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|| SportsShooter.com: Member Message Board
Open Letter to SS Members...
Jason Heffran, Photographer
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Pittsburgh | PA | USA | Posted: 1:56 AM on 11.19.10 |
->> Open Letter to SS Members:
You can line up and say, "We told you so..." (apologize in advance for the length of this post)
I wanted to pass along a reality check that I have lived to everyone who takes offense to the concise, succinct and sometimes brutally honest responses that the true professionals offer up to certain topics. My story should be an epiphany to some and probably make some scratch their head.
I hope that everyone who is NOT a professional photographer, editor or journalist with enough experience to say, "I've done that already..." reads this.
Read it and REALIZE that I am falling on the sword publicly in the hopes that others don't make the same mistakes I have.
It has taken me far to long to realize what SportsShooter IS and how it CAN BENEFIT a new photographer. I thought, "I get paid, I got on SS so therefore I must be no different than these guys who are always bashing everyone with a dream!"
The problem is that I didn't realize how bad, in comparison, I am at taking photos.
I didn't realize that things should be done a certain way because really smart professionals have been doing them that way for years and they WORK and are GOOD for the industry as a whole. I thought that I was one of the "young guns" and that all of these traditional ways were an endangered species... MY way was the way of the future. I remember even saying that at one time or another. In hindsight, I said it because I was naive. VERY naive.
What exactly did I do? What advice did I get REPEATEDLY and IGNORE? Where do I start?
1. I offered up advice on topics that I was unqualified to comment on. I should have sat quietly and waited for others with more experience to shed light on the topic. I may have learned something. Instead, I spouted off a professionally immature comment and by revisting the thread, realize that I look like a GWC.
2. I asked questions that were absolutely novice. I didn't search the message boards to see that my question was talked about 1,253 times before. I applaud the pros that would post the link without degrading me. Brad Mangin is one that comes to mind. I am grateful for his patience and the time he took (more than once) to direct me. I didn't know how idiotic my question would look a year later - probably due to the fact that my arrogance/ignorance got in the way. After all, I had expensive gear... I must know what I am talking about.
3. I ignored the advice I got OVER AND OVER again about making friends with other shooters in your area. I didn't disregard this advice for any specific reason, but initially had the attitude of "I'm here to do a job, not make friends." The reality was that I was so underqualified to do the job that I didn't have any time to socialize. Being a good salesman hurt me one more than one job. I also didn't want to be viewed as a pest and was also slowly learning that I was much more inexperienced that I thought. Was I polite? I think so. But, here's a sad fact... after 2+ years of shooting around the same guys at least 100 times, I can only tell you a few names and have only carried on a 3-minute conversation with one of them. I'm usually the guy in one corner of the endzone while 2 or 3 stand in the other. The irony is that I am actually a pretty personable guy - I just didn't want anyone to see through the falacy.
4. I thought that these experienced pros were crazy about one item that I have come full-circle on... "What do you mean that your photo of a little league baseball game is better than my photo of Albert Pujols?"
I refused to believe that simply "shooting the big leagues" didn't mean one damn thing. I couldn't get it through my thick skull that it didn't matter. What DID matter was capturing awesome photos - regardless of what level the players were.
I thought that shooting on spec (a whole other topic) and getting a web image on SI.com made me a top-notch pro. A thumbnail in ESPN Magazine meant that I had finally "arrived". What an embarrassing thing to admit now. The $2 commission didn't cover parking.
Did I find a way to leverage the fact that I'd been "published" (LOL) in ESPN Magazine? Sure. But that's where it ended.
I learned the hard way that crappy images of the NFL are not going to help me. Why? It's so simple... the guys that I aspire to be like are creating killer images and have been doing it for quite some time. When I compare apples-to-apples, I realized how much I didn't belong there. I have to admit, I have seen SO MANY people at MLB and NFL games who were there for no legitimate reason and didn't belong. Guess what? I was one of them for an entire year.
5. I used to defend shooting on spec as a legitimate aspect of my business model (no offense to any of those companies - not judging the business model - just how it played out in my situation).
Why did I scoff at the idea that it dilluted the calue of the craft? It's because THAT was how I was cluttering the NFL sidelines and MLB photo pits for other shooters so I could shoot those "pro athletes".
The reality is harsh - I was shooting pro sports because of my willingness to pay my own way and split the benefits - NOT because I was good enough to be hired by a legitimate media outlet to go shoot.
*I don't want this to turn into a "spec is bad/good" thread, but I can say that I did it for the wrong reasons. Would I go shoot something on spec now? Probably. I will say that my decision would be a very much a business one and not an emotional one. Simply saying that I "shot a Steelers game" no longer has any value to me. I would have adopted this thought process much earlier by simply listening to those who were trying to guide me by being brutally honest. Instead, I took it as a personal attack. Wrong reaction.
I was one of those guys who would ask, "How can I get a credential or sideline access to..." The fact that I asked that question speaks volumes on my inexperience at the time. I got mad when no one would tell me how. I thought, "I'll show them! I'll be on that sideline next game!"
