Why I’m Multi-Niched As A Photographer—
You've probably heard the classic advice before that you should "just choose a niche and stick with it!" However, I believe that as a photographer, there is a unique strength in being capable of capturing stunning images in a wide variety of settings, sessions, and formats—even should you choose to specialize in one niche in your marketing.
I’m sharing with you a few of the reasons that I have changed my mind about "niching down" and hopefully provide you with some information to consider before marrying this classic advice.
One note: there are plenty of advantages to choosing a niche, especially in the world of business (and there is a famous study on jam samples reminding us that too many choices do more harm than good), but I would like to argue for the moment that a certain level of variety as it pertains to the creative world could be the difference between coasting on auto-pilot or burning-out, and creative flourishing and innovation.
1.) It challenges me to be ever-growing in my skillset as a storyteller.
Constantly pushing myself to new and unique settings in my own personal storytelling has allowed me to later draw from a deep well of inspiration that I can pour into the images I capture with my camera. Exposing myself to and becoming skilled in a wide variety of shooting scenarios and storytelling methods has also granted me the ability to become a much more skilled photographer in niched settings, such as weddings, where, in a single day, I as the photographer will capture portraits, flat-lays, families, groups, a rapid series of one-shot pivotal moments, architecture, landscape, dancing, and more.
2.) I am more prepared for the unexpected.
Most in-demand photographers are not capturing photos in controlled environments the majority of the time. The unexpected could happen at any moment. I strive to be as prepared to expertly handle any challenging or unique situation as possible and be able to think creatively about how to move forward to achieve stunning results in any situation, by drawing on the confidence and skill I have gained from previous experiences. There just is no substitute or short-cut for first-hand experience.
3.) It pushes me to innovation.
Photography can be a very creative pursuit, however, it can also be easy to slip into the same rhythms of locations, shooting, posing, crafting an image, and editing. I believe that constantly exposing myself to new environments and projects allows my mind to break free of rote patterns and embrace an innovative approach, all while hanging on to the fundamentals of what makes a great story, photo, and photography experience for the person or story on the other side of the camera.
