Eba Kapel's Career Journey and Insights in Photography

Introduction to Career Insights from Eba Kapel

  • Eba Kapel graduated in 2023 from Penn State with a degree in Art History and a major in Professional Photography.

  • She is currently a full-time freelance photographer, working primarily in various photography styles.

Overview of Eba's Career Journey

  • Eba graduated less than three years ago and emphasizes the rapid growth of her career within that time frame.

  • Reported a strong desire to help and mentor other aspiring photographers, offering her contact information for support.

  • Sees herself as a resource for students transitioning from academia to the professional world.

Professional Experience and Notable Projects

  • Extensive portfolio includes diverse photography work across various domains:

    • Events:

    • College Football Playoff for four years

    • Worked in hospitality, capturing images of lounges and rooms for players and coaches

    • Participated in a documentary project associated with Hulu, which involved a two-week summer tour

    • Captured images at the National Volleyball Convention and a charity gala

    • Athletics:

    • Photo intern for Penn State football during senior year

    • Responsible for shooting during prestigious events like March Madness and the Big Ten Championship

    • Documented the Olympic wrestling trials in State College and numerous athletic competitions

    • Products and Brand Collaborations:

    • Worked with notable brands including Nike Volleyball and Nike Wrestling, GameBeat Boots, and YOLA, a pickleball company

    • Local collaborations included Irving's Bagels and Brew Doctor Kombucha

    • Portraits:

    • Completed over 130 graduate photo sessions, six weddings, and various personal portraits (newborns, proposals, etc.)

Background and Early Influences

  • Eba's interest in photography dates back to childhood, where she took photos of her stuffed animals.

  • Developed her skills further in high school, attending a public art academy and engaging in traditional darkroom photography.

  • Credits her artistic upbringing to her father, a graphic designer, and the exposure to art and culture throughout her life.

Education Experience at Penn State

  • Describes the transition from high school to Penn State as serendipitous, coinciding with the opening of a new design and photography program during her freshman year.

  • Highlights participation in projects and internships starting from the first semester:

    • Interned with the arts and architecture department before starting classes.

    • Captured moments during large events like the whiteout and collaborated on projects, including editorial and human interest pieces.

Projects and Creative Growth

  • Eba emphasizes important projects through her years:

    • Freshman Year:

      • Engaged in various photography projects despite COVID-19, including social-distanced portraits.

    • Sophomore Year:

      • Focused on emotional artistic expression with cyanotype photography, blending personal journaling with visuals.

    • Junior Year:

      • Experienced with sports photography through involvement with various college programs and special projects.

Professional Development and Advice

  • Key insights for success post-graduation include:

    • The importance of dedication and effort in work; more engaged assignments yield better career opportunities.

    • Networking should extend beyond class assignments. Engage with local businesses and seek real-world experience to enhance learning.

    • Emphasizes the need for broader skill sets: clients often seek versatility in services beyond just photography.

    • Understanding the business side: how to negotiate rates effectively and present oneself confidently to potential clients.

Pricing and Business Strategy

  • Discussed her strategies around setting and negotiating prices, suggesting:

    • Potential clients should convey their budget to initiate a discussion.

    • The value of detailing all aspects of pricing on websites to establish clarity.

    • Importance of providing quality work while setting competitive prices to ensure client's confidence.

Conclusion and Q&A Insights

  • Eba concluded with an invitation for further engagement and questions from attendees, highlighting the importance of contentment in freelance work and ongoing professional growth.

  • Insightful discussions revolved around challenges faced in the freelance market, managing client expectations, and enforced contract agreements as protection for both the freelancer and the client.