Much discussion in our industry revolves around the best path to privileged photographic opportunities. Individuals set out on many different courses to distinguish themselves in the hope of garnering a reputation that will bring them unique assignments. Assignments that include what is the holy grail to most aviation shooters, air-to-air work. The subject of this article is ISAP’s own Glenn Watson. Glenn is an Austin based information technology engineer for one of the largest technology companies in the world. Relatively new to photography, but a pilot and a long time motor sports enthusiast, he quickly developed a passion for capturing aviation subjects. Most of us start developing our skills by attending and shooting air shows and other aviation related events, and Glenn was no different. Glenn began to differentiate himself from the pack when he realized that experience and knowledge are only two of the components necessary to get him where he wanted
to go. Another big ingredient in the success of any business venture, especially a business as specialized as aviation photography, is the ability to build relationships. Building the kind of relationships that put a photographer in the air, just a stone’s throw from his or her subjects, are the kind of relationships that develop slowly and are based upon a special mix of trust and confidence. Many photographers have the talent and the equipment, especially in this, the digital age, to capture good images, even very good images. Working diligently to hone “good” into “exceptional” requires an intensity and devotion to the craft that few are willing, or able to apply. Furthermore, exceptional is not within every photographer’s reach, no matter how hard they strive for it. A relatively small percentage of us have the talent, and the drive to combine the other ingredients, in sufficient amounts, to rise to the top of our chosen field.