From Darkroom to Digital Mastery: A 35-Year Journey in Photography for Thomas Dean
Can you please share a brief history about your photography business? What motivated you to start this venture?
I was fortunate enough to have grown up with a black & white darkroom in our family home. I started shooting weddings with film cameras in high school. I have been a photographer now for 35 years.
What kind of challenges did you face when building up your portfolio or setting up your studio? How did you overcome these challenges?
As digital photography became more & more mainstream, I didn’t know the magnitude or implications of all the implications surrounding long term processes during which time I spent 7 years as a traveling yoga teacher and photographer using multiple computers & hard drives in which my digital media found itself often scattered & duplicated on multiple catalogs. Last year, I spent over 6 months relentlessly & meticulously consolidating, renaming, key wording, and chronologically ordering hundreds of thousands of my photographs.
Could you describe the early days of your business? What were the initial reactions and feedback you received?
As I found the art & science of photography to be magical, almost that of alchemy, my passion for photography was unsurpassed. At the end of the day, it mattered not that of others opinions but more that I was so compelled of the possibilities and results of what was possible with my cameras & lights. Of course, it’s always nice when a client responds to their photos in a positive and joyful manner. I do photography because I was born to be a photographer.
How did you manage to grow and expand your business? What strategies did you use to attract more clients?
I have always reinvested profits back into the business. I love technology and all the gear that comes with photography, it is endless joy. I feel that when I talk about being a photographer others can’t help but feel the passion and love I have for it and this often results in landing that next project.
How has your business performed financially over the years? Can you share some milestones or achievements in terms of revenue?
As money is not the motivating factor in my photography business, I do not measure my success accordingly. Rather, if the quality of the photographs I deliver are meeting my very own expectations and providing the overall results I have come to expect, then I know I am successful. I have provided my photography services for clients globally. I have been compensated on some very high end projects that earned me a years salary with only a few weeks of work.
What are some key lessons you've learned along your entrepreneurial journey? Is there anything you would do differently if given a chance?
Although I am generally overly organized, early on there was no road map to the absolute best and most efficient methods. As I researched the subject, there wasn’t a consensus on the subject. I did what I thought at the time would be best for me, and then years later realized I had to drastically update & revamp my procedures. I am happy to say I have found what works the absolutely best for me.
Are there any tools or software that have been particularly useful in managing and growing your business? Give us a list of what you use in your kit.
Here are the tools I use in my day-to-day operations:
- Adobe Suite
- Invoice Ninja
- SmugMug
- Nik software
- ON1 Effects
- Topaz labs
- Skylum luminar
- JPEGmini,
Could you recommend any books, resources, or mentors that have significantly influenced your business journey?
Check out Deke McClelland and Mark Wallace.
What advice would you give to budding entrepreneurs who wish to start their own photography business?
Focus on learning and knowing the art and craft of photography itself before selling the service. I think there are far too many people selling the idea without knowing how.
With over 35 years in the industry, Thomas Dean has explored all aspects of photography and videography. His work spans from destination weddings in Hawaii to major brands like Coca Cola and iconic celebrities. As a certified yoga teacher and nature enthusiast, he brings passion and creativity to every project, always striving to deliver visually stunning, high-quality work.
About Thomas
- Country: United States
Specializes in
- Advertising Photography, Aerial Photography, Automotive Photography, Commercial Photography, Event Photography, Sports Photography, Wedding Photography
Quote
Focus on learning and knowing the art and craft of photography itself before selling the service.