." isn't enough. What can you do for me?

Sorry if that's harsh, but you need to start acting like a real professional NOW. I know, because I, too, studied photography in NYC and then struggled to get assisting work.

Highlight your skills and make people want to work with you. Find photographers and send them printed resumés via USPS, then follow up with a phone call the day after the resumé arrives. Customize your pitch to each one. Find out what they do, and explain how your skills are relevant to them.

Also, I'm not sure if you're a native speaker of English, but in any case, proofread your writing and use correct spelling and grammar.

I'm living proof that it can be done, but it sure ain't easy, so you have to be your absolute best in every interaction with anyone who might conceivably be able to help you.

Finally, network with other assistants. Most assisting work in NYC comes via word of mouth.

Thx for your advice. At this point, Im not sure what to do for my career. To be honest, I can not highlight my skills to present as I just graduated from college to work as a digital tech, assistant, or photographer.

You have no skills???

I already checked several websites but their requirments are way higher than my skill and knowledge. Any suggestions what I should do?

I told you: make personal contact. Send a printed resumé with a personalized cover letter that demonstrates you have done your homework and learned something about the photographer you're approaching. Don't just "check websites". Talk to people, call them on the phone, even if you might not think you have what they're looking for. I got my first big break from another assistant at a studio that didn't hire me. He sent me to a photographer who needed someone like me. This business works on personal relationships. Trust and familiarity is essential. Like I said, most assisting work gets assigned via other assistants because the photographer needs to know for sure that a second/third/fourth assistant is reliable, capable, and pleasant.

What did you learn in college? What can you do? After 5 years of study, you must have something to offer.

Look, you need a basic change of attitude or you're not going to make it. Sell me, man! Why should I hire you? Sit down and make a list of all the things you learned about photography and photo-related technology, all the things you can do that someone without your experience couldn't do, all the ways that you can be helpful, and all your personal characteristics that make you a good pick. My assisting resumé included my abilities to swim and drive motorcycles, language skills, ownership of a driver's license and a passport, familiarity with Macs and data backup tools, etc. My cover letter expressed my commitment, enthusiasm, and willingness to do any menial task with a smile.

One other tip: NEVER over-sell yourself. Do not claim skills you don't have. Be humble. I have seen new assistants crash & burn on their first gigs with me because they said they could do something, and when it was go time, they couldn't. That will get you blacklisted pronto.

You have my sympathies. I know how tough and discouraging it can be in the early days when you don't know how you're going to pay the rent. Ya gotta want it bad, and even that may not be enough. The director of the photo program I studied in told me only 5% of the students end up working as photographers 5 years down the road. Most just give up. I didn't. Maybe I was lucky, or maybe it was hard work. Probably both. But, here I am, making a living with a camera. I credit my survival to the fact that there is no other work I would rather do, and that gives me the motivation to keep trying, learning, talking, selling, and building relationships. For me, work isn't work, it's what I live for.

 

[Jacques Cornell]

I recently graduated but Im not able to get any kind of photography jobs for 4 months. Im interesting in fashion/portrait photography that I want to become a professional photographer in that field. I already tried internship without payments.

NY is the place to be for that kind of photography, but it's a tough town. Find any kind of work you can related to fashion or photography -- even if it's sweeping floors or running errands. Anything to get a foot in the door. You need to get to know people in the business -- and they need to know you. Make a good impression. Help people out. Act interested.

You need to learn (if you don't already know) how people in the business act, dress and talk. You need to learn to fit in,learn the secret language. Figure out where people hang out and where you can meet people.

How much do you know about fashion? Knowing your subject is just as important as knowing photography.

Find other beginners and team with them for portfolio building. Look for beginner designers, make-up people, models and other photographers and work with them on portfolio projects.

I feel that I need to start working so I can get pay in order to live since I didnt get pay for works. I know that Im still having lack of skills and knowledge for photography but at least I have 5 years of experience in photography as a student especially I got Phase One Certified Professional ceritifcation. Im very technical in camera gears, computers, and light equipments.

Take any job you can get, but preferably one that gets you close to the business and lets you meet people.

Work up a list of specific skills you do have that a photographer will need. More than a few photographers can use an assistant with tech skills. But as I said before, take any job you can find that gets you close to the business -- even if it's bartender or waiter in a place where fashion people hang out.

As someone else said, clean up your presentation -- spellcheck highlighted 4 words in that one paragraph. People will judge you by these things.

I kept looking for jobs or works from Indeed, craigslist, and more for 4 months but I got nothing so far. Of course, there were few jobs that Im qualified but I didnt get their responds. Im trying to learn more about Adobe softwares and other programs but at least I need to get a job so that I can afford Adobe CC, Capture One Pro, and other subcribtion based softwares.

Knock on doors. The kind of job you're looking for will not be on craigslist. Almost all the good jobs are filled by word of mouth. Get to know people in the business.

Develop an "elevator pitch," a three sentence sales pitch to tell people who you are and what you're trying to do. If that catches their interest be ready to keep going with more in depth. Have your portfolio on your phone -- organized and ready to show. Don't make them wade through selfies and pics of your last lunch to see your real photos. Get business cards with your phone, Instagram and website and always have them handy.

