Recently we had a communication with Tyson and he told us his story how to become a professional photographer, which we think might be interesting to all of those who pursue this career path. Below is a quote from his email.

“I am a full time photographer and author who worked my way to where I am. I work with more than two-dozen magazines on a repeat basis and have worked with more than 100 publications, dozens of corporations and even top secret military projects during my 20+ year career as a photographer.

I personally believe in working from the ground up to establish rapport and friendship with my clients. While concentrating on my photography career, I assisted for other photographers and took advanced English Literature classes to improve my writing style. I was the editor of a small town newspaper and worked in camera stores to better familiarize myself with the industry. When I was ready to begin working for a global audience, I personally met each and every editor I currently work with. I gained their trust by meeting deadlines and maintaining an expected business ethic. I like to think that those who I now work for, I earned that right.

There are plenty of books and resources that can assist with connecting photographers and editors, but in my experience editors have no desire to work with weekend warriors or those who have business interests elsewhere, like their full-time job. They want some form of precedence knowing that they can confidently move forward with a photographer they've chosen and not have their time wasted.”