top of page

“Professional Photographer” What the heck does that mean?

Writer's picture: Johnny LeeJohnny Lee

Who really is a professional photographer and does it even matter?

Business Woman is Puzzled


Everyone is a photographer

Yes, you read that right! But, "how can that be" you ask. Well, the word photography comes from a combination of Greek words literally translated “drawing with light”. Making a photographer someone who draws with light, or in modern vernacular, a person who makes photographs. In this day and age, pretty much everyone has taken a photo with their cell phone, thus making them, a photographer!


What does "professional" mean?

A professional is defined as either someone “engaged or qualified in a profession” or "participating for gain or livelihood in an activity or field of endeavor often engaged in by amateurs". By these definitions anyone working as a photographer is a professional, but that doesn't necessarily mean that they are good at their job. Also, anyone who is qualified, is also a professional. Meaning that your dentist, who happens to be very skilled in photography, is also a professional photographer. (However I don't think you can hire your dentist to take photos of your anniversary party 🤷‍)


What makes a Great Photographer?


Great Photographers are Great Problem Solvers

Great Photographers are great problem solvers, flexible, and patient. A professional photographer from a technical problem solving standpoint, knows their gear and craft well. This is handy when equipment malfunctions or things don't go as planned. A flexible photographer can solve problems on the fly created by ever-changing environments and still create high-quality work. Great photographers are also patient planners. They schedule and plan so that shoots go smoothly, but also have the wisdom to know when to wait for more favorable conditions.


The Personal Touch

It doesn't matter how great a photographer is if the photographer never calls you back. No one wants to work with someone who is hard to communicate with, or disrespects their time. Dealing with clients in a professional and dignified manner is paramount in any profession. However, it is especially important to behave this way in photography as many clients feel uncomfortable in front of the camera. If a photographer is late, or unprofessional in any manner, it may make the client even more uncomfortable!


Here is what I mean by “Professional Photographer”?

A professional photographer consistently produces high quality work in the field of photography while treating clients with respect.

To arrive at this definition I interviewed two photographers I know, and combined their answers with my own feelings on the subject. (Check out the Video) After our conversations, I formulated my own definition as what is written above.

Conclusion

While the term “Professional Photographer” can mean slightly different things depending on who you're talking with, I use the term in this manner. A professional photographer consistently produces high quality work in the field of photography while treating clients with respect.


Comment Below

Let me know If you think there is another aspect of being a professional photographer that I left out!


Additional Information


About The Author

Johnny Lee shooting video at an event in Montrose, Colorado

Hello, my name is Johnny Lee and I'm your friendly neighborhood photographer. 😉 I LOVE telling stories!!! I adore traveling, exploring, and leaning new things. I hold myself to the highest standards, and try to make people feel comfortable in their own skin. I find the beauty others don't see in themselves, and can help you share it with the world. This is your story, but I can help you tell it.





57 views0 comments

Comments


Portrait Photography, Fantasy Portraiture, Family Photos, Senior Photos, Event Photography, Advertising Photography, Theatrical Photography, Headshots, Linkedin Profile, Website Photography, Promotional Photography and Video, Family Photography, Couples Photography, Engagement Photography, Wedding Photography, Wedding Photographer, Photographers Near Me, Fantasy Photography, Lifestyle Photography, Fashion Photography, Real Estate Photography, Travel Photography, Destination Photography, Dramatic Portraiture, Outdoor Photography, People Photography, Social Media Photography, Photo Editing, Photoshop, Film Photography, Film Photographer,  Film Scanning, Live Streaming, And More! Photographer, Johnny Lee,  Montrose Photos, Montrose Colorado Photos.

Montrose, CO, Delta, CO, Grand Junction, CO, Ouray, CO, Olathe, CO, Durango, CO, Silverton, CO, Telluride, CO, Norwood, CO, Gunnison, CO, Crested Butte, CO, Ridgway, CO, Vail, CO, Aspen, CO, Olathe, CO, Mountain Village, CO,  Breckenridge, CO, and surrounding areas.

Tel: 970-275-5740

Email: contact@montrosephoto.com

© 2023 by Montrose Photo Video LLC

  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • YouTube
  • TikTok
bottom of page