Today we’d like to introduce you to Mel Bean

Mel, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?

My career as a photographer was largely on accident. I started as a model- which again, totally on accident. I was bartending at the time and intended on going back to nursing school when a photographer reached out to work with me. More photographers saw me in his portfolio, so it grew from there. Eventually, I got tired of being in front of the lens, and wanted more creative control. So I started shooting, and took to it well. The rest is history.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?

Oh no, it definitely has not been, and I don’t think it will ever be. Freelance is tough. Maybe photographers signed to agencies have it easier. The biggest struggle is the chaotic schedule and lack of salary. You really have to plan for slow months and not spend like crazy on the good months. I think the self-doubt along the way has been such a struggle for me. Like, on the months I’m slow, I feel dread and like I’m failing sometimes, and the months I make a lot of money, I’m on top of the world. It’s a weird feeling haha. That said, this year has been quite profitable, so on the slow months I’ve taken the time to rest and recuperate and don’t feel as anxious.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?

I am a full-time photographer who specializes in corporate and ballet photography, but I also work with families. I also run photo adventures all over the world for other photographers and that has been very fulfilling as well. I think I am most proud of my ability to connect with my clients and bring out a more authentic side of them in the photographs. I have a great reputation and work hard at maintaining that reputation.

Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?

Oh man. I don’t know. There is so much. Learn the marketing and business side of photography. That is just as, if not more important than building the artistry of your work. I’ve known so many great photographers who struggle to make a living because they don’t work on the business side of their photography.

Pricing:

• This is tough because it depends on what type of photography.
• My headshots start at $295, with day rates starting at $2500 and go up depending on details. I’d say I’m on the mid-level of pricing

Contact Info:

• Website: https://PhotoMAB.com
• Instagram: Photo.mab