Being the type of personality that I am, I had no problem calling and asking the PR/MEDIA RELATIONS department of an NFL team and ask to be put on the "list". Little did I know that by doing so, I WAS putting myself on a list. A mental one of people who were "amateurs with a big lens". When I DID come across their desk again (even with a legitimate media affiliation), I was "that guy" who didn't know how things worked just a month before.
IMPORTANT!! I made the mistake of not realizing HOW FAST YOU CAN BE ON THE OUTSIDE LOOKING IN. By simply not following sound advice from people who were experienced and choosing to do it MY WAY, I proceeded to unintentionally p*ss off at least one person to the point where I was actually mentioned by name as someone that an NHL team would not want a legitimate company to send to shoot the games. I found this out after a credential request was denied. Another very embrassing moment. One I could have avoided.
They had absolutely no problem with the company (very well known), but me personally. I had never met the individual who said this. I later learned that the reason for the "black-balling" stemmed from an unintentional situation months before that I would've made sure to avoid... knowing what I know now.
MY ADVICE: ACTING LIKE A BULL IN A CHINA SHOP WILL PUT YOU IN THE SAME POSITION AS ME. Nobody cares if you are sorry, didn't mean it or did something unintentionally - there are too many people just as good, if not better than you, that can step in. Once I found the noose around my neck in certain circles, that's it. I find myself abandoning my original goal and pursuing a different path.
* The odd thing is that I should know as well as anyone what percentage of athletes actually make the pros. I was one late injury away from the major leagues. I had already made to Cape Cod and was "that close". If I would've thought back to the process I followed to get to that point, I probably would've realized that I wasn't going to get to the upper eschelon if I couldn't excel at the middle levels.
If you are new to SS, which I still consider myself to be, tread lightly with what questions you ask, what comments you post and what attitude you portray. Many, many times have I been told by former SS members that controlled whether or not I got a job/assignment, "I saw your post on SS about..." It has bit me in the azz more than once. I've lost jobs because I showed my inexperience with a question and they didn't have faith in my ability.
The lesson learned? Imagine you are in a room with these amazing photographers. Would you talk, or would you listen to the conversations between them? The answer is obvious... you would listen and learn. In hindsight, I should've done more of the latter.
I do apologize for the long post. I felt that it was important to pass along my experiences in the hopes that not only can others avoid my mistakes, but also to show how unintentional actions can have lasting effects. I never realized how small the sports photography community was. Needless to say, I do now.
Thanks to this rough road, I have finally realized that being a "pro" has less to do with whether or not you get paid to take photos and more to do with how you conduct yourself to hopefully become a "contributor" to the success and longevity of the indsutry as a whole.
NOW... for those who are heading down the same path that I find myself on. STOP. Hopefully this post helps. Maybe you don't even know you are. I didn't.
I'm sure that I will receive quite a few "huh?", "inappropriate" and "off-topic" remarks. That's fine. I'm sure I'm not the only one to have said this in this forum, but had I listened (read) more than I talked (commented/posted)... I may not be my own biggest obstacle to success.
After all, it is hard to get out of your own way.
ALL comments are welcomed. |
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Mark J. Terrill, Photographer
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Simi Valley | CA | USA | Posted: 2:49 AM on 11.19.10 |
->> Jason,
Very well put. I think everyone coming into the business or coming into SportsShooter should read this. I wish that I had this to read when I was first starting out.
Best of luck with your career.
Mark |
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Andrew Fielding, Photographer
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Denver | CO | USA | Posted: 2:53 AM on 11.19.10 |
| ->> I'm with Mark, great post, highly recommended for everyone. |
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Paul Nelson, Photographer
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Temperance | MI | USA | Posted: 7:53 AM on 11.19.10 |
->> Jason - thanks for posting. I don't think you can expect everyone to skip the "learning the ropes" part of this industry. Everyone's learning curve and experience varies, so some people start understanding the advanced details of the job sooner than others. What really matters is that a photographer keeps learning, keeps trying to do what's best in the situations they're put in and respects everyone they do business with. It's best to say that customers are not just who's on the other end of your lenses, but everyone around you.
I think we all wish we knew then what we know now...but we should understand that each and every day is an opportunity to improve. Certainly Rome wasn’t built in a day… |
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Jeroen de Jong, Photographer
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Waalwijk | _ | Netherlands | Posted: 7:53 AM on 11.19.10 |
->> >>> "I do apologize for the long post."
It should be much longer :D
Good post. True |
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Scott Rovak, Photographer
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St. Louis | MO | USA | Posted: 9:02 AM on 11.19.10 |
->> Bravo Jason,
I stand up and applaud you for writing this. With your permission, I would love to print this and have it as a "must read" for everyone that tells me how good they are, and that they want to get into pro sports photography.
