Expert: Don Wood - 11/24/2011

Question
Hi, and thanks for taking the time to give insight on my question.

I am a high school student wanting to major in photography. I believe I'm very driven and will do whatever I need to in order to get where I'm going. I've been shooting for almost three years now and have managed to put together quite the portfolio. I try to surround myself with chances to better my work. Im now head photographer for my school yearbook!(the books gunna be great!) I take senior pictures and shadow people at weddings. I do photo work for all the local bands in town.

I've recently got in touch with a third year undergraduate in the school I want to attend and heard my portfolio would get me in handsdown. I'm excited but am worrisome of the high cost of a photography degree. I hear that most people that really make it in to business without schooling at all! So I was thinking about putting school on hold and seeing what knowledge I could get from people around me first(oh and save up of course).(by "the business" I'm talking shooting for magazines or going on tour with bands etc.) I live in the Houston area and apparently there's a big commercial/ commercial food photography following? It's not really what I want to do but I could learn some more about lighting and shoot set up. Maybe one of these photographers could mentor me for the spring and summer but... how do I ask?

for my question...
If you were to grant the title of apprentice to anyone how would you like them to go about getting your attention and proving their worth?

would showing up to your studio be to much?
would you blow off a well worded letter or e-mail?
If they WERE any good would you consider paying them a small wage while teaching them?
what might be some requirements?


oh and if it's not too much:
Do you think it's possible to jump to different places in the industry? from food to say fashion or music?

thanks again and sorry for multiple questions

Answer
I think I would consider continuing what you are doing now. Some studios might view you as a threat. You work for a while and then leave with all their trade secrets at your fingertips. This is one view. I'm sure you wouldn't do that intentionally. I would expect you to realize that in a market like we are in now, people consider hiring photographers only when they need them and for a very specific time. I would consider doing the photography gig as a second job. I would work at that job and when photo assignments came in I'd take them. I'd try to build up a war-chest of a year of expenses, including; rent, food, photo expenses (cameras, lenses, etc), gas, auto (both purchasing and maintaining), clothing, and other expenses. I don't think in this market that you can jump into the field without such a nest-egg.
Showing up at their studio could be a turn-off, they're busy, they only see people which want to employ them, anything that prevents this is a no-no. A letter sent to them would be one way to talk to get a foot in the door. They could then decide on a time which they could see you. It would be up to the person in charge as to what you would be paid. I hate to be a nay-sayer but photographers are very protective of their image and the reputation of their studio.
All this said, I would consider getting a further education. The discipline you will learn will well suit you in your future career. Consider that getting good grades in school is indicative of your willingness to learn. I would consider getting at least a minor in business as a part of your degree. This will come in handy at the least in pricing your work. Any knowledge you get is extremely valuable. I always conclude by saying that of 10 aspiring photographers in a year, at the end of the year, 7 will be in another field out of photography, 2 may last for another year, 1 may make if for longer, and I emphasize may. It's a tough field but if you can make it, it's very rewarding. I wish you well in whatever career you decide upon. Don't be afraid to ask people for help. That is a sign of maturity. Above all, don't quit your day-job until you've built your nest-egg. Good Luck!