Turning your beloved hobby into a career might seem like a pipe dream, but it is a realistic possibility if you are dedicated. Lots of people dream of making money doing abstract digital photography, writing, or cooking. Making a hobby into a career can be difficult, and it doesn't happen overnight, but it can be done. Here are some ideas for things you can do to move closer to that goal.
1. Be serious about your craft. Spend time working on what you love every day. Approach it with dedication, and figure out ways to improve your skills. Do research and read articles about developments and advancements in the field. This is all part of molding yourself as a professional.
2. Create an online presence. People need to know who you are in relation to your craft. Consider having a social networking profile that is devoted specifically to the profession you want to enter. For instance, if you are a writer, have a blog separate from your personal social networking sites, where you display you writing work only.
3. Develop your resume. You need to build a resume that is straightforward and simple to understand. This may mean creating separate resumes for your general work experience and your experience with your art. If someone is interested in you as a photographer, for instance, they do not need to read that you worked in a deli when you were in high school. Put only relevant information on each resume.
4. Make contacts in your field. This is also called "networking." Get to know people who work in the field you are interested in, especially those whose work has influenced you. Find out what kinds of experiences led them to where they are today, and seek out similar experiences for yourself. Having a mentor can be incredibly valuable.
5. Consider internships. This may not be an option for everyone, as many internships are unpaid. But if you have the time and the resources to work for no money, this can be a good way to learn about a field. If you need paid work, you might be able to find a part-time job as an assistant or an apprentice to someone. Ask around and see what you can find.
6. Make a portfolio. A portfolio may be digital or kept in a physical binder or folder, but ideally you should have both a physical copy and a digital one. That will give you more flexibility. When someone is interested in seeing your work, you can either show them the physical copy, or direct them to your digital portfolio. It is a great way to collect the best examples of your work.
Abstract digital photography, or other hobbies like cooking and writing, can definitely become careers. You have to be willing to plan ahead and devote a lot of time, but you can make money doing what you love. Follow the ideas in this article to start down the professional path. When you get your first paycheck for your art, it will be worthwhile. Good luck!
1. Be serious about your craft. Spend time working on what you love every day. Approach it with dedication, and figure out ways to improve your skills. Do research and read articles about developments and advancements in the field. This is all part of molding yourself as a professional.
2. Create an online presence. People need to know who you are in relation to your craft. Consider having a social networking profile that is devoted specifically to the profession you want to enter. For instance, if you are a writer, have a blog separate from your personal social networking sites, where you display you writing work only.
3. Develop your resume. You need to build a resume that is straightforward and simple to understand. This may mean creating separate resumes for your general work experience and your experience with your art. If someone is interested in you as a photographer, for instance, they do not need to read that you worked in a deli when you were in high school. Put only relevant information on each resume.
4. Make contacts in your field. This is also called "networking." Get to know people who work in the field you are interested in, especially those whose work has influenced you. Find out what kinds of experiences led them to where they are today, and seek out similar experiences for yourself. Having a mentor can be incredibly valuable.
5. Consider internships. This may not be an option for everyone, as many internships are unpaid. But if you have the time and the resources to work for no money, this can be a good way to learn about a field. If you need paid work, you might be able to find a part-time job as an assistant or an apprentice to someone. Ask around and see what you can find.
6. Make a portfolio. A portfolio may be digital or kept in a physical binder or folder, but ideally you should have both a physical copy and a digital one. That will give you more flexibility. When someone is interested in seeing your work, you can either show them the physical copy, or direct them to your digital portfolio. It is a great way to collect the best examples of your work.
Abstract digital photography, or other hobbies like cooking and writing, can definitely become careers. You have to be willing to plan ahead and devote a lot of time, but you can make money doing what you love. Follow the ideas in this article to start down the professional path. When you get your first paycheck for your art, it will be worthwhile. Good luck!