Good Luck,
Scott |
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Brian Tietz, Photographer
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Fort Myers | FL | USA | Posted: 9:10 AM on 11.19.10 |
->> Jason, Thank you for putting yourself out there and eating some humble pie, I know a few other sportsshooters who could use a slice.
I wrote a similar post a few years back, unfortunately I went back on my word and it took me another year of shooting on spec for another big "wire service" before I realized how how stupid I must have looked to the real photographers who were there actually getting paid for their time.
Having a 400 f/2.8 and a camera that shoots 10fps might get you a sideline pass and impress your non-photographer friends and family, but gear alone won't earn you any respect from your peers.
Congrats on seeing the light, now go out and shoot!
BTW I would love to hear stories from other former "wire service" shooters who got tired of paying for parking and earning $2 commissions.
-tietz |
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Jason Heffran, Photographer
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Tarentum | PA | United States | Posted: 9:21 AM on 11.19.10 |
->> @ Jereon - When I wrote the first draft, it was much longer but touched on points that actually may have clouded my real message. I was reading a post that has drawn the usual response that I used to take offense to.
http://www.sportsshooter.com/message_display.html?tid=37141
I have to mention that Chuck Liddy used to make me mad. I used to think, "Why can't you just be nice?" But, then I actually read many, many other threads where Chuck commented. I realized something about the way he answered, or advised... it was efficient. I learned to appreciate Chuck's answers and the "brutally honest" nature of some of them.
I can imagine that, as a professional journalist (a word I doubt will ever be used to describe myself), they grow weary of hearing the same questions over and over. But, looking back, I realize why they are asked. I realize even more why there is a tone of frustration in the responses.
Becoming a member of SS became a goal of mine once I read it for the first time. It's was preoccupying. I thought, "If I can just get a current member to sponsor me, I'll be in the same class as these guys!" (thanks to Dave Prelosky - I do appreciate the sponsorship)
But I'm not sure why we do this as newbies, but I was so eager to let everyone know that I arrived (laugh, I am) so I tried to participate in threads that I had no business in. My example of how I would act if I were in the same room with these guys is true. Not sure why I didn't do that here. Oh yeah... that arrogance/ignorance problem.
I'm a true believer that the relationships that I have damaged can be repaired. I inadvertently stepped on a lot of toes trying to "build rome in a day". Also, my sudden appearance at high-level events drew some attention from the guys that had been doing it for some time and knew all the up and coming photographers. After all, they took a traditional route. Internships, assistant, second-shooter, etc. It goes back to my reference regarding my baseball career. I couldn't have played for the Braves in 8th grade. But, that's what I was trying to do as a sports photographer.
This thread could easily do more damage than good to my career. I realize that. But, it's more important to me that I place this SS Billboard out here so that someone can look and say, "Oh crap... I'm doing that!"
I've also done a little self-evaluation of WHY I thought I could just barnstorm through the ranks. It comes down to the fact that I have always been an entrepreneur. I had some success. It moved very fast and I went from an unknown baseball player (who may be the only guy from the 1994 Team USA 40-man roster to not make the show) to having a company that exploded in the 90's "internet boom". I got the awards, accolades and respect from my peers in a very short amount of time - in an industry I knew nothing about. I just knew how to grow a company.
Here's an article written in Busines First. It shows what I am talking about.
http://bizjournals.com/louisville/stories/2000/01/24/story7.html
I thought that I could blow through the ranks as a photographer, BS some folks, jump over any interns who I thought were wasting their time and show the world that MY way was better. After all, it worked in the Internet industry??
Needless to say, that wasn't received well by those who paid their dues. Of course, I didn't realize that my actions at the time would have such an effect on my ability to grow in this business. I p*ssed off the wrong people by appearing arrogant or aloof - all completely unintentional. Call it "involuntary career manslaughter". I wish I could contact every one of them and apologize and explain that simple immaturity was to blame.
I'm very interested in what the "big guns" on SS think about this. I also value every comment that I hope will follow. I've developed thick skin and no longer take anything personal. I think that is one major requirement of posting here... realize that you are not going be given a big warm hug and give a line of BS. You're going to get a harsh reality check from those that KNOW. I may not agree with everyone and their thoughts on the hot topics of the industry, but I've learned that their insight is invaluable to developing a business practices model that works.
