I am at the point in my life where my friends and I are starting “real” jobs. It means different things for different people but it is always involves butterflies in the stomach, hoping you don’t have pit stains, and praying someone actually believes you are an adult. Offically becoming a business within the last year I have been learning what it means to look like a professional. I am lucky to have shadowed a seasoned pro photographer but some of the the most valuable things I learned from her had nothing to do with cameras.

This list isn’t just for the people in the photography field, having these tools will help you in any career.

• Always carry a pen. Such a little thing but being stuck in a scramble looking for a pen when talking to a potential client or boss is so awkward and makes you feel vulnerable. Keep extras in your purse, car, where you can quickly get to them.
• Work on your “Elevator Pitch.” Be confident in what you do and that you belong there. Refrain from making excuses. When you are young or just starting out, it feels like you have to explain why you in your current job or justify your situation. Don’t do this. Practice being able to tell someone your job, why you love it, and why you’re good at it… in a humble way.
• Business Cards I wish I didn’t put these off for so long. It’s made the biggest difference to be able to something tangible with my contact information. I ordered through Moo and am 100% percent happy with them. They are thick with a smooth texture. Also with Moo I was able to different pictures to go on the back easily. It is like a tiny portfolio in my purse and I love it. If you want to order through them and get 10% off your first order you can use this link.