unstrung65 opened this issue on May 07, 2004 ยท 18 posts
jacoggins posted Mon, 10 May 2004 at 12:22 PM
unstrung, here is my two cents on your question. I have been trying to display and sell my photgraphs for a little over a year here in the Nashville area. I have sold a few pieces in that time. While I find it frustrating that I haven't sold more pieces in that time, I also realise that for the little effort that I'm actually putting into it, that is probably still a good return. But enough about me... How serious are you about selling your work? I look at my photography as one of my hobbies. I (at the moment am actually on long term disability leave) have a full time job, so I do not depend on selling pictures as a means of supporting myself. Thus I am able to do the 9 different exhibitions over the past 15 months (7 shows, 2 framing shops with my stuff there long term)and not starve. Now on the other hand, if I were depending on my pictures to make a living, it would be necessary to go pounding on doors everyday to get my stuff in more places (restaraunts, galleries, frame shops, coffie shops) as possible to get not only my work in view, but name recognition as well. I as somebody has mentioned before, would suggest getting involved with any art groups in your area. Not only could this possibly open up more venues to show your work, but you can learn a lot about the business of art, selling and marketing your work. My experiences with the untitled group and the Plowhaus Gallery here in Nashville has been a great learning experience. I also owe a great deal to the folks here on the photography forum, as even though there is a lot of nonsence going on here, every once in a while I find a nugget of advice mixed in. Plus the feedback I get about my images, has helped me to improve my modest skills, and gain confidence in my "artistic" vision. It all boils down to how dedicated you are, and what your goals are in regards to selling your work. Ok, I'll shut up now... Jack