The advent of digital photography has led to an explosion in photography, both as a creative art form and as a career choice as well. However, the basics of becoming a photographer may sound incredibly easy now. You can buy a camera and some equipment, learn photography from a multitude of free online photography courses, practice your photography skills, and find a niche that you can focus on.
However, though it sounds easy, the truth is, it is not that simple. Photography is an extremely competitive field that requires you to have talent, skills, marketing acumen, and discipline to make your mark as a professional photographer.
But Abel Nyron Harris’ story on how he became a professional photographer brings a sprinkle of inspiration to upcoming photographers who are confronted with hurdles that might seem impossible to jump.
Looking back at his early life, Abel was born on the 13th December 2001, at the Bartica Regional Hospital to Joycelyn and Nathan Harris. He is the last out of six siblings. His academic journey began at the St. John the Baptist Primary School before he transitioned to St. Roses High School.
Despite growing up in what we might call a “poor family,” Abel stated that his parents tried their best to create a pathway for their children.
My parents carved a path for me in life that I cannot repay or thank them enough for. Although I had quite some struggles, they would always help me overcome them or find a way out. In a family with four brothers and two sisters, I’m never out of support.
Focusing on his future, this photographist said that he was more into painting and drawing. But a bit of practice did the magic.
After getting my first smartphone, I started to take pictures of sunsets and landscapes. I realized I might be loving this way of showcasing producing art. Then afterward, I never stopped taking pictures on my mobile until I bought my first camera.
He then purchased a Canon Rebel T6 camera in January 2019. Knowing little to nothing about how to shoot a camera, the young man said that it was a new adventure for him, which he was ready for. But, his shots were of poor quality. This, however, prompted him to learn about the camera.
“What led me to become a photographer was nothing more than just me having the love and passion for art. I did not expect myself to be in the photography industry, nor did I see myself pursuing it. It just happened if you put it that way,” Abel shared.
He added that the work and creation of other photographers inspire him. He noted that these artists’ ability to create and capture that moment fuels him to recreate and make his imaginations roam. Abel is spreading his wings in both photography and videography and hopes to make it big in the industry.
To improve his skills, Abel said he would usually practice new shooting and editing styles.
Looking, learning, and trying is something I’d do on a daily basis. The practice is compulsory because photography is never-ending, and creation is limitless. I not only practice, reading a lot about lighting, composition, angles, and much more that would improve not only my skill but knowledge about what I do.
Now that he has begun producing high-quality photos, the young man relayed that one of his main challenges is differentiating himself from other photographers.
“You’d fall into the category of every other photographer the minute you’re cliché in your artwork, composition, and style. I have not yet developed or differentiated myself from other photographers, but eventually, I’ll get there,” the young man posited.
His advice to upcoming photographers is simple. He professed;
To anyone who’s joining the field, always try to be creative and don’t ever limit yourself. Photography is forever growing, and it’s up to you to keep up with the times, improvise a situation when you need to, try different styles of shooting and editing, and always, I repeat, ALWAYS have a backup battery. A better-composed photo is always the best.
When Abel is not taking out photos, he is mostly involved in outdoor activities; fishing, looking at documentaries, travelling to new interior places, and volunteering in events that are for a worthy cause, like clean-up campaigns. He is aspiring to become a photo/film producer.
Contact Information for Abel Harris
- Facebook Page: Abel_H_Studio
- Instagram:abel.h.studio
- Telephone #: 592 621 – 4046
- Email: [email protected]