Just because I have the same equipment, doesn't mean I have the same talent. It just means that I opened my wallet. |
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Jason Heffran, Photographer
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Tarentum | PA | United States | Posted: 9:34 AM on 11.19.10 |
| ->> @ Scott - Sorry I missed your question. You have more than my permission, I encourage you to do so. Posting it here was my way of hopefully getting it in front of some shooters who are inadvertently on their way to my destination. |
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Joe Morahan, Photographer
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Denver | Co | USA | Posted: 9:46 AM on 11.19.10 |
| ->> well said Jason!!!! Don't be so hard on yourself, if you thought that any of the pros on here have never made a similar mistake you would be incorrect. We all learn from our success and our failures. Just make sure to turn this around and the sky is the limit!!!! |
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Blaine McCartney, Photographer
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Sheridan | WY | USA | Posted: 9:55 AM on 11.19.10 |
| ->> This needs to be posted up top of the home page as a newsletter for everyone to read this excellent post. |
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Jason Heffran, Photographer
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Tarentum | PA | United States | Posted: 10:00 AM on 11.19.10 |
| ->> @ Blaine & Joe - Thank you for kind words. Hey Blaine, if that were to happen... I hope I get to fix some grammatical errors. I learned that the editors on here will have a feeding frenzy. LOL (and to think that I was an English major at one time) |
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Clark Brooks, Photo Editor, Photographer
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Urbana | IL | USA | Posted: 10:22 AM on 11.19.10 |
->> @Jason,
I agree with Blaine. This should be a newsletter article. It wasn't too long. You could have written more and I would have read it all. I plan to bookmark this thread because sure as schatt in five or six months, there will be new shooter here and more to follow breathing fire and digital files looking for a short cut to an NFL/NHL/MLB sideline near them. My standard response will be read your post. Knowing how the human mind works, I'd be amazed if they will remotely 'get it' if they even take the time to read it, chew on it and sleep on it.
Well done and keep pluggin' away doing the right things the right way. I am confident at your level of introspection that the level of success you found, and perhaps more, in your other endeavors will eventually find its way to you. Thanks for sharing your experience with the community. Your honest, unrestrained post will have lasting value to this community and the future plebes accepted as SS members. |
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Chuck Liddy, Photographer
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Durham | NC | USA | Posted: 10:28 AM on 11.19.10 |
| ->> Jason, very well written. Thanks. I'm covering a game tomorrow where there will be the highest number of spec/gwc's/ and "wanna be seen on the sideline's with my big len's" folks of the year (probably 85%). I'm thinking of printing out several pages of your post and taping them along the walls in the photo "work" area. I think you may get an alltime high "informative" for this and I also think SS should run this as a headlined story. Good luck to you. |
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Eric Canha, Photographer
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Brockton | MA | United States | Posted: 10:55 AM on 11.19.10 |
->> Clark BINGO. My favorite line of all time was said to me my first month out.... You don't know what you don't know until you know it. Which unfortunately doesn't make any sense until you KNOW what it means ;)
Glad to know I wasn't the only one who started life on the board Liddyphobic and learned to love 'em.
Good post. |
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Scott Evans, Photographer
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Bay Village | OH | USA | Posted: 12:29 PM on 11.19.10 |
| ->> Just awesome Jason. I"m not just talking about the insight you've shared either. Actually, it's the transparency with which you shared it that impresses me the most. I haven't made every mistake you've mentioned, but I've made quite a few of them and fortunately, I've learned. Usually it was the hard way so my only critique of your post is this: "why the heck couldn't you have thought and posted all of this years ago"? Seriously, thanks for the thoughts and candor. Professional, you definitely are. |
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Jon Gardiner, Photographer
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Durham | NC | USA | Posted: 12:54 PM on 11.19.10 |
| ->> I nominate Jason Heffran for "Most Informative Post Of The Year." Could there be a Think Tank prize for this? With all the threads about how to get to the "Big Time" and spec vs. paid or how the profession is being destroyed, Jason's post is well put, humble and should be referred to often... |
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Jeff Lack, Photographer
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Midlothian | VA | USA | Posted: 1:09 PM on 11.19.10 |
| ->> Well, as a newbie (and yes, I read the whole thing), a big THANKS!!! Unfortunately, I am currently able to relate to most of what you've said. This is now my Bible! |
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Chris Hunt, Photographer
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Seattle | WA | USA | Posted: 2:10 PM on 11.19.10 |
->> I tried to click 'Informative' more than once, but it didn't work.
As a brand-spanking-new SS member, the timeliness and candidness of your post is really appreciated. You've reminded me of a lesson I learned late in college: the harder I work for something, the more I appreciate and respect it when I have it. |
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Brian Blanco, Photographer
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Tampa / Sarasota | FL | USA | Posted: 2:23 PM on 11.19.10 |
->> Jason,
Next time I'm in Pittsburgh, I'd like to buy you a beer. Nice post.
It looks like you took the long way around but it's apparent that you "get it".
Best of luck,
-Blanco |
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Jason Heffran, Photographer
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Tarentum | PA | United States | Posted: 3:45 PM on 11.19.10 |
->> I have to say I am "moved" by the responses. I'd like to address each one individually but that would be another long dissertation.
I just got back from a meeting and there are 76 "Informative"... wow. I'm glad that my "Jerry Maguire Mission Statement" came across the way I intended. I wasn't sure when I hit PUBLISH last night.
I wish I would've learned this earlier but in line with what was said by someone, "Knowing what you know is important, but realizing what you DON'T know is the key..."
