I know it's been quite awhile since I've been an active contributor but that's water under the bridge. Anyway I am closing my business. After almost 4 years it was time.
I learned a lot about photography, business and people along the way. At times I think I should have just stayed a DWAC and worked on improving my talent. I am looking forward to getting back to being an amatuer and being able to enjoy photography without all the other distractions.
I am getting rid of some of my gear, it's on the B&S forum here; I haven't linked it because I don't know if it's against the rules.
Thanks to all here, especially Carl, Shane, Russ, Paul and John: you all taught me a lot.
Ron,
I'm hopeful that as an 'amateur' you'll find more time to spend here at the Sports Corner. Sorry to hear about the business, but I always have felt it a particular challenge to maintain that balance between doing what you want to do because you enjoy it and doing what you must do because it's a job. Here's to your getting back to the enjoyment part.
This summer I shot my first swim meet on very short notice. On the drive there I thought, "what images would SwimmerDad look to do". That's how valuable this site and it's members are to me.
Ron, my best wishes go your way and hope you find the enjoyment in photography again.
Seems like it is a transition time for many of us. I really enjoyed your pics, insights and feedback over the years--especially about swimming! Assume we will see your great work once in awhile. Been a fun ride hasn't it.
I did the same thing last month. I shot alot of sports for several years and some HS senior portraits on the side. It became a distraction as it wasn't what I really wanted to do, to make money anyway.
Good luck Ron,
I have been reduced to an occasional lurker myself. I had to sell all of my gear about 1 1/2 yrs. ago. I enjoyed your work and remember you having nice things to say about my efforts. Good luck and I hope you can regain that excitement and wonder of your early work. It is so intoxicating.
Rob
Rags Hef wrote:
I have a doctrine now. Never earn your living doing something you really enjoy. The pieces of silver make it a lot less enjoyable.
Taking away the discretion of doing it and letting others (your customers) tell you how to do it, is just not enjoyment.
Rags
I couldn't disagree more with that statement. Getting paid for what you truly enjoy makes it much more rewarding.
Unless you are selling fine art prints, your clients always have input on what they purchase. As a professional, it's your duty and responsibility to work through such things.
leewoolery wrote:
I couldn't disagree more with that statement. Getting paid for what you truly enjoy makes it much more rewarding.
Unless you are selling fine art prints, your clients always have input on what they purchase. As a professional, it's your duty and responsibility to work through such things.
Much success,
Lee Woolery
Speedshot Photo
I agree with you Lee, I didn't want to comment on the earlier post because I didn't want to start a debate; not the purpose of my post.
Being successful certainly makes up for the diffuculties of combining passion and profession. I wasn't successful at it. I'm sure if i was I might feel much as you do.
I applaud those who can make it work for them. For me, I made the wrong choice 4 years ago, and what's done is done. I took what i could from the lesson.
It's funny that you commented here because my daughter has been involved in riding with perhaps the intention of competition. Who know, perhaps i will soon be looking for your critiques on my dressage shots lol.
