Interesting comments by Alec Soth and David Hilliard

Michael Werner:

In your opinion and experience, how can emerging photographers evaluate themselves as ready to start promoting their works and seek broader exposure for their photographs? What is one vital action you would recommend photographers undertake to find their audience, be included in exhibitions, and gain professional representation?


Alec Soth:

What I like about this question is that you acknowledge that emerging photographers often aren’t ready to start promoting themselves. I find it aggravating that so many young photographers busy themselves with self-promotion when they should just be taking pictures. Let’s use the analogy of the young novelist. When you are writing your first novel, you don’t try to get it published based on a single chapter. First you need to write the book. Too many photographers are shopping for galleries and publishers with unfinished portfolios.

It is a long process getting the first project together. And it often leads to failure. Not only does the novelist need to finish the first book, she might need to write two or three before she hits the target. But here is the thing – when the work is good, you will know it. And when you believe in the work, you can promote it. In the end, good work will find an audience.

Michael Werner:

How did it come about that you achieved the status of successful, professional photographer? What steps were involved in reaching your level of success?


David Hilliard:

Work, lots of energy and a blind faith that what I was making mattered not only to myself but to others as well. I knew that I had to get the work out there. That’s all I’ve ever wanted to do; make my imagery and make a living doing it. I worked, and continue to work very hard. I make, I fail, I make, I succeed. It’s a kind of battle. But through it all I’m learning and finding inspiration. And I might also suggest building a large skill set. Make fine art, commercial art, editorial art, teach, assist, etc, etc. Do it all. It keeps you going and in the end I truly believe that it can inform aspects of your work.