I was kept awake the night before the bazaar. It was going to be my first time and shooting in a studio fully set up by myself– so despite having plenty of experience in studio work, I was scared. After haphazardly setting up all the equipment (and strewing all the leftover stuff out on the provided table) I sat outside the door, sign in hand, ready to go.

Hours passed. Nobody wanted to do a photoshoot. I figured I needed some more example prints on my sign, of which there was only a picture of my sister that I did while setting up. I called over the next person I saw and offered them a free shoot to use as an example. I got what may be one of my best portraits ever– but she didn’t like it.

Feeling crushed, I resigned to my chair and waited for a few more hours, I sold a few prints but still no shoots. Right when it seemed like the night was done for, I had a young couple come up and ask to do a shoot! I was still learning how to best handle the rented lights, and as such, offered them a discount. After finishing a few poses, they were very satisfied and bought a few prints, handing me more than I had initially asked of them. They told me to follow my dreams, and not let the rough performance of the day deter me.

The next day, I fared much better and made back my entry fee.