I'd have to say I've been learning the latter part of that sentence recently. Also a thank you to the emails I received from non-members who were just browsing the message boards. |
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Joseph Zimmerman, Photographer
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Howard | Pa | USA | Posted: 7:51 PM on 11.19.10 |
->> Since you not shooting on spec anymore who was your contact? I'd love to shoot a pro game.
j/k |
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Jon Gardiner, Photographer
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Durham | NC | USA | Posted: 8:06 PM on 11.19.10 |
| ->> Here in the press room at Duke basketball with Liddy right now. He says if Jason's "informative" tally hits 100 he'll stop being mean to people... |
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David Seelig, Photographer
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Hailey | ID | USA | Posted: 8:53 PM on 11.19.10 |
| ->> When I started shooting sports I had not shot outdoors with chrome film. I had bee a rock and roll photographer. It took me a little time to learn how to expose the film properly. Everything takes time but the one thing that blows me away is respect the older guys that have been doing this a long time. A few are bitter but most and all the SI guys I have known have been first class and helped when they can. Great Post. |
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Pat Lovell, Photographer
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Bloomington | IN | US | Posted: 9:15 PM on 11.19.10 |
->> ->> Here in the press room at Duke basketball with Liddy right now. He says if Jason's "informative" tally hits 100 he'll stop being mean to people...
well, looks like Chuck may have to rethink his bet...it's at 101 now. LOL
Jason, I'm from the Pittsburgh area originally, next time I'm back for a Steeler game (as a fan) we need to get together and have a beer. |
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Mark Loundy, Photo Editor
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San Jose | CA | USA | Posted: 10:04 PM on 11.19.10 |
->> Jason,
Don't worry about the questions. As long as you do a reasonable amount of independent research first, there is no such thing as a stupid question.
A lot of the top photographers I came up with had some personality characteristics in common. They were, cocky, arrogant and thick-skinned. Eventually, the cockiness and arrogance turned into confidence and professional generosity. But while they were young (including me and a few other SS members who shall go nameless,) they were total pains in the ass.
Don't worry about it. You're already outgrowing it.
I'm thankful to all of my older colleagues who overlooked my rookie naivete and patiently taught me my profession.
--Mark |
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Ron Hawkes, Photographer, Photo Editor
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Rockland | ME | USA | Posted: 10:37 PM on 11.19.10 |
->> Jason, I have been a member here since 2003 and have never read a more important post on this amazing site.
Thank you for the post
Ron |
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Shirley Pefley, Photographer
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Los Altos Hills | CA | USA | Posted: 10:54 PM on 11.19.10 |
| ->> Good stuff. Thanks for sharing your experience. I think I'll keep a copy in my camera bag. |
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Jim Colburn, Photo Editor, Photographer
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McAllen | TX | USA | Posted: 11:51 PM on 11.19.10 |
->> Don't beat yourself up too much.
Everyone makes the same mistakes with numerous small variations. If everyone paid attention to their elders all of the time there'd be no new music, or srt, or recipes, and we'd all still be sitting around in animal skins complaining that nothing ever changes. |
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Chuck Liddy, Photographer
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Durham | NC | USA | Posted: 12:20 AM on 11.20.10 |
->> Gardiner is going to be a comedian in his next life......which is going to be VERY soon!!! 8)
and just for the record, I am nice to everyone.
114 informatives!!! I think this is an all time new record and justly so!!! |
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Chuck Liddy, Photographer
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Durham | NC | USA | Posted: 12:45 AM on 11.20.10 |
| ->> @jim. exactly WHAT kind of animal skins DO you wear anyway. inquiring SS minds WANT to know. |
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Mark J. Terrill, Photographer
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Simi Valley | CA | USA | Posted: 1:04 AM on 11.20.10 |
->> "They were, cocky, arrogant and thick-skinned. Eventually, the cockiness and arrogance turned into confidence and professional generosity. But while they were young (including me and a few other SS members who shall go nameless,) they were total pains in the ass."
Loundy,
Are you talking about me? (-: |
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Jason Heffran, Photographer
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Tarentum | PA | United States | Posted: 1:24 AM on 11.20.10 |
->> @ Chuck & Jon... Exactly what is the record??
Glad it made an impact. I was falling on the sword for a reason. If one person learns from what I've experienced and the realizations I've come to... it was worth it. I do realize that posting this may kill my career in sports photography in a traditional sense.
But, if you can't hit a curveball, swing at fastballs.
I'm amazed at the comments and my inbox right now. I guess honesty still has a place in life. |
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Kent Nishimura, Student/Intern, Photographer
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Honolulu | HI | USA | Posted: 2:50 AM on 11.20.10 |
| ->> Jason, thanks for sharing. Mahalo nui loa. |
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Jason Heffran, Photographer
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Tarentum | PA | United States | Posted: 4:40 PM on 11.21.10 |
->> @ Kent, Ron, Mark, David, Jim, Shirley, Ron, Jon, Brian, Chris, Chuck and others...
