What do you do?

Do you have an ‘elevator speech’?

I’ve just been in London for the AOP Awards (three of my wonderful clients were shortlisted which was very gratifying.)

The last time I was here, I ran a workshop and at the beginning, I asked the photographers present to introduce themselves.

‘I’m a fashion photographer’ said one, squirming with embarrassment at being asked.

Another gave us a self-effacing tongue-tied tome which did nothing to elicit confidence in me.

And yet these photographers were experienced, talented, and shooting regularly.

There will be times at all levels of your career that you need to confidently describe what you do, and quite frankly saying what you shoot is not going to cut it. (There are millions of fashion photographers in the world.)

Being self-effacing isn’t either. (Please don’t do that- it’s very unattractive.)

If you want to succinctly sum up what you do in a meaningful way, consider describing how your work makes people feel, or share your purpose.

EG.

• I make images and motion that capture calm energy.
• I create visual stories with mystery and intrigue.
• I show the truth.
• I make the everyday astonishing.
• I capture pure raw joy.

How much more inspiring!

I kid you not- some photographers I’ve worked with have been hired on the basis of a response like this.

What do you do?