Crombie

I'm a career freelancer with experience as a photo/assignment editor. Technical excellence is a given. The absolute critical element is the individuals personality, the ability to work with people, have their trust with their full co-operation and to improvise. I've seen portfolios presented to me that blew my mind to the point of envy. But most of these shooters could not function in the real world of time lines or to the specific parameter's demanded by an editor or art director.

Consumer type photography like wedding's is fairly easily learned so the above is somewhat irrelevant for this level of pro photography.

photomom Loc: Southern CA

E.L.Shapiro ....... I appreciate the time you took in your reply and your heartfelt honesty. Photography is a tough business. It's tough on so many levels. The competition is crazy - everyone does think they are todays best. Everyone has a camera - there's a lot to be said about it today. If Sam aspires to be a professional photographer than he should be supported!!! Sam, as I say 'go for it' - get as much hands on as you can - ask you local photographers to join them on their photography jobs - join them for the editing time as well .... learn, learn, learn ..... I wish you all the best in making memories for lots of humans!!!!

Weddingguy Loc: British Columbia - Canada

[quote=npsamson]You advice and suggestion is greatly appreciated. I have not got into digital photography much through I worked with film photography long long, time ago with Nikon F3/ Olympus OM1N, and some digital with Nikon Coolpix P80 and Canon T4i.
Now I want to buy my own camera. thinking of buying Canon T7i/ Canon 70D/ I am confused which one to go for. whether T series or D series.
Buying used or New, which one is good.

Awaiting you valuable suggestion.

Thanks,
Sam[/quote


Apparently, today, you need no special training to become a professional photographer. Buy the camera that has the most automatic features . . . shoot on full automatic with natural light . . . and call yourself an artistic photographer.

"Artisitic" photographers do not follow any rules in composition or posing, so it is not necessary to know those rules.

Under exposure creates artistic digital noise . . . while camera/subject movement blur adds creative lines of light and color to your image.

Simplicity will be the key to your success . . . buy the camera . . . have some business cards printed . . . run an ad, and away you go. Forget about the foolishness of the past, where aspiring photographers worked as assistants, second shooters and apprentices for years before feeling qualified to strike out on their own . . . such a waste of time!

The only downside of the new regime of today's artistic photographers is the competition. The average household in North America has at least one DSLR and as a result, at least one "artistic" photographer.

Good luck getting a "paid" gig.

Picture Taker Loc: Michigan Thumb

A lot to it. Be a good technical and visual photographer. That is a starting point. Now find a place in the field that will have room for you to fit and a different approach so you are different and stand out. Now have enough stamina and money to survive. NOW YOUR A PRO? Make a living.

Besperus Loc: Oregon

I was a professional photographer I the Midwest. I bought an existing studio. My wife and I made a concerted effort and in the end gave up because of the cultural differences.
This is a business not a hobby. Know how to run a business first! Cameras are tools. The craft, it seems you have a head start on. Good. I found that it takes a whole tool kit though. I had view cameras, roll film cameras, and one 35mm Canon which I hardly used.
Digital has changed the face of phography. Specialize in what you enjoy! This is important. You can concentrate and know the subject...
A good computer background is essential these days. I don't mean to drop names, but Ansel Adams preached the fact the a photo is like a musical score. The finished print is the symphony.
Good luck and and enjoy the process.

Acountry330 Loc: Dothan,Ala USA

Their is no one stopping you. Get some gear, learn how to us it and have fun being a Pro. Pro's use all types of gear so use what you like. Happy shooting.

shelty Loc: Medford, OR

Sorry, my suggestion is you don't want to go there. It sounds like you have only dabbled in photography in the past, and you will have a whole lot of catching up to do. Also remember a professional photographer is usually well schooled in his/her profession. Also, Being a successful professional photographer is 10% photography and 90% salesmanship.
Been there, done that.

rplain1 Loc: Dayton, Oh.

No - that's the only sure way to lose money in photography - you are not going to sell it for what you already paid for it!

rplain1 Loc: Dayton, Oh.

