Jonathan on some of the challenges photographers face: “And then there’s this long valley that happens between these assignments where I don’t know if another one’s coming. I don’t know if the money’s going to last between them. Early on, that was very tough psychologically. I’ve gotten better with dealing with that now, and I think a big part of that is not totally defining myself as a photographer, finding other things to do in my life.”
— Jonathan Kingston, professional photographer
We’re back with part two of our conversation with professional photographer Jonathan Kingston. In this installment, he offers an honest look at the highs and lows of life behind the lens, and shares thoughtful insights on how to make the tough moments more sustainable. It’s a must-read for any creative soul wondering if their passion can truly pay the bills.
As a National Geographic contributing photographer and a founding member of Submerged Archaeological Conservancy International, Jonathan weaves together the threads of science, exploration, and human experience. His work captures the rich tapestry of maritime archaeology and natural history, sparking curiosity and a deeper connection to our world.
Text below transcribed from a portion of an interview conducted by Betty of Cradoc fotoSoftware in February 2025. To view this and other interviews, please go to our Cradoc fotoSoftware YouTube Channel.
Facing the Challenges of Assignment Work in a Photography Career
For me in the editorial documentary world, it’s the biggest challenge [fluctuating workflow of being a professional photographer]; that was a challenge then and is still a challenge now: it’s a real peaks and valleys experience. I’ll get an assignment. I’ll be out on assignment, I’ll be on the top of the world. I’ll be on the summit of Mount Everest, figuratively speaking, just loving every second of it. Coming back, turning in, take it to the editor. I see it in print, that’s wonderful. And then there’s this long valley that happens between these assignments where I don’t know if another one’s coming. I don’t know if the money’s going to last between them.
Early on, that was very tough psychologically. I’ve gotten better with dealing with that now, and I think a big part of that is not totally defining myself as a photographer, finding other things to do in my life. A big part of that is becoming a parent and having my daughter to take care of, and it lets me take myself less seriously than I used to. But another part of dealing with that is, sometimes those valleys are a couple two, three, four months long. And so I had to find other ways to generate income between assignments.
And that came down to teaching photographic workshops and leading tours for National Geographic. They do these wonderful, photo expeditions all over the world, and I got hooked up with some great people that organized that. So that’s helped me to have things on the calendar that I know I have guaranteed income coming, and I know I can make it through those valleys financially. And that’s how I carry on in the business.
Also, often with creative souls, of which I am one, having a variety of interests and applications also helps keep me fresh.
Playing music, rock climbing. You know? There’s all sorts of things that when I’m in those valleys I can turn to and it gives me that creative juice again, and it gives me that excitement to carry on.
The Tough Side of a Photography Career
The photography journey comes with its fair share of hurdles. Dive into this blog for a closer look. And don’t miss this post highlighting even more challenges photographers may face.
About Jonathan Kingston
Jonathan Kingston is a contributing photographer for National Geographic and a founding member of Submerged Archaeological Conservancy International. His work explores maritime archaeology, natural history, and the human experience, weaving together science, exploration, and storytelling to deepen our understanding of the world.
Website: Jonathan Kingston
Instagram: @jonathankingston
LinkedIn: Jonathan Kingston
<h3>See other great interview transcripts:</h3>
- Todd Bigelow
- Jonathan Kingston
- Julie Bidwell
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