What do you do if you want to start a photography career without a formal education?

There is no ‘right’ way to learn photography. The best way is to take photos. Lots of photos. Then look at them. No matter if you’re photographing on your camera or on your phone, transfer them to a computer so you can look at them larger and with more detail. Make notes of things you like in your images and see if you can replicate it. Begin to collect inspiration and assign yourself a daily/weekly assignment to practice. This can be a variety of composition ideas, locations, storytelling, color etc. The idea is to practice, practice, practice and then review. This is how you will see your growth and hone your creative eye.

Taking photos is the best way of learning, then the internet has LOADS of short courses and training for all the areas you feel a bit out of reach (I'd even say any business course would be actually more important to take first than the ones about taking photographs). There's not one way of doing things, there are many, you just have to find which one is the best for you. Also take inspiration in literally every other field (fashion, painting...)

Embarking on a photography career without formal education requires self-motivation and a commitment to continuous learning. While formal training expedites learning, self-directed education offers flexibility. Aspiring photographers study through online resources, workshops, and mentorship programs, focusing on mastering technical skills like lighting and composition. Building a strong portfolio showcases talent and attracts clients, while seeking guidance from experienced photographers provides insights and networking opportunities. Despite challenges, staying updated on industry trends, investing in quality equipment, and refining skills are crucial for success.

Begin by understanding the technical aspects of photography. Learn about exposure, aperture, shutter speed, ISO, lighting, and composition. Familiarize yourself with photo editing software like Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom. These skills are crucial for post-processing your images.

Knowing the nuts and bolts of photography is the first “business skill” you need. Start with an online Photography 101 course until you master the basics. Always. Be. Learning.

Create a diverse portfolio showcasing your best work. Include different genres such as landscape, portrait, product, or event photography. Quality matters more than quantity. Select your strongest images to demonstrate your skills and style.

Whether it is a digital or hardcopy portfolio, it is always great to showcase your work with some of your best works but also some of your worst ones as well, everyone will have their own respective opinions on your work and you will be surprised by how many people like the photos you take even when you don't expect it to exceed. As long as you're consistent with updating your portfolio or having specific ones presented depending on your targeted audience, make sure to keep in mind that your portfolio represents you as a creative artist and person.

Especializarte en un campo concreto esencial. Enfocarte en la calidad sobre la cantidad; selecciona tus mejores imágenes que demuestren tu estilo y versatilidad. Es mejor ser muy bueno y muy crack realizando bodas que hacer muy bien distintos trabajos como bodegones, eventos y retratos.

Use the everyday products, locations, events, people you know, etc to practice and build your diverse portfolio. And put it to test, whichever style gives you positive feedback try to master that.

As i always suggest attend photography meetups, workshops, and events. Connect with other photographers, models, and clients. Networking can lead to collaborations, job opportunities, and valuable insights.

A good way to network for business perspective is to do some projects for free or cheaper rates then others at start. Other than this, going to different photowalks, meet-ups, workshops might be helpful. And obviously collaborating with people in your niche might help you to learn from their experiences.

Follow other photographers who's work you enjoy or whose niche is similar to yours. Surrounding yourself with other influences of great work will help to elevate and inspire your own work.

Sometimes doing small jobs at reduced rates when you are starting out helps build valuable connections and gain future clients. Also do not be afraid to reach out to people who are established in the field already for advice. Most photographers would be happy to help!

Follow other photographers, practice, watch YouTube videos, if you have photographer friends try to collaborate so you’d learn more.

Three years assisting is infinitely more vocational than a first class BA. A degree is inspiring and educational, but it won't get you a career. You have to get a camera in your hands and shoot shoot shoot, no excuses. Assist when you're not shooting. Actually call people on the phone to make contacts. Most important rule for longevity: if someone is making money through your photos, they need to pay, regardless of your experience level. You can shoot so many other things without being exploited that it's a no brainer, and you'll get better photography out of it.

Take advantage of online platforms like Skillshare. These platforms offer courses, tutorials, and workshops taught by industry professionals. Learn at your own pace and from anywhere in the world.

Photography is an art form, and practice is essential. Keep shooting regularly. Experiment with different techniques, lighting conditions, and subjects. The more you practice, the better you’ll become.

Practice a lot and learn your limitations - this is key in order to uncover the areas you need to improve. When you find it difficult to progress alone, seek a mentor's help who can guide your progress 1-on-1. Choose someone at a career level where you wish to be in about 5 years (yet still being approachable).

I agree. I constantly push myself to try new sets, new techniques, and shoot new products. Shooting regularly improve my creativity, and give me new ideas for my clients.

Practica sin descanso. La práctica es fundamental para dominar la fotografía. Supérate con diferentes proyectos y encargos para desafiar tus habilidades. Intenta fotografiar en diversas condiciones de iluminación, experimenta con nuevas técnicas o enfócate en un género específico como retratos, paisajes o fotografía callejera. Cuanto más fotografíes, más desarrollarás tu propio estilo y confianza."

One of the great ways to practicing photography for different perspective is trying AtoZ challange. In my experience, it helps you too see the world through so many perspective which eventually will help you when needed.

Stay updated with industry trends and technological advancements. Be open to learning new techniques and adapting to changes in the field.

Según mi experiencia estar atento a las nuevas tecnologías es clave para no quedarse desfasado. Los estilos fotográficos y las exigencias de los clientes evolucionan con los a?os. Si tu no lo haces los clientes dejaran de llamar a tu puerta.

The best education you could ever get is assisting. There you will learn the ins and outs of running a successful or in some cases and unsuccessful business. Nothing can replace assistingin a studio.

If I were starting over in the photography business, I would go to work for several brands or agencies operating in the space you're drawn to photograph. Get your feet wet with how the business works and how photographers are hired, and learn what works and what doesn't while building your network. Be honest and open to doing anything. Meanwhile, hone your photography craft. You have to be nice all the time. The industry is very small, and word travels faster than your Instagram account.

...AS MUCH AS GIFTED YOU ARE ...THE KNOWLEDGE OF ART HISTORY IS A MUST AND WILL HELP YOU TO BECOME AN AUTHENTIC PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHER...I RECOMMAND THE LOUVRE TO START / ...OTHERWISE,YOU WILL MISS THE ESSENTIAL...WE LEARN FROM THE MASTERS TO EXPRESS SOMETHING ELSE AND GET INSPIRED AT THE SAME TIME .THE MORE YOU SEE,THE BETTER YOU WILL SHOOT .

The best way is to start exploring, yourself and the camera you currently have. Put yourself in situations where you feel if this makes you happy, if it triggers you further