Not that I haven't put myself out there enough already, but I would love an honest perception of my work. I think that would make an appropriate closing to this thread. I've had a lot of emails that were complimentary, critical and constructive.
A ton of what I've shot is at http://heffran.smugmug.com, http://www.hsigallery.com or http://fb.hsiphoto.com (Facebook).
On this thread would be a great place, IMHO, to hear some honesty. I think that new guys avoid an honest review and get defensive when what we ask for is given.
P.S. Chuck, what happens if the "informative" reaches 200? LOL. Just kidding. Can't believe it got to 100. |
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Brad Mangin, Photographer
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Pleasanton | CA | USA | Posted: 7:15 PM on 11.21.10 |
->> Jason- it would be best if you had a link to a solidly edited portfolio. I just tried all three links (two of which required me to log in like a parent) and got nowhere. An actual portfolio for people to look at would be much better than having us wade through extraneous content on two different sites and Facebook.
Thanks. |
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Ethan Magoc, Student/Intern
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Erie | PA | United States | Posted: 7:23 PM on 11.21.10 |
->> Jason,
Figured I'd finally chime in here, as I was one of the first to welcome you to SS. Glad to see you've already come so far.
Why all the random HDR toning? It's become such a commonplace technique that I think you could do better. It's not generally needed on sports action photos either. Ends up making it cliche, in my opinion. But hey — if clients are buying, please ignore me!
What else are you looking for in the way of critique? First, I'd definitely try to set up a livebooks, Photoshelter or other equivalent high-end portfolio site. It's tough to deliver a quality evaluation of your work when the images are all over the place. Perhaps set up an SS gallery for a basic review?
Also, you may consider scrapping the equipment list page altogether or at least reworking some of it:
http://www.hsiphoto.com - "Notice how large the camera body is…" ... yikes.
Once again, your candor is much appreciated and invaluable for every new SS member. I reckon it could be posted right up there with Brad's secret handshake article. |
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Ethan Magoc, Student/Intern
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Erie | PA | United States | Posted: 7:25 PM on 11.21.10 |
| ->> Of course, Brad beat me to it. |
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Phil Hawkins, Photographer
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Fresno | ca | usa | Posted: 9:58 PM on 11.21.10 |
| ->> What Brad said +1. Do a little research on what guys who are making their living at this do for their websites. I dare say none has suffocating Google ads or are using SmugMug, or make you sign in just to look, etc... Your original post was obviously well received, but having looked at your "website(s)", I think you have taken 10 steps forward and 9 backward. No, more like 9.5 backward. Sorry to be brutal, but as long as you are turning over a new leaf, make getting a meaningful website your next priority. More to the point, one would think that with your background in web hosting, you would be in a position not to have to use SmugMug, Facebook, etc when displaying your work and that you would have seen enough quality photographers websites to know what to do and what NOT to do. What are we all missing with your emotional "awakening", then seeing such a horribly amateurish web site? With all due, sincere respect, these dots definitely do not connect. |
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Jason Heffran, Photographer
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Tarentum | PA | United States | Posted: 11:32 PM on 11.21.10 |
->> That's a good point. Never really thought to separate the portfolio from the rest. Always took the "Look at everything and let me know..." approach. I didn't see too many photographers showing their worst "keepers".
(Brad, you don't count - you're stuff is amazing and any 25 images you pull at random will set you apart. That's why we/I look up to you.)
I guess I've focused on selling product (HDR works here and I have no idea why) instead of building a portfolio. Probably stems from the lack of knowing what to put in one. I did "HDR toning" for a friend on a poster and it took off. Might as well ride the wave...
As far as the equipment list, I totally agree. But, it's won more than a few jobs for me by convincing a soccer league with 60 teams that they should ask for it. Basically, a blatant way to keep the new GWC from taking business.
Shameful, but I do use the "big lens" as a sales tool :-)
The responses (all of them) are much appreciated. |
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Brad Mangin, Photographer
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Pleasanton | CA | USA | Posted: 11:42 PM on 11.21.10 |
->> Jason- you need to decide who your clients and target market are. If you are trying to impress the parents, etc. then you do not need any feedback from us. They will be easily impressed by equipment lists and pictures of the crappy Pirates. Do your thing. But- if you are looking to become a professional sports photojournalist who gets PAID gigs to shoot ballgames, etc. then you need a portfolio. The reason you do not have a portfolio and the reason you do not know how to put one together all goes back to your first post that started this thread.
