Can you become a professional photographer after 40? This is a question that may be on your mind, especially if you have just discovered your passion for photography. Whether you are just starting out or have been experimenting with it for a while, the prospect of turning your late-found passion into a career can be both exciting and intimidating.
Coming to you from Scott Choucino with Tin House WorkshopThis insightful video challenges the notion that age can limit your chances of becoming a professional photographer. Choucino doesn’t sugarcoat it – there are some people who simply can’t make it, and it’s not because of their age. It’s more about mindset. If you’re stuck in old ways, resistant to change, or dismissive of new technologies like TikTok, your chances of success are slim. Photography moves fast these days, and if you’re not willing to adapt, you’ll find it hard to keep up.
What makes this video particularly valuable is how it balances the challenges with the possibilities. Choucino talks about how easy it is to learn the technical side of photography. You can master your camera and lighting in six months, and with dedication, you can start producing work that gets noticed. What’s harder, however, is unlearning outdated practices. If you’ve been stuck doing the same thing for 20 years, it’s much harder to pivot and meet the demands of today’s industry. Choucino shares examples from his mentorship program where people with just a year or two of experience have secured agency representation and campaigns around the world, simply because they approached the profession with fresh eyes and a desire to grow.
One of the most encouraging points Choucino makes is about the benefits of starting later in life. As an older beginner, you bring a level of maturity and wisdom that younger photographers may lack. This can actually work to your advantage. Clients may take you more seriously, and your life experiences can inspire your creative vision in unique ways. Choucino even touches on the confidence that comes with age – how walking onto a set with grey hair and wrinkles can sometimes give you an advantage. People assume you know what you’re doing just because of your appearance, and that’s not a bad thing in a field where first impressions matter.
However, Choucino also warns against complacency. Just because you’re older doesn’t mean you can rely on experience alone. To be successful, you need to be actively involved in creating new work, pushing your boundaries, and maintaining your skills. Those who stagnate, rely on outdated portfolios, or refuse to innovate will find themselves being overtaken by younger, more curious photographers. The key is to stay curious, creative, and continue to shoot new, progressive work. Watch the video above for Choucino’s full recap.