My apologies - I should have said that is a sure way to lose money. But it certainly isn't the only sure way.

amfoto1 Loc: San Jose, Calif. USA

T7i is one of the Canon Rebel Series models (you referred to them as "T-series", which you're already familiar with, using a T4i). It's the current top of that line, in fact.... 24MP and a pretty decent little camera. The Canon Rebel series models are great for beginners through moderate enthusiasts. A lot of camera for the money. But I would not call them professional grade. For example, they use lower specification shutters... top speed 1/4000 and 1/200 flash sync... probably most rated for around 75,000 actuations. In addition, Rebel series generally have slower continuous frame rate, more "shutter lag" and smaller buffer.... all of which might be a consideration if shooting sports/action. The Rebel series are also a bit more plasticky and less well sealed for dust/moisture resistance. And they use a penta-mirror arrangement, instead of a true pentaprism, to save cost and weight. This makes for slightly less bright, slightly smaller, slightly lower magnification viewfinder.

In generally, the "D-series", as you call it, are a step up from the Rebel series. One exception is the 77D, is the same camera as the T7i with slightly different readout and controls. Canon sort of went off-script wth the naming of the 77D... Where the Rebel T6i was superseded by the T7i, the T6s has been superseded by the 77D. Now, to be clear, I'm sure a pro shooter could make good use of a Rebel series caemras and make fine images with one of them. However, they are basically a beginner to intermediate enthusiast grade camera, with more automation and less direct access to various manual controls.

The 70D is actually a discontinued 20MP model. The current model is the 24MP 80D. These models are the "real" first step above the Rebel series (since the 77D is actually a Rebel model). As such, they've got a higher specification shutter... rated for about 100,000 actuations, with top speed or 1/8000 and 1/250 flash sync. They've also got a bit faster frame rate, larger buffer and shorter shutter lag. And they are better sealed and use a metal internal frame (though externally they are plastic-clad). Intended for entry level pro or more advanced amateur work, these models still have some automation, but give ssomewhat more direct access to various controls. They also use a true pentaprism for slightly brighter, larger, higher magnification viewfinders.

The 70D, T6i and T6s all used a 19-point AF system that's sort of a dumbed down version of what was introduced in the original 7D. The 80D introduced a new, upgraded 45-point AF system that's now also used in the T7i and 77D. It's able to focus in lower light and is "f/8 capable", meaning that there are more options to use teleconverters with various lenses, and still be able to autofocus. The earlier models were "f/5.6 limited" and AF starts to struggle and fail about 2 stops brighter light than the newer system (the new models are rated for approx. -3EV, compared to -1EV in the earlier models).

Among the Canon APS-C models, the 7D Mark II is the most pro-oriented. It is more durable, rated for 200,000 shutter actuations, with a mostly metal clad body (magnesium), more sealing for dust and moisture resistance, dual memory card slots (1 SD, 1 CF), bigger buffer, 10 frame per second continuous frame rate, shorter shutter lag. It uses a unique 65-point AF system that's -3EV and f/8 capable, too (though in 7DII it's f/8 at center AF point only... while 80D et al are f/8 capable at up to 27 of their AF points). The 7DII's AF system also is much more user-configurable and customizable for specific purposes, and it's supported by a discrete chip (like 1D-series cameras), instead of sharing all the camera's processing duties through a single processor (7DII also has dual image processors, 1D-style, to support the high frame rate). 7DII uses a 20MP sensor that's an updated version of what was used in the 70D.

All these cameras are quite capable.... Actually, the lenses you choose may make a bigger difference, than the camera they're used upon. There are a lot of choices in the Canon system, but which you'll need depends a lto upon what you plan to photograph.

willaim Loc: Sunny Southern California

Good luck! Like a paint brush, palette and of cause paint which is a tool for an artist, so is a camera for a photographer. You didn't say what type of photography you want to shoot. Landscape, weddings, architecture or sports. Keep your day job to support income until you get the reputation and clients. As for a camera, just check them out at a camera store(are they still around?). See how they feel in your hands and what bells and whistles they have.

