Four years ago this January, I was trying to find my footing on boggy, uncertain ground. I left my full time job at the end of 2017 to focus on my photography business. My life in equestrian media looked glamorous from the outside, with frequent international travel and easy access to the sport’s most elite level. But I was burnt out by working for other people who underdelivered, for giving all of my time and personal life over to jobs that fed a goal I ultimately didn’t benefit from.
So after 16+ years as a journalist, then editor, then photojournalist/editor/you name it for many equestrian media sources, I walked away. That first winter was hard and slow as I tripped over rocks and stepped into unseen deep spots. I moved from Florida to Virginia. I said yes to every inquiry that came my way. I worked for almost nothing just to get my name out there. But slowly, I found better ground. And since then I have emphatically met so many of the goals I set for myself that first winter as my own “brand.” Four years have gone by in the blink of an eye.
With the turn of this new year, I’ve been thinking that it’s time to start writing again. But this time, it’s for myself, and whomever wants to turn up to read this. In four short years as a full-time entrepreneur, I’ve learned a lot, not only about how to run photoshoots and how to take nice photos, but how to run a business, how to lead, and how to treat other people who stand next to you, and for you, for many hours ringside.
That’s what hit home for me the most last year, as the competition photography side of my business grew and a steady stream of aspiring photographers approached me to ask not only for work, but for advice on all of the above topics. When I replied they consistently said that I was the only one who took the time to respond to them, which is discouraging at best, and indicative of industry-wide close-mindedness at worst.
So while I can and very well might wax on about shooting style, equipment, and how to get that perfect black background portrait, this small corner of the internet will peel back the curtain on the things that I’ve watched other photographers try and hide. I'm writing this for, and speaking directly to my equestrian photographer colleagues.
If you know me, you know that I’ll keep it interesting. Welcome!
Ph. ©Alison Green for EG Photos