Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Don Smalls III. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Don, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. What do you think it takes to be successful?

How can you be successful in the photography industry? Is it the expensive cameras ? Is it the expensive lenses, lighting or accessories ? Or is it the resources?

It’s the MENTAL!  While expensive cameras, lighting and accessories, play a part in being successful within this industry, the biggest factor behind being successful is the MENTAL. You have to be mentally strong if you want to be successful in this industry. You have to be able to accept that sometimes things are not going to go the way you want or envision. Some people may not like your work, and that is okay!  Photography is perspective; it’s subjective.  As long as you love your work and you’re confident, that’s all that matters. When it comes to getting that credential, sometimes you’re going to be told no. Figure out a way, that’s what you have to do as a creative. Find a way. The lighting may not be how you envisioned it to be, the weather may have changed, your camera may not be working. Things happens all the time that is out of your control. Once again, find a way. As long as you have the passion, confidence, an eye to create art and the ability to be mentally strong, you’re bound to do great things in this industry.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

My name is Don Smalls III also known as “D3 Photography”, and I am a 21 year old photographer from Long Island, New York. In May of 2019, my grandfather who was like my best friend, passed away unexpectedly. He left behind a Lumix FZ300 in which was used to start my photography journey. I began my journey in 2020 as covid shocked the entire world. As a kid with nothing to do but play videos games or sports in my backyard/side of the house, I wanted to find something else to do. That’s when I picked up the camera. My photography was not supposed to go this far, or at least I thought. This was just supposed to be a hobby, something for me to do when I was bored. Photography is my life now. It’s my passion and it’s what I love to do. I love to create art, I love to capture beautiful memories for people that last a lifetime. But most of all, I love to post my work, and show the world how I see it from my view. I may not be the best photographer on the planet, but that is what I strive to be. My motto is 1% better everyday. There’s always room to improve and grow.

We’d love to hear the story of how you built up your social media audience?

The way I built my audience on social media is pretty simple. Post. Post. Post. From the beginning of my career to even today, I try to make sure that I always post on my photography page. I do my best to make sure that it is active so that my audience can see consistency. That’s the advice I’d give to someone starting to build their presence on social media. Post as much as you can. The audience will grow. Just be patient, it takes time. Some post may not do as well as others, but DO NOT get discouraged.

Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?

I think the most effective strategy in growing my clientele is being vocal. Earlier in my journey I was very quiet. I waited for things to approach me. Now I am the approacher! I’ve learned in this industry that closed mouths don’t get fed. Just Ask! The worst someone can say is no and that’s okay! Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. If you see someone, talk to them. Don’t be shy. Connections are everything in this industry. Everyone knows everyone!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://iamd3photography.myportfolio.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/d3.photography_/profilecard/?igsh=cGlvcTlobDJpbHl4
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/don-smalls-iii-084461341?trk=contact-info

Image Credits

Don Smalls III (D3 Photography)