The Journey to Becoming a Professional Photographer: An INTJ's Path

Becoming a professional photographer is a journey of continuous learning, improvement, and passion. For me, this journey has been both challenging and rewarding. I started my photography business as a side hustle, dedicating hours each week to honing my craft. Despite the occasional skepticism, I have found my passion and continue to pursue it with zeal.

My Photography Journey

As a relative newcomer to the world of photography, my path was anything but straightforward. I purchased my first camera over two years ago and have since invested countless hours into improving my skills. My weekly schedule typically includes 50-60 hours of photography, on top of my 9-5 job, amounting to hundreds of thousands of shots taken. This dedication has led me to upgrade my equipment to professional level, ensuring that my work is of the highest quality.

My interest in photography is deeply rooted in my background as a writer. I frequently transfer the creativity and literary elements I strive for in writing into visual form. Concepts such as composition, balance, and lighting are not just technical aspects but also creative expressions that I find thrilling and fulfilling. My goal is to make my photography as literate as possible, ensuring that every image tells a story and captures the essence of the subject.

Early Experiences

The first time I held the camera to my face, I was instantly hooked. My early work may have been far from perfect, but it was my passion that drove me to push past the limitations and strive for excellence. While I may look back at some of my early photos with cringe today, they were a genuine expression of my artistic vision at the time. The constant quest for improvement is what fuels my passion, and as an INTJ, my passions can become obsessions.

Validation and Growth

One significant moment that solidified my desire to remain a professional photographer was a conversation with Joe del Tufo, a highly respected photographer in our community. During a music festival, we met, and he remarked, “I saw you were here and said to myself ‘Oh shit, Kevin’s here.’” This was perhaps the highest compliment I could have received, especially coming from Joe, who is known for his critical eye and high standards. This validation not only reaffirmed my capabilities but also provided the motivation to continue growing.

Awarding Fuel to the Fire

Another pivotal moment came when my then-girlfriend saw Joe's admiration for my work. This recognition not only boosted my confidence but also reaffirmed my girlfriend's respect for my dedication to photography. Although we eventually broke up shortly after, the positive influence of this validation continued to drive my passion and commitment to the craft.

In conclusion, my journey to becoming a professional photographer has been a transformative experience. The constant pursuit of perfection and the validation from respected figures like Joe have solidified my passion. For an INTJ like myself, passions can become obsessions, and photography is no exception. I may never take the “perfect” photo, but the journey to that elusive goal is what drives me to continuously improve and refine my craft.

Through my dedication and passion, I hope to share my journey and inspire others to follow their dreams in the world of professional photography.