You have all the talent in the world. You’ve landed some great gigs. You are the hardest working photographer you know. But you can’t figure out why you haven’t “arrived”.
Well, first thing’s first. Have we ever really “arrived”? I have been at it for more than a decade. I can make a case for some measure of success, but I can say for sure that I haven’t “arrived” at anything but a little more freedom, a better work ethic, and better vision. And that’s keeping me going.
Second thing. This stuff of course all matters deeply–the talent, the gigs, the hard work – I’ve talked about those before as “get in the door” sorts of qualities. But you know what else matters that’s rarely discussed? You’ve gotta be in the game–not just AT the game, but IN the game. For years.
It’s my personal experience and the experience of many “successful” artists I know that nothing of real substance ever happens fast enough. We’re impatient bastards, all of us. A career is not made from one picture or one campaign, or even three or five. It’s not your first exhibition that gets you the bump you want to get, it’s your 10th or your 100th.
I can’t say for sure what “having arrived” is, but I know that part of it is staying on the long-ass curvy road for a good long while. Better love what you’re doing.
If you aren’t a photographer primarily because it’s what you love, then success – however you define it – will never be tangible and real.
But if it is what you love, then bear in mind – no matter how hard things are, or how much of a struggle – that anyone who ever succeeded, did so because they refused to give up. (No matter how crazy or stupid or stubborn everyone else thought they were.)
Staying on your path, despite all obstacles, doubts and fear… That’s success.
Thank you, Chase!
Great post. I’ve said the same to photographers for years.
Someone once asked me after many years “in the game” when I did I know I was successful. It was a great question and I thought for a while and answered “When you know you can say ‘no’ ‘”. Too many photographers lack the gene in their DNA to walk away from a bad job. And when you’re starting out, it can be even harder. I’ve never regretted saying no to a bad deal.
You’re dead on in saying that getting there isn’t a “flash” but more like a long exposure.
“Better love what you’re doing.”
Exactly. You soooooo get it.