Are you a Professional?
Jun 20, 2012 09:51:52 #
I have to laugh at people on the street thinking I'm a professional. I only have a D5100, nothing fancy as far a lenses and equipment. I'm sure many of you have had this happen, when someone sees you and asks if your a professional. Then ask if you could take their picture with their I-phone or P&S. I guess they're hoping that they will get that "perfect" photo to show their friends and family, or frame for the house. Don't get me wrong, I don't mind taking someone's picture with their camera. I just see so many people now days with DSLR's that it shouldn't be an expectation that you're a pro. Of course I hope you can feel free to add any experiences or strange encounters to this post. NOTICE: No tourists were injured in this segment of photographic encounters.
Jun 20, 2012 09:56:06 #
I'm a high end amateur , who occasionally makes a buck or two with his photos. I have a canon white lens and people treat me like a professional!
Jun 20, 2012 10:12:22 #
MadMike wrote:
I have to laugh at people on the street thinking I... (show quote)
It happens to me a lot when I'm just carry an DSLR with a long shaded tele. But when I look like a packrat with a back pack, a big tripod and a remote light stand, they just stand around and watch. Both can be annoying sometimes.
When asked, I usually tell them no, that I'm just doing this as a hobby. It usually prevents me from being asked to take their picture or answering addition questions.
BUT! Sometimes passerbys can be very useful, especially when in a new location where a local stranger can answer questions about the area. You can learn so much more that way.
I have asked inquiring strangers to even pose for a test shot (especially if they are an interesting subject themselves) or hold a light reflector for me.
Most seem to enjoy doing things like that and it gets them talking more freely about the area.
Just be street wise and watch your gear!
Jun 20, 2012 10:40:20 #
I think at one point it has or will happen to all of us. It did to me whole in Palatka, Fla. Back in April. I could have gotten a big head:). Started to say 'sure' a few times because they would've as close as I would come. Like dasloaf, I'm on the upper scale amateur list:)
Jun 20, 2012 13:20:25 #
A amature walking around with a big camera with a big lens just trying to learn about the camera, gotta admit though, it makes a person feel good.
Jun 20, 2012 13:40:20 #
I'm amature on some things, novice on others, not pro until I choose to get a DSLR and go to school for it or be labeled it by some.
Jun 20, 2012 14:27:38 #
Roger Hicks
Loc: Aquitaine
That's one off the great advantages of a Leica M9. It looks like a point and shoot to most people, especially with my silly polka-dotted OpTech Hood Hat over the lens. You have to know quite a lot about cameras before you mistake me for a professional.
Cheers,
R.
Cheers,
R.
Jun 20, 2012 14:28:31 #
photo guy wrote:
I'm amature on some things, novice on others, not pro until I choose to get a DSLR and go to school for it or be labeled it by some.
your fire dept pics are great..........maybe you shouldn't get a dslr, you will put all the photographers up and down western wisconsin out of biz!!!
Jun 20, 2012 14:32:18 #
I have been shooting for money for more than 40 years. When people ask me to take a picture of them I explain that my professional integrity requires that I make a charge whenever I make an image for someone. I try to do this without arrogance and in a polite way.
Tha amazing thing is how many times I have aquired a new good customer in this manner.
Tha amazing thing is how many times I have aquired a new good customer in this manner.
Jun 20, 2012 14:39:36 #
I was in Costa Rica last year and had just gotten my camera. Some young tourist on the beach ask me to take their photo with their camera. I said I would try and the guy just laugh and said "With the camera your holding I bet you take great shots".. He had no ideal, I was just learning.
Jun 20, 2012 14:41:01 #
I'm a total beginner, there is no mistaking me for a professional at any time or any place.
Jun 20, 2012 14:43:26 #
Jun 20, 2012 14:46:09 #
MWAC wrote:
I'm a total beginner, there is no mistaking me for a professional at any time or any place.
I think you under estimate yourself Mom.
Jun 20, 2012 14:52:16 #
I know what you mean MWAC. I am still learning what all the buttons on 7D do and how to change them to do what I want.Flash photography is trail and error. Mostly error. This sight has helped me the most everyone is great here, even when they get into their pissing contests over the best brands
Jun 20, 2012 16:19:14 #
jimberton wrote:
your fire dept pics are great..........maybe you shouldn't get a dslr, you will put all the photographers up and down western wisconsin out of biz!!!
photo guy wrote:
I'm amature on some things, novice on others, not pro until I choose to get a DSLR and go to school for it or be labeled it by some.
your fire dept pics are great..........maybe you shouldn't get a dslr, you will put all the photographers up and down western wisconsin out of biz!!!
Thank You so much. I like your comment. It's a good point and also makes me laugh a little bit. That's good as I needed that. Thanks.
I already have been authorized by some other depts on this side of the state to shoot photos for them if I'm in the area and there is a fire.
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