Turn Unpaid Gigs into Valuable Opportunities with Shane Wilkie

#498 In this episode of the podcast, I chat with BPP Community
Member Shane Wilkie, who transitioned from photographing
skateboarding to Hockey and sports photography and commercial
work while focusing on emotional storytelling. Shane shares his
experiences capturing university events, the emotional depth he
aims to achieve in his photos, and the impact of his volunteer
work on his career. He also discusses the importance of seeking
constructive feedback and the enriching journey of creating art
that resonates emotionally with viewers.

THE BIG IDEAS



Embrace Emotional Storytelling: Focus on capturing
photographs that evoke deep emotions and tell compelling
stories. Your images should invite viewers to feel and imagine
beyond the frame. 


Build Confidence Through Practice: Consistent practice
in varied environments helps you become more comfortable and
proficient, leading to stronger, more impactful photos. 


Learn from Unpaid Opportunities: Volunteering or taking
unpaid photography assignments can provide invaluable
experience, grow your network, and enhance your skills while
building your portfolio. 


Constantly Seek Constructive Feedback: Constructive
criticism is vital in refining your craft. Engage with
photography communities and mentors to gain views and critiques
that will help you improve.



PHOTOGRAPHY ACTION PLAN
Focus on Emotional Storytelling: Spend time
conceptualizing the emotion you wish to convey before shooting. Pay
attention to your subjects' expressions, body language, and
surroundings.Build Your Confidence: Attend a variety of
events, from local sports games to community festivals, to practice
photographing different scenarios. Review your work critically,
identifying your strongest photos and understanding what made them
successful. Volunteer for Experience: Reach out to
local organizations, events, or non-profits that could benefit from
your photography services. Treat each assignment as a learning
experience and push your creative boundaries.Seek Constructive
Feedback: Join local photography clubs or online forums where
you can share your work and receive constructive criticism.
Approach experienced photographers for feedback and
mentorship. Upgrade Your Gear: Research and invest
wisely in cameras, lenses, and accessories that will enhance your
capabilities. Experiment with the settings and functions to fully
understand its capabilities, enabling you to use your gear
effectively and creatively.

RESOURCES:
Visit Shane Wilkie's Website - https://www.shanewilkie.com/
Follow Shane Wilkie on Instagram -
https://www.instagram.com/shanewilkie/


Learn What Camera Settings to Use in our free guide!
https://perfectcamerasettings.com/


Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at
www.DeliverPhotos.com


Connect with Raymond!


Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at
https://beginnerphotopod.com/group

Get your Photo Questions Answered on the show -
https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa

Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet -
https://perfectcamerasettings.com/




Thanks for listening & keep shooting!