I have no idea where you want to go- and it is none of my business on a Sunday night- but you need to decide. Otherwise- just keep doing your thing and I will not bother you. But you asked for help... |
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TD Paulius, Photographer
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Orland Park | IL | USA | Posted: 11:46 PM on 11.21.10 |
| ->> Jason: Do you really want to use Facebook to provide access to your portfolio, for in doing so can you be giving Facebook and nonexclusive license to use your images? More importantly, if you are going to use a song from Styx, "Renegade" as either a lead-in or background music, for the DVDs that you are selling for your youth league(s), have you in fact licensed the use of that music from Styx? |
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Mike Anzaldi, Photographer
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Oak Park | IL | USA | Posted: 1:27 AM on 11.22.10 |
| ->> that love affair didn't last long |
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Mark J. Terrill, Photographer
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Simi Valley | CA | USA | Posted: 3:51 AM on 11.22.10 |
->> Jason,
What my friend Brad said. |
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Brian Blanco, Photographer
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Tampa / Sarasota | FL | USA | Posted: 8:08 AM on 11.22.10 |
->> Jason,
If you want to keep the equipment list, HDR, huge game galleries, parent sign-in, etc., then I guess that's fine if that's what works for your print sales business (marketed under the "HSI" business name). BUT, like Brad said, if you want people in the editorial world to take you seriously you may want to think about a completely separate, tightly-edited and professional looking portfolio.
In fact, you'd be well-advised to work your SEO so that if I Google your name, that HSI website doesn't even come up. Not only does the "I have a big white lens" thing not work in the editorial world, it tends to be a HUGE red flag. It tells me that this person MAY be more of a "camera enthusiast" than a real shooter. I'm not an editor, but I often have to find shooters in other markets for my clients, and if I stumble across an equipment list on a shooter's website then I IMMEDIATELY click the back button.
Also, the HDR thing is another red flag that tends to tell me that this person may be using Photoshop actions to make up for a lack of skill. (I'm not suggesting that here, I'm speaking in broad terms). If you're going to have HDR in your portfolio, then you need to have a nice, tightly-edited portfolio filled with "real" photos that assures me right away that HDR is not a crutch. You see this a lot with wedding photographers who use cheesy Photoshop actions (like making everything B&W except for a single flower, adding a stupid frame, soft focus, etc... to make up for the fact that they shoot everything on "Green Square")
Also, on one of your websites, at the top of the home page is a picture of a big white Canon lens and the "Canon EOS" name and logo right next to your company name as if it's all part of the same logo. Unless you (or "HSI") are sponsored by Canon I'd suggest removing that immediately.
Look, I loved your first post and felt it was just about one of the most honest and helpful things I've seen someone share on this site, but, by your own admission, you have a long way to go, so you may want to find a local mentor. Airing some of this inexperience on such a public forum is going to make a first impression in the editorial world that you may have a hard time recovering from.
Asking questions is great. Getting feedback is great. Sharing mistakes is selfless... just don't over-share in front of editors from around the world who read this board. Pittsburgh is a big market with a lot of established shooters so you have to give editors a reason to hire you... and remove any reason why the shouldn't.
That said, again, I do wish you the best of luck. (Now go find a local mentor) |
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Jason Heffran, Photographer
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Tarentum | PA | United States | Posted: 10:09 AM on 11.22.10 |
->> All extremely good points. It further validates what I originally posted. The follow up comments may have come across different than what I actually was trying to say, but that can easily happen on message boards, emails, etc.
All the advice I ignored is WHY I am where I am today. That was my point. Since I never listened and thought I could blaze my own trail, I'm no longer dreaming of being a sports photojournalist. I joked with someone who sent me an email from this thread that I'd have to move or change my identity to have a realistic chance at that.
So I'm stuck, at least for the foreseeable future, in a mode of being focused on doing what I can to pay the bills. During this, I have to reset things and begin doing things the way that I should have been all along - if I would have taken heed to all the posts and advice. It's all proven to be true.
So the message that I hope stays at the center of this thread is that if another shooter has made an investment in equipment, etc - it doesn't mean ANYTHING if you don't learn and follow the rules before shouting, "I'm a photographer!" from the hilltops.
I've asked several people who I admire to be a mentor. I think that's important in any business. I've had them before and will echo that as another important thing that all aspiring photographers should do. It's not easy, though (in my experience). The ones that I've approached have declined since they were "too busy".
I will definitely follow that advice and continue to ask until I find one. It's also very true, and I understood this the second I published the first post, that laying out all of the mistakes I've made would be "career manslaughter". I know that based on the decisions I've made, which I hope others who have these goals don't, that I have to find a different way to earn a living in this business.
Showing my inexperience was the point. Had I listened a year ago, this may not be the case. But, even through this entire process - even the way the thread is ending - I've still gleaned some very valuable insight and stand behind why I originally posted.
The one thing I've learned to love about SS is how honest the responses are. There aren't many places where you can get honest and brutal (sometimes) advice. The world is full of BS.
I'm going to do the things that have been recommended. Building a website that is a portfolio, remedy certain things that I've been doing and continue to plug along. I can't tell you how much I do appreciate and value the feedback I've received. I still hope that this helps other new shooters avoid career-hindering mistakes and choices. Rome wasn't built in a day as previously mentioned... I made the fatal mistake of thinking it could be.
Time to follow my own advice and start listening and reading the posts and tips being offered up. Time to stop talking. I have some work to do on how I present myself as a photographer.
