Last Updated on 04/30/2015 by Chris Gampat

National Geographic Creative Director Andy Baker has answers to one of the most burning questions most photographers may have: How do I get my work seen by clients?
Andy explains that you first need to have good work, but then you should also try to understand who your client is. For example, Andy states that National Geographic won’t necessarily hire a wedding photographer to do a campaign of theirs because they don’t understand the client (Nat Geo) or their identity and needs.
But more than that, Andy also says that you need to do lots of personal projects to show off what you’re individually capable of–not what a client asks you to do. For that, you need to hone your own unique creative vision to demonstrate the types of work that you can do. If you’re a match, then great. If you’re not then, move on.
His advice can apply to nearly any industry though. If an actor wants a headshot done, they want to see what you can do vs what they’re starting to call the GWC (Guy with a camera.) Further, a Bride and Groom will hire you as a wedding photographer not only based on your work but also on the way that you work and handle people.
Andy’s video is after the jump.
#BehindtheGlass | Andy Baker on How to Get Your Work Seen by Clients from a.a. productions on Vimeo.