When old guards don’t matter anymore
Recently, I attended a talk by a few photographers. Among those presented was a photographer whose name was once synonymous with “celebrity”, “A-list” and “high-profile”. 10 years ago, this photographer was very sought after by major international publications. But about 5 years ago, his name was hardly hanging off the lips of the industry anymore.
At the talk, this particular photographer talked a lot. It felt as though he was trying to make up for lost time. The time when he was forgotten, he had the chance now to show that he is still relevant.
I turned to a friend beside me, and told her: “That’s an old guard trying to stay relevant”.
By now, I’m sure some of you will know who I am talking about. It doesn’t matter, and I will stand by my words. The only reason I don’t want to name names is because, this scenario can apply to not just photographers in Singapore, but elsewhere, too.
Photography is like a fling. One day, she may like you but when she sees someone more exciting, you are dull and drabby all of a sudden. The industry isn’t forgiving. Once you are seen as “not trendy”, you’ll be forgotten. Sure, your name will pop up once in a while, but people will just be asking “So what is he doing now?”
That’s when you know, you’re an old guard.
You’ll still have friends in the industry, and they’ll still refer you jobs ever so often. Whether is it out of pity or do they really appreciate your skills is one thing, but you’re not in the limelight anymore.
So, how do some photographers prevent themselves from getting out of fashion?
1) Constantly revamping yourself is one method. Changing the way you shoot, each time better than the last, impress people and keep them guessing what miracle you will do next. The only constant you should have, is to deliver good, great work.
2) Be honest. Really. People know when you are lying or being insincere. And if you lie to someone or give them face value, chances are, they are doing the same back to you. Whether you want to do business, or do business and make a friend, is just a lie away. A friend will be there at your funeral. A business associate probably wouldn’t. Unless, you owe him money.
3) Aim further, higher, but stay grounded. In the pursuit of becoming “famous”, some people may resort to unscrupulous means and that may also mean collateral damage to the people around you. Stay grounded, be open to opinions, but stay by your principles.
I could probably go on and on, but I feel that I should stop. After all, I am only 27. Not experienced enough to be an old guard, but I have seen the rise and fall of giants to give my 2 cents worth.
-
ohxela liked this
-
missmidori reblogged this from gohleonard and added:
an “old guard”...staying relevant...industry. This...
-
missmidori liked this
-
gohleonard posted this
