What are the five tips Scott Kivowitz would give to his younger self for maximizing skills and income?

Hi there!

Based on what I teach photographers now, here are five tips I’d absolutely give my younger self for maximizing both skills and income:

• Invest early in business education, not just camera gear – learn pricing, positioning, and client experience as seriously as you learn exposure and composition.
• Practice with intention – pick one skill per week (lighting, posing, sales, editing speed) and drill it.
• Build systems, not just hustle – clear workflows for inquiries, sessions, editing, and sales.
• Treat every client like a long-term relationship – great communication and guidance dramatically increase photo sales (and referrals).
• Specialize sooner – niche down to the work you love and become known for that.

Which of these do you want to dive deeper into first?