Thanks again for all the input and I hope the original intention of this thread remains the focus. Had I not posted any follow up comments, it wouldn't have gotten off track. But in the end I think they just serve to validate how much time can be wasted when one doesn't heed sound advice.
God bless.
J |
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Clark Brooks, Photo Editor, Photographer
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Urbana | IL | USA | Posted: 11:02 AM on 11.22.10 |
->> Jason,
If you are serious about being an editorial photographer, my tip is don't put HDR photos in your portfolio. As an editor, I and most editors want to know what you can produce on assignment isn't going to faked, overly manipulated or compromise any ethical standards (if you don't know what those are do a search on the message boards or as Brian suggest find a local photojournalist to mentor you and ask them). In the editorial world you gotta keep it real. Over processed/HDR work simply tells me (and others) your work can't be trusted.
Brian wrote and no one will be able to say it better: ""I have a big white lens" thing not work in the editorial world, it tends to be a HUGE red flag. It tells me that this person MAY be more of a "camera enthusiast" than a real shooter. "
Stop here if you don't have a real interest in developing a portfolio or being an editorial shooter.
As both Brian and Brad wrote, you need a "TIGHTLY EDITED" group of photos. Asking a mentor or pro to look through 40,000 images was another novice mistake. Add that one to you list :-) Here is my suggestions to follow to create a serious portfolio. Keep in mind this is and will not be an overnight project if you want to do it right.
Your first step is to do a search in the message board for threads for tips on how to edit or create one. Next, find and view the sites of 100 or more respected sports photographers or photojournalists from around the world. Pay attention to details - editors do - especially those like cropping, unique angles of view, expressions and emotions of the subjects, composition, clean backgrounds and peak action or moment. Don't skip this step because you will waste not only a lot of your time but of those you will ask to critique your port in later steps.
Now start step 3. Go through your body of work and find your 10 best images that will compete with what you have viewed. Crop, tone, and caption them to current journalist standards (don't know what they are? Do a search on the message boards). Then put them into a reasonably professional looking gallery online. Now you are ready to contact five to eight photographers and politely beg, coerce or ask them to give you a critique. Try to find photographers who's work you respect or have been in the photojournalism industry for a decade or more. SS is a wonderful resource to help you find those folks.
Any image that gets overwhelming nods from the collective opinion of your reviewers are your keepers. Everything else goes back to the archive and you repeat step 3 again until you have 15-20 solid images. Just because a mummy or daddy bought an 8x10 does make an image great. During this process, you will notice that your shooting 'style' will mature. If all works as it should, images you created a year or two or three ago, will look like crap to you.
Good luck. I'm looking forward to seeing the end product of this process should you go through with it.
My final recommendation to you and other new members:
Look before you start post.
Before you start a new thread keep in mind there are 8 years worth of very informative messages here that will answer nearly question you might have at this stage in your career or membership cycle. Take the time look through those first and discuss the subject with your mentor or peers before posting so that you at least understand the history or rationale behind the responses in those post. Additionally, you'll get a feel for how to ask your question without the risk of being lightly toasted and roasted or receiving what you might feel are degrading responses. Not that older, wiser members really mean you psychological harm, there is the expectation as a member of a professional community you have done your homework first before posting. |
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Chuck Liddy, Photographer
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Durham | NC | USA | Posted: 12:56 PM on 11.22.10 |
| ->> Jason, more good advice from the folks above. I think the most important thing anyone said is the part about using HDR in a journalism setting. It would be unethical. Take this info and heed it. |
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Jason Heffran, Photographer
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Tarentum | PA | United States | Posted: 1:22 PM on 11.22.10 |
->> Clark, thanks for taking the time to put together such an in-depth answer. And, yeah... bonehead move saying, "Go dig through a gazillion images..." Sorry about that one.
Chuck, I agree with you. I've learned more in this thread than I expected. Thanks for all the input. Definitely going to take heed.
Not sure if going the editorial route is part of the plan, but I do get the point about HDR. It's a fad and I've read a lot of the posts here about manipulated images and the backlash.
Thanks again to everyone. I'm sure this thread is about done. |
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Joe Cavaretta, Photographer
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Ft Lauderdale | FL | USA | Posted: 4:00 PM on 11.22.10 |
| ->> I can't let Liddy get in the last word |
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Micah Escamilla, Photographer
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Calimesa | CA | United States | Posted: 4:06 PM on 11.22.10 |
->> Not to sound like a broken record, but thanks so much for your letter, Jason.
I've been a SS member for just over a year, read the forums almost daily, but I think I've commented on less than five topics. I often wonder if my lack of "participation" is lame and selfish...but really I am here to learn, not to teach others. I'm not experienced enough to teach 99% of those that are here. Thank you for reminding me WHY I come and remain mostly silent, and for letting me know that's okay :)
And to all SS members...thank you for making this site a community that feels like "home" enough for a fellow photographer like Jason to admit his mistakes. Cheers. |
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