Editor's Note: We've partnered with 30-year veteran photographer Steve Carty to provide you with tips to take your photography business to the next level.
When I decided to add video to my skillset, I knew I was venturing into unfamiliar territory, but it turned out to be one of the smartest moves I've made in my career.
Today, I want to share with you why venturing into video can significantly enhance your storytelling capabilities and enrich your career.
Starting Small: The Leap from Photography to Video
The transition from still images to moving pictures can be daunting, especially when you're just getting comfortable with photography.
I've learned that starting small and applying the principles you know from photography— like shooting with natural light or using manual exposure — can make this transition smoother.
Your camera's video mode is an extension of what you already know, and even if you start with just your phone, you're taking a step in the right direction.
Dedicating Time to Storytelling
Over the past few years, I've dedicated a significant portion of my time to improve my storytelling through video.
I want to invite you on this journey, and I’m asking you to create and share your own video content.
Our stories are unique, and video is an incredible medium to express them.
Don't be discouraged by the gear; if you don’t have a camera body that shoots 4k video, let your phone be your starting point.
Overcoming Mental Blocks
Starting any new challenge can be daunting, and it's normal to encounter mental blocks.
Today, I want to focus on overcoming the fear of being in front of the camera.
Being on camera is about putting yourself out there, sharing your thoughts and ideas with the world.
This requires a huge mindset shift, you’re pushing yourself into new territories, and growing a new skillset through discomfort.
Mindset Shifts for Success
Clients hire who they like. Clients who are looking to spend money want to get a good sense of the person before they make any decisions.
Having video content of you working and talking to camera explaining your process is the quickest way to share your ‘likability’ with potential clients.
Here are some mindset shifts that helped me become more comfortable speaking to the camera:
Embrace discomfort
The biggest growth happens in the most uncomfortable situations.
The professional photography space is evolving daily, and adapting is key.
Being able to handle your thoughts while you’re uncomfortable is an amazing skillset.
Talking to the camera is a great way to quickly grow as a person and a communicator.
Prepare like it's an exam
Just as you would prepare for an important test, practice speaking to the camera the same way you would present yourself to new people.
Pretend you’re speaking to an engaged audience instead of a lens.
Create short points that you want to hit and reference that note if you get lost.
Focus on the process
Believing in yourself comes from first, knowing you can do this, second, doing the prep and filming, and finally, celebrating small wins.
No one is great talking to a camera the first time.
Celebrate that first great take or even your first attempt.
Continuous attempts lead to comfort.
Be graceful in the spotlight
Get accustomed to scenarios where you're the center of attention. It's essential for personal and professional growth.
Just like you command the room when you’re making photographs, you can command the room whenever you’re speaking.
Practicing speaking to the camera can help more than you can imagine when all the attention is on you.
Practice authenticity
In today's world, clients seek out creatives who can not only deliver quality work but also showcase their unique personalities and processes.
In 2024, transparency is the new meta.
Showing who we are and why we do what we do will attract the right clients.
In this new digital landscape, transparency is more valuable than ever.
Adding video to my skill set has not only improved my creative expression but also opened new doors and opportunities in my career.
Having the ability to create small video projects for clients has doubled my yearly income.
But it took me years to have the courage to speak on camera.
Once I got through my own mental blocks, it’s been the best thing I’ve done for myself, my confidence, and my career in the past 5 years.
Because I started speaking on camera, I have an active YouTube channel and an incredible photography community.
Like attracts like.
If you are trying to attract new clients, being on camera and showing your process might be exactly what you need to do to attract the clients you should be working for.
I encourage you to take that first step, no matter how small, towards talking to on camera and incorporating video into your work.
Embrace the learning curve, start sharing your unique perspective, and watch as your creativity and career flourish.
Join me in making the leap from not just capturing moments but also telling stories in motion.
Your journey into video starts now.
It could be the smartest thing you do this year.
Thanks for reading me this week. See you next time.
