What makes a photographer a "REAL" photographer?
The answer to this question would probably be very similar to the question, how long is a piece of string?
Yes of course, experience, people's skills, attention to detail, professional knowledge on the subject matter, ie. photography and so on. One can go on and on and produce a list that is never ending.
After having been taking photos, especially wedding photos, for over fifteen years now, you may think that I might have to much time on my hands to ask such a question or write such an article.
However I'd like to rephrase my question slightly. What makes a Good Professional photographer?
Whilst again, all the attributes I mentioned above are just as valid indeed. However when you as a couple are planning your very big day, what helps you make your mind up on which photographer, videographer, or any other service company to place your trust with? Is a photographer a really good photographer because a venue planner say he or she is? Is a "Real" photographer someone who has been established for many years, possibly more than the younger photographers just getting into the industry?
In reality there is no straight forward answer to such a question. However, yes of course there are the obvious signs to look out for.
Most importantly, has the photographer you are considering to trust have a decent experience and portfolio he or she can present to you?
Reviews from previous customers;
Possibly his or her own studio or office / location, you can visit before making making your ultimate decision;
Have you met him or her in person? Did you feel comfortable together to start with?
Was the photographer pushy in his / her sales pitch?
Did teh photographer use the sales pitch to shoot down any other photographers or their work? If so, move on, look for another.
Is the package being offered to you so competitively priced that it almost sounds to good to be true? If this is the case then it probably is.
领英推荐
Remember the sweetness of a cheap price wears off much quicker than the bitterness of poor quality!
The factor that drove me to write this article today was actually the shocking and deplorable behaviour of another so called "professional photographer."
It has been a long while back now since I learnt about another Derbyshire based individual photographer gossiping that I personally am not a "real, true" photographer. This in spite of the fact that I have been doing what I do for over fifteen years now, I am very proud of my hundred plus five star Google reviews and numerous others spread across platforms like Hitched and others.
I will not deny when I first heard about this individual it came a a real shock to me. I felt as if someone had literally punched me as hard as he could in my stomach. The situation did not improve over time when other photographers were actually also reporting to me about this situation and person.
Ironically this person who I am sure you will agree cannot fall any lower, was always someone I showed nothing other than respect too, even complimenting his work which agreed is actually quite good.
I just could not believe why anyone could fall to such a low level. I guess, sadly certain people are just born to be low and hence for the sake of this article I will just call this individual Mr. Low!
I have been accused of "Just being a DJ with a camera". Having been a professional DJ for numerous years, I have never denied actually being a DJ. Music has always been my very strong passion, still is. I have had the privilege of entertaining hundred's of events of all sizes and kinds. From corporate events, weddings, club nights, you mention it. As many people who know me well, including many other photographers, DJ's and even white collar staff will all agree that I am a very passionate person. I have always been passionate about my profession, whichever it was or whatever I'm doing.
Since my days of employment with a number of the largest corporation companies and Tier1 manufacturing plants in my younger days, I was proudly awarded numerous prestigious awards, bonuses, etc. I have never considered myself to be a bright star or a top academic.
However the secret for my success has always been my passion.
My late dad had always advised me to "do what you do, do well, with commitment and passion"
And there you have it. That is what makes a real photographer....
Passion and commitment, attributes that I have always had plenty of.
Thank you very much for taking your time in reading this.
Very best wishes and regards to everyone indeed.
Carlo Laurenti
Derbyshire Wedding Events