Local photographer Brian Farrell tells you what you need to do to be a successful photographer. “All you need is enthusiasm, a will to learn, and practice, practice practice,” says the Northwold resident who often takes photos of birds in Golden Harvest Park. Farrell says that a wannabe photographer must go for walks, or take photos of items of interest.
For instance, if you like animals, you should go to a zoo and take photos of animals there, or if you like moto sport, take photos of moto racing. Farrell recommends studying photography for one year. But if you do not have enough money, you can teach yourself. When marketing yourself, the internet is not that effective, he says. Rather use word of mouth and make a portfolio. “Network, rather than advertise,” he recommends.
When you are offered work, do not take any project as too small for you to do. A photographer does not earn much money, but becomes rich in life experiences, Farrell adds. “I have met Madiba,” he boasts. “I have flown over Mossel Bay. There are experiences that are only possible because you are a photographer.” Farrell’s favourite part of photography is mingling with people and sharing knowledge with photographers and wannabe photographers. He prefers to shoot photographs in manual mode.
Details: Brian Farrell pix@eject.co.za or 071 679 0075.
