One of the biggest challenges that aspiring portrait photographers face is finding people to shoot. For those who live in a small town or who are shy and introverted, finding people to shoot can be particularly challenging. 

However, Ben Staley, filmmaker, and portrait photographer, suggests starting with what you have. You probably have a family and friends, so start with them. Ask them if they would be willing to model for you. While they may be shy or hesitant at first, Ben believes that building trust and rapport with your subjects is critical to capturing great portraits. Everyone has a story to tell, and capturing those stories through photography is a powerful way to connect with others.

Ben's advice to aspiring portrait photographers is to start with what you have, build trust and rapport with your subjects, and focus on capturing the essence of their stories. By turning limitations into a creative advantage, you can find your own voice and create truly unique and powerful portraits.