CAPTURED - Weekly Newsletter

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Future Proof Your Photography

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Hey Reader,

The photography world is changing.

And fast!

Just this week, OpenAI updated ChatGPT to basically spit out images a pro could dream of piecing together.

AI is getting better.

Tools are doing things that used to take us hours.

And it’s easy to feel unsure about where it’s all going.

But I think there’s a bit more to it.

I’m not here to scare you.

Nor do I have all the answers either.

But I’ve been thinking a lot about one thing lately:

How do you future-proof what you’re building?

There’s no perfect plan.

No step-by-step formula.

But here’s what I’m focusing on right now:

1. Build Leverage.

We talked about this last week, but it’s worth repeating.

Your photographer brand is your best asset.

One photo is great...but who you are, what you create, and how people connect with it…

That’s where the long-term value is.

So here’s where I’m putting most of my energy.

Being a point of service.

Offering guides, assistance, and products.

The more I show up, the more people start to trust, follow, and eventually buy.

And you can do the same.

Because when people connect with you, not just your images, opportunities multiply!

Whether that’s: selling a product, landing a job, or growing a loyal audience that genuinely cares.

Shift from Images to Content.

If you’re not monetising yet, cool.

Just start documenting.

Share your thoughts.

Get on YouTube.

Talk about your process.

Build something people can follow, not just consume.

You can also make this shift as a professional.

As a pro shooter, I used to scoff at the idea of mixing commercial work with “content,” but times are changing, and maybe it’s time we change with them.

Offer Reels packages alongside your services.

If you’re a wedding photographer, think about a content creator add-on.

If you're a food photographer, think about a BTS shooter for the day.

I’m just spitballing here, but the world is shifting more and more toward the dreaded C word.

So we can embrace that C word or be left sitting around feeling like the other C word.

…

“Clown,” btw.

Think About What AI Can’t Replace.

I’m not going to sit here and safely assume that events are safe from AI forever, but at least in the near future, genuine interactions still need to be captured.

Events. Human moments. Story-driven projects. Real emotion.

This is where your eye, when combined with your photographer brand, can future-proof your work.

These things matter more than ever.

I know for a fact that when I shoot a wedding, an interior, a hotel, a commercial project, the client’s interaction with me is a good 80% of the job.

We, as photographers, bring the best out in people when we’re on set.

So, leaning into this reality is essential.

And if you’re already working with clients, double down on this.

Build a Reputation, Not Just a Portfolio.

Your photos matter.

But the way people talk about you matters more.

Reputation can’t be replicated overnight.

And it can’t be automated.

If you’re known for being reliable, honest, creative, or generous, it sticks.

That reputation turns into referrals.

Into trust.

Into long-term momentum.

You don’t need to be the loudest online.

But when people remember how you made them feel, that’s when the real leverage kicks in.

Expand Your Creative Edge.

This isn’t about burning yourself out trying to be everything.

It’s about stretching your creativity so it stays alive.

Try shooting in a different location.

Test a new style.

Work with someone you wouldn’t usually team up with.

Explore something for fun, not just for the feed.

Future-proofing your work means continuing to evolve, even just a little, so your skills stay sharp and your ideas stay fresh.

That one random shoot or new editing style might spark something you didn’t even know you needed.

Stay curious.

That’s the real insurance.

So yeah...

I’m kinda scared of AI.

But am I letting it stop me?

Ni de coña.

(That’s Spanish for “not a f*cking chance.”)

But I am thinking hard about where all this is going.

And I want to make sure I’m building something that lasts.

Catch you next week,

Matty 📷 🚀

Whenever you're ready, here are 3 more ways I can help you:

🚀 21 Ways in 21 Days – If you’re ready to grow your brand & start making money with photography, this is for you.

📸 Maste​r Photography – Learn the fundamentals & take pro-level shots with my beginner course.

🎨 Level Up Your Edits – Make your photos pop instantly with my Lightroom presets.

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