The Luxurious Life of a Fashion Photographer

A luxurious life is not something many are born into, but there are some of us who work hard and make it to the top. And then there are some who just people assume are living a life full of luxuries. I for one am that person.

A couple of days ago, I met this young man who was starting college. He was extremely keen to learn more about my lifestyle. He kept asking me what kind of car I drove, so I told him I drive a rover, as it allows me to carry all my equipment with me easily. And because I enjoy the process of setting up.

Then he asked me how much I made per month, and which area do I live in. So I told him that it depends on the number of shoots I take on, and the conversation continued in this direction. During the end of the conversation he said “you fashion photographers, live such a luxurious life”.

[pullquote] my focus was never about living a luxurious life, it was always about making a difference. It was about my love for photography, and to achieve greatness that derived in. And in my opinion people who are simply after a luxurious life, do not make it that far. [/pullquote]

This, however, did not sit well with me, but I let it slide as he was about to leave. However, I need to make a few things clear. This home, car, and lifestyle that I support was not handed down to me. And I can speak for most of the professionals working on my career. We were not born with this talent or fame, most of us have worked day and night to achieve what we have today.

There was not a single day when I decided to slack, as things were just handed down to me. Yes, I do live a luxurious life than most, but it’s something I have worked hard for.

For those of you who look up to me, or other successful fashion photographers and think we are living “the life”, then you should know that we have worked for it. There are no shortcuts to living a luxurious life. You are either born with it, or decide to work hard till you achieve it.

Another thing, my focus was never about living a luxurious life, it was always about making a difference. It was about my love for photography, and to achieve greatness that derived in. And in my opinion people who are simply after a luxurious life, do not make it that far.

So the next time you see a professional fashion photographer, or anyone from the industry and feel they are “too successful”, know that they have worked for it. There were extremely long hours, and endless days that went into them being where they are. This is not an easy industry, and making your way to the top required dedication, talent, and passion. The industry opened its arms to everyone who wishes to join, but if you are simply looking to live a luxurious life without working for it, then you will find yourself at the bottom.