Moo.com prints really nice cards that can have a photo on one side and info on the back. You can order as few as 50 cards and get two cards for each of 25 different photos. It's a portfolio in a pocket, and people really like choosing their favorite card. They're a lot more expensive than bulk cards from, say, VistaPrint, but they're memorable (if your photos are), and I think well worth the cost of about $0.50 per card.

How can I find a job or work to start my career as a photographer in NYC? Are there any sources to find photographers who need an assistant, digital tech, or intern?

You say you have been a student and done internships for 5 years, yet you don't have a portfolio? Get on that right away. As I said above, in NY there are tons of other people trying to get started. Team with young designers and models to develop your look and build a portfolio. Get a presence going on social media.

And knock on doors.

Good luck

Gato

 

[Jacques Cornell]

....I have 5 years of experience in photography as a student especially I got Phase One Certified Professional ceritifcation. Im very technical in camera gears, computers, and light equipments.

Are you a good photographer? Do you have a portfolio of fashion shots that show what you are capable of doing?

I am a good photographer but I dont have a porftolio for fashion pics which is the biggest problem.

Here's another bitter pill: The fashion industry is probably the hardest photo niche to break into. Everyone and their sister wants in. And some of them are amazingly talented and driven. If you haven't already produced a terrific portfolio after 5 years of study, you are way behind in the race. Get cracking.

Also, don't limit yourself to just fashion unless you are absolutely committed to that and nothing else. There are lots of different careers in photography. Here's my dirty little secret of failure. I dreamed of doing travel photography, shooting scenics for magazines. Like nobody else in the world is good at that and wants to do it. LOL. Ridiculously competitive market. Also one that has largely evaporated over the 17 years I've been in the business. Anyway, I wasn't ready to compete after I completed my studies. So, I worked as an assistant for three years on all kinds of shoots - location, studio, advertising, lifestyle, portraits, stock, product, editorial - you name it. I built solid skills. After that, I was no closer to cracking the travel market. But, I'd done some event work and liked it. And, I had the technical & lighting skills to be good at it. Established an event photo business because I'd looked around and decided that my competition was mostly lousy, and I've been at it ever since.

 

[hahah1]

....I have 5 years of experience in photography as a student especially I got Phase One Certified Professional ceritifcation. Im very technical in camera gears, computers, and light equipments.

Are you a good photographer? Do you have a portfolio of fashion shots that show what you are capable of doing?

I am a good photographer but I dont have a porftolio for fashion pics which is the biggest problem.

Well, how do you expect to find work in the fashion industry if you don't have a fashion portfolio?

When starting out in photography, your first couple years, yes years, should spent working on a portfolio of what you want to shoot - in your case fashion. In those years, you will shoot and and work (may not be in the industry) and shoot some more. Of course, you can always look for internships (always paid! do not get suckered into a non-paying internship!!) or you an assist or even, I'm sure some photographers (if asked politely) may let you come on set sometime.

Like I said, nothing happens overnight with photography.

~MIR

I didnt ask for that since Im not able to work as a fashion photographer. Im just looking for assist or digital tech works.

 

[lbuclk=]

I recently graduated but Im not able to get any kind of photography jobs for 4 months. Im interesting in fashion/portrait photography that I want to become a professional photographer in that field. I already tried internship without payments.

I feel that I need to start working so I can get pay in order to live since I didnt get pay for works. I know that Im still having lack of skills and knowledge for photography but at least I have 5 years of experience in photography as a student especially I got Phase One Certified Professional ceritifcation. Im very technical in camera gears, computers, and light equipments.

I kept looking for jobs or works from Indeed, craigslist, and more for 4 months but I got nothing so far. Of course, there were few jobs that Im qualified but I didnt get their responds. Im trying to learn more about Adobe softwares and other programs but at least I need to get a job so that I can afford Adobe CC, Capture One Pro, and other subcribtion based softwares.

How can I find a job or work to start my career as a photographer in NYC? Are there any sources to find photographers who need an assistant, digital tech, or intern?

I have always worked two jobs since 1982(?) often working 17 hours with very little sleep, the photography work was part time mainly news and editorial. it's never easy, whatever skills you have ,use them for income.

 

[BAK]

RE>> What did you learn in college? What can you do? After 5 years of study, you must have something to offer.<<

I'm curious about this, too.

Jacques, I think he may have gone to a poor school.

For sure, the "career preparation" courses were not very good, but "not good" is common in lots of professions. I spend my days trying to fix up lawyers' education and their skills at business planning.

He may not have a decent camera. But the lowest level Rebel from three years ago, with an 18 - 55 kit lens would be fine.

BAK

 

[hahah1]

RE>> What did you learn in college? What can you do? After 5 years of study, you must have something to offer.<<

I'm curious about this, too.

Jacques, I think he may have gone to a poor school.

For sure, the "career preparation" courses were not very good, but "not good" is common in lots of professions. I spend my days trying to fix up lawyers' education and their skills at business planning.

He may not have a decent camera. But the lowest level Rebel from three years ago, with an 18 - 55 kit lens would be fine.

BAK

I want to make this thing clear.

I went to art school with huge reputations. However, I was focusing on technical aspects of photography like computer, camera, lighting, and more. I DID not study and learn anything about portrait or fashion but art. Now, I regret about not studying portrait/fashion from school but myself. In fact, nobody is teaching fashion and portrait seriously in my school and limited.

Yes, Im start interesting in fashion/portrait base on my artistic aspects and technical skills. I think it's not even too late to start something new.