Charles and Jennifer Maring

"Our advice to new photographers is try and focus on what you are passionate about in photography rather than what draws income. Time after time we have proven to ourselves that personal work evolves into paid assignments in the long run. Resume building is extremely important, so get out there and put your camera to use on personal growth even though you aren't getting paid.

Also, never become satisfied with your past success and consider further effort unnecessary. Now that photography and technology are married, the pace of change has ramped up dramatically. Find comfort in the fact that the industry is ever changing and evolve with it… In fact lead it whenever possible. If you are doing just what is easy and comfortable, then chances are you aren't growing as an artist or business person. Make sure to spend time on ideas that push you to learn and evolve."

There's a whole series of short great lighting tips in the Video Training center of the SCU site thanks to Profoto and Charles and Jennifer. As one of the NYC areas most dynamic and diverse couples you should be following their site and where they're speaking. There's also a terrific podcast we did together a short time ago with some great suggestions to help your journey as a professional photographer.