Originally uploaded by Morten Årstad Foto

Bo of The Fly Force shows how it’s done

Originally uploaded by Morten Årstad Foto

Another take on my free press project - publishing info and photos live (repost - original during event):

A bunch of photographers are gathered at Pakhuis de Zwijger - organized by Streetlab and presented by Farid Benmbarek to find out how to pay the rent in a time where everyone seems to be a photographer.

Guiding this evening are Joost Vandebrug (photographer), Danielle van Ark (photographer), Elza Jo (photographer), Peter Bas Mensink (editor GUP) and Eric Elenbaas and Cynthia Fidder (Eric Elenbaas Agency)

Fullscreen slideshow

Summary: The professionals agree; being a photographer will require a lot of work before you can make a living of your efforts. Creating your own signature style will help you on the way. Strategically taking on some work for free can help you get spotted, although this is more true for Fashion and Art than for Journalistic photography. One should decide for oneself if joining a union or getting and agent helps to reach your goals. Also in contacting potential clients consider the fit between your work and their target audience. How much you can ask for your services remains vague. It depends on how well known you are, the assignment and the uniqueness of your photos.

Thank you everyone for the inspiring input and a very nice evening. (Please let me know your thoughts on my free press concept and the pictures).