CHAPTER 28
A Success Story
In today’s market, stories regarding the negative aspects of
our industry abound. It’s not surprising. Editorial contracts
have been slashed, independent stock agencies are disappear-
ing as they continue to be absorbed by the big three, and assign-
ment photographers are still facing a buying public that does
not seem to be buying as much assignment photography as they
used to.
In the midst of what is clearly a very difficult time, there are
success stories, positive sagas that can get lost if not repeated, tales
that need to be told as they have the ability to inform, inspire, and
help us to keep perspective. The tale of Los Angeles–based
editorial shooter Tom Johnson is a story worth sharing.
The first facts that you need to know about Tom are that
he is not yet making tons of money, he has very few clients, and
he is far from being a household name. Equally important,
Tom is extremely talented, has photography in his blood,
works hard, has a “never say die” attitude, and is rarely satisfied
with his own efforts. These qualities may make life a bit
difficult for Tom from time to time, but I am convinced that
they are the tools that will help him to achieve financial and
creative success.
Tom came to a workshop I gave in Los Angeles for the
American Society of Media Photographers (ASMP) about ten
years ago. Shortly afterward, he contacted me and was deter-
mined that we would work together. He was committed to
becoming a successful, national editorial photographer. He
told me that he needed a new portfolio.Chapter 28.qxd 6/25/07 7:26 AM Page 172