What's the right partway to becoming a photographer?

[Designer]

Well, there you are, AaKajx, see if you can work as an assistant to a local photographer. You won't be behind the camera, but you'll learn how to set up lights, modifiers, props, backdrops, schedule clients, sweep the floor, clean the loo, etc.

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[wedlockimages]

Well, there you are, AaKajx, see if you can work as an assistant to a local photographer. You won't be behind the camera, but you'll learn how to set up lights, modifiers, props, backdrops, schedule clients, sweep the floor, clean the loo, etc.

Some photographers will let you shoot! Be assertive and ask. We let our assistants shoot from time to time, but they can't use the images on the web. Its a great way to practice.

 

[hirejn]

I'm not sure a degree makes you a professional. PPA certification would definitely make you a pro, but that's because to get there you're required to pass exams and a portfolio review demonstrating perfect professional lighting techniques from paying clients, things you need years of experience to master.

If you really want to be a photographer, you must pursue mastery of light and fundamentals of photography and art. You have to give up relying on equipment to figure things out for you. This reading will give you some insight:
Secret to Professional Photography
How to Buy a DSLR
The Differences Between Professional and Amateur Photographers

 

[The_Traveler]

I'm not sure a degree makes you a professional. PPA certification would definitely make you a pro, but that's because to get there you're required to pass exams and a portfolio review demonstrating perfect professional lighting techniques from paying clients, things you need years of experience to master.

If you really want to be a photographer, you must pursue mastery of light and fundamentals of photography and art. You have to give up relying on equipment to figure things out for you. This reading will give you some insight:
Secret to Professional Photography
How to Buy a DSLR
The Differences Between Professional and Amateur Photographers

His views on the difference between professionals and amateurs are arrogant, self-serving and ignorant.

 

[robbins.photo]

I'm not sure a degree makes you a professional. PPA certification would definitely make you a pro, but that's because to get there you're required to pass exams and a portfolio review demonstrating perfect professional lighting techniques from paying clients, things you need years of experience to master.

If you really want to be a photographer, you must pursue mastery of light and fundamentals of photography and art. You have to give up relying on equipment to figure things out for you. This reading will give you some insight:
Secret to Professional Photography
How to Buy a DSLR
The Differences Between Professional and Amateur Photographers

His views on the difference between professionals and amateurs are arrogant, self-serving and ignorant.

Lew, you really need to stop sugar coating this stuff and just say what you think.. rotfl

 

[The_Traveler]

Lew, you really need to stop sugar coating this stuff and just say what you think.. rotfl

Yeah, I guess that excessive subtlety defeats itself.

 

[Aakajx]

Lol thanks for the replies . I know it takes time and practic. I just don't want to be another photographer. I honestly want to become a great photographer in time that people recommend. So many people I know do buy a camera and call themselves professionals. I don't want to rely on just my camera. eventually I'd like to have all that I need to be a professional.

But around here there is nothing. I'm going to be seeing a well known photographer in this area next week and she's going to help me out. I think it's a great idea on becoming a assistant though I think that would be a big help atm. So thanks for the tip.