Photography Crossroads

Setting out on the pathway to becoming a professional photographer offers numerous directions at the crossroads.

Much like the story of the bluesman who sold his soul to play the blues, so goes professional photography.

In today’s world of digital photography having an eye for the image is more important than ever before. A pro digital camera is helpful to the aspiring photographer due to the fact that you gain instant images. No more heading back to the darkroom or to a film processor to see if you really got the money shot.

The gear shows you if you got the shot. In the days of film, either black and white or color producing an image of superior quality was neither quick nor easy.

The darkroom work was what separated a pro photographer from an amateur. Most professional photographers start out as an amateur with used professional gear or low-end gear.

They start by having a love affair with light and how it interacts with everything it touches.

They spend their Friday nights shooting high school sports or working free at a local newspaper just to get published.

This work will be an evaluation to see if you want to pursue this career path.

Professional photography is a misnomer because unlike many professionals no degree is required usually no license is needed.

Some ways to gain the technical skills of photography are to attend a four-year school and obtain a degree.

Another is to become an intern with a professional.

Learn the ropes and strike out on your own.

Alternatively, you can be self-taught and self-starting and go from there, in essence selling your soul to get the money shot.

Good Shooting Folks

Happy trails

Dick Bloom