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

Hi Ed, thanks for joining us today. Let’s start with what makes profitability in your industry a challenge – what would you say is the biggest challenge?

The biggest challenge to profitability in the photography industry is likely the very device you’re reading this interview on. Smartphones and the hardware they ship with, as you know, do take very nice photos. They are great for sharing on social media and since it is fully integrated in our culture, it’s very easy to underestimate the value of a professional photographer. Many people do not realize there is a significant difference in the quality of images produced by dedicated equipment and professional behind the lens. I think maybe because we are mostly independent contractors, we haven’t been able to unite behind this message in order to restate the very real value of paying someone 300 dollars or more for an hour session.

Ed, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I’ve always been an avid outdoorsman – no, not like Davey Crockett, but just being outside and enjoying activities in nature. Frequently my adventures would take me to places that many never get to see- a mountaintop, an island off the pacific coast, unusual fish and gorgeous sunsets. My eyes are forever scanning for the unusual and beautiful and I would capture these scenes with my cellphone to share with others. It was through their encouragement I began the journey into the world of full frame professional photography. In order to expand my knowledgebase, I took courses in portraiture and boudoir photography and started to grow my portrait business when COVID hit. During the pandemic, I pivoted to nightscape and monsoon photography which is what I am most known for now.

Can you share your view on NFTs? (Note: this is for education/entertainment purposes only, readers should not construe this as advice)

Personally, I think NFTs are a fad and have virtually no real value- because they are literally virtual. Value of anything is subjective, of course, like the commercial that says a car dealer may offer you 1/10th of what a collector will for the same classic car, but at least those are tangible things.

What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?

Word of mouth, social media, and self promotion. I often hand out my business card to people I meet, especially those with families who may need portraits. My name is out there on social media for my landscape photos. I would say I profit equally between print sales and portrait sessions.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.edmitchellphoto.com
• Instagram: edward_mitchell_photography