Commercial photography is a coveted, prestigious, elusive industry. It’s the definition of gatekept. Many photographers have the talent. They’ve been to school, taken courses, and honed their skills. What they don’t have is the industry know-how to get their work in front of the right people, make a good first impression, and navigate contracts. There are rules and information they don’t have access to. In short, they can shoot beautiful pictures but not book the dream clients they want.

Eventually, they come to believe that commercial photography isn’t a possibility for them. They stay in their comfort zone, playing it safe, and never chase their dreams of making it in the big leagues. Those dreams die on the vine, not for a lack of skill, but because this opaque industry is tough to break into.

The road to that dream is a long one paved with hustle, hard work, and rejection. But if knowing this doesn’t deter you, if you’re one of the photographers who does have the determination to work with prestigious big-name clients, then listen up, because The Photo Hustle is going to teach you everything you need to know about this business—and how you can get in. Because it is possible and not reserved for the elite; it’s for anyone willing to do the work. All you need is a little tenacity, talent (which you have!), and the tips and tricks in this book.

The Photo Hustle is the insider tell-all every aspiring commercial photographer needs to bridge the gap between textbook knowledge and real-world skills. It is not a guide to photography, like how to take great pictures or operate aperture or shutter speed. It’s about the business—the ultimate guide to landing dream clients like Tiffany's, Vanity Fair, or Nike . . . and to keeping those clients booking you again and again!