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<p>I’ve been reading almost all postings in this forum, and I do really appreciate and enjoy all feedback from all sorts of photographers out there, however, today is my first time to post online on photo.net.<br /> <br /> I’m a freelance photographer who recently decided to switch careers from a full-time Information Technology specialist to a Freelance Photographer. I have not done photography as a full-time job, apart from few projects here and there over the past 12-13 years, and my natural love to photography and taking photos, I understand photography technically and practically (self-taught myself over the years), I shoot digital and have a thorough understanding of the technology and what goes behind all the dials on the cameras and the computers alike.<br /> <br /> I have recently created my website that -in my opinion- has my best shots over the years. I’m posting it at the end of this message for those who can spare few minutes of their time to comment on and critique my photos, I’m new to running photography as a business, and I’m keen to hear all kinds of constructive feedback.<br /> <br /> Also, if you were to classify what type of Photography I enjoy most out of the few photos posted on my website, what would you think I am? (Portrait photographer, travel, commercial, product, etc….) I’m aware that the photos are not diverse enough to include many types of photography, but would appreciate any thoughts.<br /> <br /> I’m also looking for assisting jobs for any Toronto-based photographer that I can learn from, where is a good start? I do believe that my IT/computer/technology experience combined with my photography skills can help me greatly in assisting, I’m proficient with photography workflow and software packages like Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom, Aperture, and some others that may give me an added advantage to assisting.<br /> <br /> My website is http://www.nabilhijjawi.com <br /> <br /> Thanks,</p>

<p>nabil, there appears to be a number of interesting pictures in your website. i got the impression that some of the portraits are of family members. they are willings subjects so always a good starting point. it shows that you have a good understanding of exposure and composition. some of the candid, almost street like shots were good enough too. however, there really wasn't enough there for me to categorise.<br>

what kind of market are you looking at? as a freelancer, are you thinking of stock or perhaps snapping portraits or maybe even do a few weddings? wedding work might well keep you afloat when the times become hard. portrait work is again going to bring in money if you have a good advertising setup and premises.<br>

when you are looking for assisting, you might well find in this recession era that a pro would be unwilling to pay. so you are going to learn about field work and get the benefit of his or her time. is that suitable for you? there is a huge ethnic community in toronto. if you had chinese or indian-asian friends, i am sure you would get work for capturing one of the many colourful parties. these in itself might be a good starting point to understanding a niche market as well as the requirements of what goes on.<br>

i do hope that you do well. the times are not good and you might not want to completely give up on it!</p>

<p>Having the tools and technical skills isn't enough, especially in these tough times when anyone can buy a digital camera and call themselves a "photographer." The secret to success is marketing your services and finding a market for your services.</p>

<p>Simply declaring yourself as a freelance photographer and expecting assignments to appear isn't going to lead to success. You need to build a first-class portfolio, network relentlessly, and deliver the goods and services in a totally professional manner.</p>

<p>Good luck</p>

<p> </p>

<p>I would have a hard time saying one category fits, some do look like family, but then there are several that the subject matter seems to be 'bicycle'. One of the first headshots seems a little out of focus, and some of the white balance looks a little off. As SG and CW mentioned, a lot depends on what you are targeting for your audience/potential clients. That will help determine what you might want to post as a portfolio. For instance, a potential wedding ceremony client will not be interested in scenic or artisitic still life shots, but would want 'people' shots.</p>

<p>By the look of your website, I'd say you like casual portraits, 'street' photography, and maybe travel. Have you tried event photography? I think you'd be good at it.</p>

<p>Nabil<br>

As a freelance photographer, you will need skills in many different fields of photography, especially in these hard times.<br>

One day you may be called on to photograph a fair, the next day portraits, etc; etc.<br>

From what I have seen of your photos, you are very good at children photography.<br>

The best of luck to you, and let us know from time to time how you are doing</p>