On a semi-regular basis, I get asked what knowledge an aspiring photographer would benefit from having about the sports photography industry. Here's what I got, in thread form:

1. Photography is so personal; it feels like a part of you is in your work, so it's extra tough when people criticize it. Detach your worth from the rise and fall in responses to it. Yes, it’s a reflection of you, but the reflection is not the person.

2. Sports photography is competitive, but there’s no use in an adversarial approach in this industry—you’re the one taking the photos, but nobody is an island. Every photo, every credit line is made possible by the people who helped you get there, and who supported/taught you.

3. It’s important to be the kind of person people want on their team, because it’s rare you really are just on your own. Also, being a good human is just...good.

4. The humility to ask for (and apply) advice is critical, and knowing when yours could benefit someone else is every bit as important. Hoarding knowledge may feel like a way to protect your place, but it’s a red flag if you are that fearful about the security of your job.

5. Don’t be tempted into believing that you’ve got to sacrifice all your time and energy to succeed. Work hard, but find balance. And if a place demands that you do sacrifice too much, leave.

6. Success is unlikely to look like you’d pictured it, so be a good steward of the opportunities that come your way, even if they don't entirely match your plans (they should at least *somewhat* be in the direction you hope to go, though).

7. Do everything in your power to avoid comparing yourself to others—your work, your progress, your style. Be inspired by others, but find your own way and trust your own timeline.