1. Start Thinking in Photo Stories, Not Just Single Images

You’re past the “lucky shot” stage. Now ask:
🔹 What’s the full narrative here?
🔹 Can I build a sequence with beginning, middle, and end?
Organize your work in 3–10 photo series that show depth, not just moments.

2. Tighten Your Edit. Cut Without Mercy.

Your edit reflects your voice. Don’t include 3 versions of the same moment. Choose the most powerful frame. The rest weakens your story.

3. Refine Your Captions — They’re Part of the Story

Good images get ignored without solid context.
Learn how to write AP-style captions:
Who, What, When, Where, Why — accurately and concisely.
Bad captioning = editors skip your work.

4. Study Local Life Like a Foreign Correspondent

Don’t wait for big national events. Look deeply at your own community:

• Underreported issues
• Marginalized voices
• Everyday rituals
  Build stories with people, not just about them.

5. Make Friends With Editors

Be professional. On time. Responsive.
Ask for feedback. Ask what they need. Follow up with a new story pitch every few weeks. Persistence matters more than perfection.

6. Invest in Versatility

Master different environments:
✔️ Low light
✔️ Bad weather
✔️ Fast action
✔️ Quiet scenes
The more types of situations you can handle, the more valuable you are.

7. Upgrade Your Workflow

Time to level up your process:

• Use Photo Mechanic or Lightroom presets to speed up editing
• Maintain organized folders, backups, and metadata
• Keep a working archive you can quickly pull from

8. Create a Cohesive Online Portfolio

Avoid random galleries. Organize by story or theme.
Show range: action, quiet moments, emotion, detail.
Use simple platforms like PhotoShelter, Pixieset, or a clean Squarespace/WordPress site.

9. Protect Yourself: Legally and Logistically

You’re not a beginner—start acting like a pro:

• Have a simple contract or terms for clients
• Know your legal rights when shooting in public
• Back up your work—always

10. Seek Feedback — But Only From the Right People

Find photographers or editors you respect. Ask for critique, not compliments.
Don’t just ask “Do you like this?” Ask:
“Would you run this?”
“What would make this stronger?”

11. Stay Curious and Keep Shooting Outside Assignments

Shoot personal projects regularly.
They help develop your voice and vision—which is what separates good photojournalists from great ones.

12. Start Applying for Small Grants, Contests, and Publishing

You’re ready. Apply for:

• Local arts grants
• Small exhibitions
• NPPA’s Best of Photojournalism
• College newspaper awards, state press clubs, or emerging photographer contests
  Even small wins build your momentum and confidence.