A Short Guide by Danie Bester
Gleaned from DPC’s “How to Start a Photography Business” Course
Introduction
Think of your photographer’s bio as a friendly and personal introduction to potential clients, colleagues, and fans of your work. It’s not just a list of your skills and experiences – it’s your professional journey that highlights your creativity, passion, vision, and unique approach (USP). A well-written biography can make you seem more trustworthy, credible, and relatable to your audience.
Why Your Bio Matters
Your bio is your chance to say hello to the world. Its main purpose is to showcase your professionalism, express your creative outlook, and foster a personal bond with your audience. It’s a go-to reference during interviews and a powerful tool for marketing and selling your work.
When you’re getting ready to write your bio, remember the following:
- Keep It Clear and Short: Use a style that’s easy to understand and keep it brief. Your readers should get a good sense of your story and artistic vision quickly.
- Be Authentic: Steer clear of grandiose language and clichés. Be yourself and be honest. (And remember, you don’t have to say “I’m passionate about photography” – let your work show your passion.)
- Make It Interesting: Don’t treat your bio like a resume – it’s a snapshot of your artistic journey and perspective. Make it personal and engaging.
Highlight Your Art, Not Your Gear: Focus more on your creative process and what inspires you, rather than the equipment you use.
Places to Use Your Bio
Your comprehensive bio can be used on your professional website, in your portfolio, or in publications featuring your work. For platforms like social media or when sharing specific projects, a condensed version of your bio may be more suitable.
What to Include in Your Bio
Your bio should touch on the following:
- Influences: Talk about the artists, styles, and trends that have significantly influenced your work.
- Education: Mention any formal or informal education or training you’ve received in photography.
- Experience: Share experiences that have helped shape you as a photographer.
- Creative Philosophy: Give a brief statement about your artistic beliefs and how you approach your work. Your artistic philosophy reflects your unique style and approach to photography. In essence, your creative philosophy should answer the following questions:
- Why are you drawn to your particular style or type of photography?
- And what drives or inspires you to create?
- Techniques: Discuss any unique techniques you use in your work but avoid getting too technical.
- Goals: Briefly mention what you hope to achieve through your photography.
Practical Tips for Writing Your Bio
Write Drunk, Edit Sober
- Research: Check out the bios of photographers or artists you admire for inspiration and to see what makes a bio engaging and effective.
- Draft: Write your bio a few times. This will help you polish and expand your thoughts.
- Take Breaks: Give yourself some-time between drafts to clear your head and come back to your bio with fresh eyes.
- Get Feedback: Ask a respected peer or mentor in your field to review your bio and offer their insights.
- Proofread and Edit: Go through your bio carefully for any mistakes, and revise for clarity and brevity.
Updating Your Bio Regularly
As your journey as a photographer continues, your bio should keep up with your progress. Regular updates will keep your audience up-to-date on your growth, new inspirations, and artistic shifts. When adding new details, make sure they add to your bio’s narrative without discrediting your older work. Your bio is a living document that narrates your evolving story as a photographer.
I’d like to share my own biography as an example. I’d strongly recommend doing your research – study and take inspiration from your favourite photographers’ bios when creating your own.
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