Photography became a constant in most of my projects that I completed… it made my design work more personal and interesting when the photography was original. When I asked why and they responded, 'why should we when you are here?' I’ve put together 11 of the ones I like most, even though many more could’ve been added. It’s rather freeing. Dues include $10 per non-international member as the Copyright Protection Fund assessment. But seriously just take a second to appreciate that. You can use photography to turn almost anything you find beautiful into a work of art. Being a photographer sucks sometimes, but it’s still most definitely worth it.Hope it helps. How I became a photographer… October 1, 2017 I figured for my very first blog entry, marking my 13-year professional photograversary (!) The urge to create something is inherently human. My story honestly kinda sucks for me. When you shoot a lot you’ll always surprise and amaze yourself. And a lot are gorgeous machines. They can make people sad. Through volunteering you can give something of immense value to those who will really appreciate it. Now, why would I bother taking the time to write this massive list?Well, maybe you’re just curious about photography, but aren’t sure if you should really dive into it. Shooting is a blast, and can often get the adrenaline pumping like crazy!!! We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. A photo can capture a moment, and it’ll last forever. Capture A Memory That Will Last Forever. - Federico Jr. Gamogamo, "…I love photography because the opportunities to document reality in creative ways - and quickly - challenges me. Ready to become a member of PPA? When we dedicate time and energy and pour our souls into … PPA - Professional Photographers of America There are a number of reasons that make photography a great career choice. Why I Became a Graphic Designer and Photographer CHECK OUT WHY AND HOW I BECAME A GRAPHIC DESIGNER AND PHOTOGRAPHER! Other photographers can be dismissive or disrespectful about the type of work you do. With all the beauty, joy, love, connection, variety, history, adventure, movement, emotion, and awesomeness that makes up life, how could you not be stoked to get out there and experience it?? I’ve learned so much over the years, and sometimes I wonder if I would have even started had I really understood all of the cons. Become a music photographer and you’ll get to meet the musicians and observe the inner workings of the industry. One day you may also be documenting the lives of your grandkids!! Oh yeah, and you can potentially make money from photography! Photography is like having a full-time hustle, until you become big time – then you have a rep and production companies helping you out with every step. Fast forward 6 years. It doesn’t matter if you’re young or old, what country you live in, or what language you speak. | The story begins with me as a 12 year-old youngster trying to find his way around the hectic environment of the stock market and ends with me starting a YouTube channel about design, photography, and creativity. A resignation must be received in writing, fax or email. Births, graduations, weddings, first steps—these are all moments that should be documented for family history. When you start to derive happiness from seeing some particularly awesome light, you’ll realize that photography has changed your everyday experience. And hopefully after reading all of this, you’ll see that it can give you more than you ever imagined. If you look past photography and think about what humans create – babies, buildings, transport, islands, homes, countries, political movements – pretty much everything apart from trees, animals and plant life. The deeper you get, the more you realize that it’s all about what you are interested in, how you feel about it, and what you want to say to the people who view your work. You could be out with the family at the beach or a picnic, local sports games, randomly roaming your city streets photographing strangers without them noticing, stalking wildlife, hiking up a mountain for a stunning view, or standing under the stars at 2 a.m. watching the Milky Way slowly move across the heavens. Photographers (especially the great portrait photographers) know how to see the beauty in someone that might not even see it themselves. Learning more gives more enjoyment. Join our +48,000 photographer pals, and get our very best content and freebies delivered straight to your inbox! After someone has passed, photos of them become treasured items. Photography is a fantastic gateway into anything else you’re interested in. Rather, I realized that I want to create imagery that holds meaning and serves as a tangible reminder of the love two can have for one another, in the time it matters most. A lot of photography is shared, and that’s awesome. $17.50 of domestic dues ($42.00 non-domestic) is applied to Professional Photographer magazine and is not deductible from dues. I became a photographer because I have fond memories of making pictures alongside my mom and I fell in love with freezing a moment in time." This part of photography is absolutely fascinating as a viewer, and fulfilling as a shooter. Photography is something you get immersed in (see above!). So we read all the responses, took notes, and pulled out the common themes. Shooting is obviously a blast, but there’s more to it! Photography can really connect people in that way. For the first time, I felt the validation that my career change was the right decision." Learning more about photography prepares you to capture those big moments for yourself. Most photographers, whether they are full time or not, are all looking to build a brand. I am a photographer and writer passionate about the outdoors, meaningful travel, and living deliberately. And a lot of photographers I know believe that everyone is beautiful. This is a pursuit that you will never be bored with. A photo can capture the essence of a person, sometimes in just one frame. I can’t believe I took that!”