This is also a note on my FB page!
After reading some posts on some completely unrelated fan pages I have decided to change how I am presenting myself on Facebook and elsewhere. I read today a long litany of anecdotes about different people's experience with what is called "Fauxtography". It refers to people who either have point-and-shoot cameras and advertise as wedding photographers, or people with DSLRs similar to mine (not top of the line but not cheap either) who claim to be professional as soon as they open the box. It also includes people who use free photo editing programs such as Picnik (soon to be discontinued) or PS Elements with little to no knowledge of the program's capabilities. I honestly do not know anyone like this personally, but then I don't know that many photographers aside from on Facebook. I do know that I do not want to fall into this category.
It was very helpful for me to read those posts even though some of them were a bit scathing, and others quite hilarious, as it caused me to reflect on myself. I want to ensure that people who look at my photos and people who ask me to take their photos know that I am not a schooled professional, I do not have a certification yet, but when I do take photos I treat them as if they were my babies, making them look as professional and perfect as possible.
Trust me, if I had $5000 I would buy a professional grade camera, and if we didn't have three small kids and 1 income I would go back to school full time to feel more legitimate. I wish I had known I would have such a passion for this trade when I was actually in highschool or college and had the opportunity to follow that dream. Sadly that is not the turn my life took.
I know how to use my camera to it's full extent. When I am holding it in my hand I feel very natural. I take it EVERYWHERE (ask my friends/family!) and am constantly practicing. I know how all of it's functions work and the best way to use them in different circumstances. I also know how to use my non-free photo editing software quite well and am always taking tutorials to keep current when there is something new to learn. Unfortunately until I either win the lotto or can find someone to be a business partner I cannot claim to be a Professional. At this time I am calling myself an Experienced Hobbyist for hire. I am going to be deleting lots of albums from my page that hold snapshot type pics and rearranging into categories that best present my style. Thanks to everyone who has given me awesome feedback and who have believed in me.