E.L.. Shapiro Loc: Ottawa, Ontario Canada

It makes me sad! Every time, whenever this topic arises on this forum and others, there is so much nastiness, sarcasm, pessimism, negativism, doom and gloom and discouragement. Alright, there are many helpful and encouraging comments as well but the misconceptions and misapprehensions seem to overpower and overshadow the optimistic remarks. There are always extremes of opinion; some say one needs to posses a virtually unattainable level of photographic genius and business acumen to succeed in a photographic enterprise while others say "get a camera, print a business card and take the plunge"! Both notions, without some qualification, are imprudent and defy common sense. There has got to be some middle ground and sensible approaches.

With no disrespect to the original poster in this thread, his basic question is indicative of a total ignorance of the industry. "Ignorance" does not mean stupidity or the display of rude behavior, it means a lack of knowledge.My policy has always been that anyone who is smart enough to ask questions deserves a sincere and comprehensive answer. Also to be considered is that many others, besides the OP, are reading on and they should have access to realistic and informed information, not only hyperbole and misinformed assumptions. Obviously, which camera to purchase is not a key prerequisite decision or major factor in starting a viable enterprise. Professionalism in photography is not solely predicated on equipment usage- most of us realize that.

There is always references to the high mortality rate in photographic businesses. I don't have access to statistics but I don't think that frequent business failures are unique to the photography industry nor are the rate of failures disproportionate when compare to other industries. There are many textbook causes of business failures; under-capitalization, incompetence, poor financial management, lack of a desirable product, lack of a solid business plan, little or inadequate promotional and marketing activities, appealing to the wrong market, not adapting to current trends and buying habits and more. The photography business is not immune to all the perils, changes, trends, and challenges of the current business environment. Let's face it folks, Kodak is no longer with us, many iconic retail outlets are gone and have been replaced by "big-box" stores and online vendors. Up here in Canada, Sears, one of the world's retail giants is on the cusp of bankruptcy and are closing most of their stores. Woolworth's is long gone but Dollarama is one of the fastest growing retailers in the county- they are new new 5 and dime store but they are talking dollars, not cents. Changes are affecting both high and low end price point businesses. Even in my own neighborhood, some stores, restaurants and services are thriving for years and continue to do so, while others are closing almost as fast as they opened.

So...yes, there is a proliferation of amateur and do-it-yourself photographers and there are many amateurs and part-time pros undertaking some jobs that otherwise many have gone to established professionals. There is no use in bemoaning theses things- we live in a free enterprise society and there is all kinds of competition, some fair and some not so fair. Folks are taking SELFIES all the time and technology has enabled even the unskilled to come up with decent enough images- enough to satisfy themselves. This has undoubtedly affected the low end family and baby portrait business. Shopping center, department store and supermarket photo concessions are dwindling. There is, however, a segment of the market where folks will pay generously for what they perceive as art and craftsmanship. Consumers are becoming more image savvy and I still always alluded to my belief that folks will not spend their hard earned money on product or services that they can do or produce all by themselves or with the help of a benevolent friend or relative with a camera. Theses are all the more reasons why existing or aspiring professional photographers, especially in the portrait, retail and wedding specializations need to produce and promote a very high quality level of work and service in order to succeed and sustain ongoing business. In the editorial, industrial and commercial fields, the level of quality and technical excellence is even more important as, in many cases, you will be dealing with a more discerning and professionally oriented potential clients.

EDUCATION?! The requirement for education in professional photography, nowadays is seriously underrated and underestimated. Photography aside, how many logical and prudent people would want to take the risks of not only financial investment but an enormous sacrifice of time, effort and energy while not knowing the rudiments and professional aspects of producing and purveying the product or service that the entire business is predicated on. My goodness! There are so many public and private schools, community colleges and even universities offering vocational courses in everything from agriculture to zoology and form cooking to xylophone playing and everything in between- believe me, there is lots of photography in the mix. On the job hands on experience is great but so many folks lack the basics. Perhaps, if someone is actually brought up or born into a family business and is mentored from day one, formal schooling may be optional. Yet, when I was in school and taking many other classes and seminars, I ran into many young photographers who were sent there by their families, studio owners, who wanted theses kids to learn the latest trends and technologies. Some of theses experienced photographers said that it was like teaching your kids to drive- it's better to send them off to school- they did not want the younger folks to pick up their bad habits and bring new ideas to the business.

