Skill Set vs. Attitude

If you want a job, and you're not as good as the next guy, then work longer than the next guy.
Work faster. Be there before him - because talented people show up late,
and sometimes shit needs to get done.
Kevin Costner

I found the quote above and it hit me on something many of you are missing. So often I meet photographers who just doesn't have the confidence yet, mostly because they're totally obsessed with capturing the perfect image. They're totally engrossed in their technical skills, when success in business is based on so much more.

My good buddy, Tony Corbell tells a story about when he first opened his studio: 

"I may not have been the best photographer in town, but I was determined to be the nicest!" 

The image on the left is of Tony taken in Liverpool. You'll never find a bigger Beatles fan!

The image ran in a guest post he did on Scott Kelby's blog. Click on the image to read his guest post from 2012. His message in this post is timeless! Plus, he's definitely one of the nicest guys in photography, only today, he's also one of the best photographers.

I'm not suggesting you abandon your quest to be an outstanding artist, just recognize that business today is built on strong relationships. You need to show your passion for the craft; listen to your clients and make yourself habit-forming. 

                                                Your attitude, not your aptitude, will determine your altitude.
                                                                                                Zig Ziglar
 
Running a successful business is about people having a great time working with you. Yes, you need to be able to deliver solid results, but it's just as important to create a terrific experience for each client. 

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