Hey I’m Rochelle! 

I’m a 6+ year photographer who specializes in Maternity Photography! I’m so excited you’re here! I was a beginner once, too so here’s a bit of advice on how to start!

Becoming a photographer is an exciting journey filled with challenges, losses, and wins! Whether you’re drawn to capturing breathtaking nature moments, heartfelt love at weddings, or the beauty of everyday life, photography offers endless possibilities for your interests even when they change. However, like any career, it requires dedication, practice, and the right tools. Here’s a guide on what you need to become a photographer:

1. Passion and Creativity: Photography is more than just pointing and shooting; it’s about capturing moments and telling stories through images. Trust me as someone who has been diagnosed with ADHD and has a hard time sticking to anything but has stuck to this PURELY through passion, you’ll need it. Having a passion for photography will drive you to explore new styles and push through the challenges, hustle culture, and competition.

2. Knowledge and Skills: While natural talent is beneficial, understanding the technical aspects of photography is essential. Learn about composition, lighting, exposure, and post-processing techniques to enhance your images. Online tutorials, workshops, content retreats/days, and photography courses can help you develop these skills.

3. Camera Gear: A good camera is crucial for capturing high-quality images. While professional DSLR or mirrorless cameras are ideal, you can start with a basic DSLR or even a high-end smartphone with a good camera. Invest in lenses that suit your photography style, such as wide-angle for landscapes or portrait lenses for portraits.

4. Tripod (optional for portrait photography): A sturdy tripod is essential for stability, especially in low light or when shooting long exposures. It helps reduce camera shake, ensuring sharp images.

5. Editing Software: Post-processing is a vital part of digital photography. Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop are popular choices for editing and enhancing images. Learning to use editing software can significantly improve the quality of your photos and even help you perfect shooting through the lens.

6. Storage and Backup: Invest in reliable storage solutions to store your photos safely. Consider cloud storage or external hard drives for backup to protect your images from loss or damage.

7. Networking and Marketing: Building a strong network within the photography community can lead to new opportunities and collaborations. Social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook are great for showcasing your work and connecting with potential clients.

8. Business Skills: If you plan to pursue photography professionally, understanding the business side is crucial. Learn about pricing, contracts, and marketing to effectively run your photography business.

9. Continuous Learning: Photography is an ever-evolving field, so it’s essential to stay updated with the latest trends and techniques. Attend workshops, read books, and follow your favorite photographers to keep learning and growing as a photographer.

10. Patience and Perseverance: Building a career in photography takes time and persistence. Be patient with yourself, keep practicing, and don’t be afraid to experiment and try new things.

Becoming a photographer requires a combination of passion, creativity, technical knowledge, and the right tools. With dedication and perseverance, you can turn your love for photography into a freeing career where you get to choose what you take on and be your own boss.