EDUCATION?! So many advise "know your camera" Of course, all professionals in any field need to have intimate knowledge of the tools and materials of their trade. Most of today's advanced cameras have so may high-tech automated features that one may feel that one needs degrees in mechanical, electronic and optical engineering, just to operate the darn thing. When however, you strip theses systems down to brass tacks, there are only three basic control functions; APERTURE, SHUTTER SPEED, AND FOCUS. The interaction of theses function control exposure, depth of field/selective focus and action stopping or intentional blur. All of theses controls can be applied manually as well as other auxiliary features such as bracketing, exposure compensation and more. There is nothing wrong with the application, convenience and efficiency of automation as long as all of theses basic functions are understood and mastered. Much of this can be self taught, book learned, ascertained online or in a classroom setting. Much of what is sourly missing from much of theses resources are the artistic and aesthetic elements of fine photography.

Oftentimes, there is such preoccupation with all this hardware and technology that the artistry and craftsmanship are somehow ignored, left out or bypassed. I have always maintained that I can not TEACH talent or artistic inclination. I can only inspire, encourage and help develop theses traits and habits in my students and trainees I can also point out certain guidelines pertaining to composition, finite lighting, certain posing methods and other nuances that are part of fine photography. It is surprising to me, since PHOTOgraphy is essentially imaging with light, that the literature in many of the aforementioned resources include little or nothing about the physics and aesthetics of light- SEEING LIGHT! Some of this missing education is obtainable through classes, seminars and programs offered by the Professional Photographer of America and their educational arm, the Winona International School of Professional Photography.

Of course, there is no doubt as to the incredible value of hands-on, on-the-job training and experience. Problem is, that there are few if any real apprenticeship programs and actual mentoring relationships in photography- nowadays theses are a rarity.

My own early apprenticeship experience was rather unique, even for its time. At the age of 14, I approached my first mentor and eventual employer by volunteering my services, without pay, in exchange for education and experience. After convincing my boss to take me on, he taught me something that I hold as a policy to this very day. He told me that indentured servitude (slavery) was long ago abolished and that I would receive a modest stipend for my hard work; cleaning the darkroom and the washrooms, transporting heavy gear to weddings, maintaining the equipment, running errands and even taking ID and passport pictures. I said that I was quite willing to forgo the pay for the educations but he said that accepting money was part of the education. He explained that as an employee of the studio and advancing through the ranks, I would be asking for money every day. I would be writing up bills, collecting money for the passport pictures, asking for deposits when booking folks in. Revenue is part of business and even as a junior/rookie employee, I was entitled of my share based on my good work. This is a great philosophy to learn as a young person. I always pay my trainees and assistants- they work better. Some of my staff have been with me for decades and the ones who went off on their own, remained friends. We help each other out and share mutual respect and ethical relationships. When I hear all theses complains about photographers having to work for no pay or are underpaid, I find that to be a self-inflicted injustice. When potential clients tell me that other photographers charge less or work for a pittance, I never make disparaging remarks- I just explain that every photographer means well and charges exactly what they truly feel their work is worth.

I am not a big-time blogger and I don't even know if anyone reads my stuff. Some folks don't like long posts. It's just that my profession has been very good to me and my family. I was fortunate enough to have encountered good
teachers, mentors along the way and had the opportunity to serve and satisfy many nice and appreciative clients. I like to encourage young or new older folks to get into the profession and start off on the right foot. I like to advocate for my profession. I feel taht it's important to give back to an industry that has given much to me.

With kindest regards, Ed

Tim Stapp Loc: Mid Mitten

Separate the wheat from the chaf here. Find a working professional. Emphasis on the words "working professional". Approach them and ask to apprentice. If they are a true professional, they will be more than willing to share their knowledge. Work to learn. Technical is sometimes a necessity, but often times the business side, creative side or the people side is just as important. I have first hand experience in this regard.

Tim Stapp Loc: Mid Mitten

BTW, respect Ed. He has decades of experience. I would PAY to work under his tutualage!!!

Hal81 Loc: Bucks County, Pa.

I fully agree about to be a good photographer you have to be a people person. I only had one year of collage before Uncle Sam activated me into the navy. But I had one of my class's in child sociology. It really helped me in dealing with people. After all people are just big kids.