Re: [Leica] Definition of a Professional

[RBedw51767@aol.com]

Bob:

Blame it on me for starting this whole thing.  However,  I learned a lot from
it.  Hopefully others learned a few things, as well.

Last year my daughter got married and we hired a photographer.   I finally
rationalized that the $1300 bucks that I prepaid her was OK because of her
portfolio and references.    If we invite someone to be part of our family or
event they get treated as part of the family.  I made sure that she put down
the camera throughout the wedding and celebrate with us.  She danced, she
drank the champagne and she ate the food.    About 10 days later we received 6
boxes of proofs with over 500 to choose from.  In my opinion the $1300 was a
bargain.  I don't know how this price compares to most wedding events but we
were extremely pleased that she was part of our wedding.  Hope the marriage
lasts as long as the pictures!

Bob Bedwell



<< I'm kind of responsible for starting this whole thing, and believe me, when
 I declared that I was a "professional"; it has meaning FOR ME.
 I earn about 80% of my income from photography; mainly doing weddings.
 BTW the wedding photography game, while looked down upon by some photogs,
 is one of the most difficult "assignments" you can take on. It combines the
 absolutes of Photojournalism, Portraiture and Fine Art photography styles.
 My declaration of being "A Professional" was a reminder that in these
 events I am one of the MOST important people there! So I shouldn't settle
 for less money than, say, the caterer or the band. They certainly
 contribute to the party- in fact, they can make or break it. BUT, it is
 through the efforts (sometimes the superhuman efforts) of the photographer
 that allow the couple to re-live their wedding day!
 As far as "Definition of a Professional?" that wasn't anything I need an
 answer to. I make my living shooting people on their most joyous/stressful
 day. I do it in such a manner that they enjoy my company, and I share their
 joy.
 It's about handling yourself well when everything screws up, and having a
 back up plan for when it does. Or making do with half your equipment
 jammed.
 It's knowing how to get the shot.
 Everytime.
 No excuses.
 You're a Professional when you can deliver the goods.
 And the whole reason for me starting this thing was to just say-
 
 "I deserve to be paid for what I do. Because I do it well."
 
 To conclude, I am a member of the WPPI (Wedding & Portrait Photographers
 Int'l.), the PPA (Professional Photgraphers of America)- PPA has degree and
 certification programs so you can have some cool letters after your name-
 and the local chapter of the PPA, the PPANE (Profess. Photogs of New
 England). Joining these organizations didn't MAKE me a "professional", it's
 because I'm a "professional" that I joined thes organizations.....
 
 
 Enough!!!!
 
 Bob Keen >>