. Really fascinated by the music world? - Julie Collins. This was a life changing experience for me! Over the course of the next six months, I slowly began to become more comfortable, not only with photography, but with who I was as a person. You might not even notice when you’re shooting, but, looking at the photos afterwards, you spot that smile, that look in the eyes. You’ll see how much parents treasure photos of their kids. I didn’t set out to be a photographer. This aspect of your photography is ever-changing as you change. (Please see above for reasons why.). Especially if the photographer felt it themselves. Just ask yourself what story you want to tell, and photography can get you there. They can elicit different emotions from you at different times. You can self-learn, practice, and improve your skills without going to a formal educational institute. I knew it was likely to be a marginal financial choice, but I am happy with the decision. Practically, it’s been a huge journey from learning about my camera and loving it, to running a full time wedding photography business. Why did you become a photographer? After all these reasons, this one should just make sense. Seeing how the face changes during a laugh, or how body language reflects mood are all fascinating studies, and photography helps you capture that. The act suggests that you want to remember each other, just because. You can’t be thinking about the movie you watched last night, or what you’re going to have for dinner. It’s amazing. When you shoot you have to be aware of everything if you want to capture it. People are incredibly interesting. Photography is a way to document the lives of your kids, and that alone is worth learning all you can about it. Photography changes the way you see things. Learn More It’s like spending some personal time with your photos!! Take a look at the original responses. Photography became a career choice for me because it blended together my love of the outdoors, my desire to make things, and my interest in technology. Let’s wrap it up here. Why I became a photographer I didn’t become a photographer for the money. Or maybe you want to share your own travels with friends and family. “I became a photographer so I can tell magical enchanting stories. Unfortunately, becoming a photographer merely because of the money likely isn’t enough of a motivator. Once you start noticing details, you inevitably start to see how much beauty is all around you. I’m downright obsessed with photography, and love sharing it with super cool folks like yourself. There was so many “professional photographer” requirements I had never heard of. There’s something pretty special about being able to help people while doing something you’re passionate about. One day you may also be documenting the lives of your grandkids!! If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. Hey friend, I’m Lauren! Photography involves a lot of introspection over the course of a career. The more you learn about photography, the more you appreciate their work. He has a relaxed easy-going personality that children just love. A lot of people I know think they aren’t photogenic. The more you learn about it, and come to understand the *why* behind it all, the more you’ll enjoy it. Why I Became a Photographer. As long as you are always pushing yourself, you can be sure that photography won’t ever get dull! You don’t ever have to do it professionally. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. - Arica-Dorff, "Photography found me when I was finding myself. That’s awesome. With camera in hand, of course. However, it can add a lot of value to your career, skills, and experience as … Then, I started doing lots of free photoshoots for my friends and learning as much as possible. It’s especially wonderful when you photograph someone you love. Imagine you’re sitting around a big box of photos with friends and family. And they all have personalities of their own. We’ll start with, what we think, is the most popular reason why people become photographers. So credit for all these awesome reasons goes to our fantastic readers. Share them with us in the comments now! It can get you through the hardest times in your life. Now, there is actually a lot more to photography than just pointing the camera at something and pressing the button. To top it off, photography engages your creativity in a world where creative careers are harder and harder to come by. PPA will notify me of any dues or membership changes and will automatically renew my membership. It was quite the wake up call and 10 years later I'm still working with that league and many more." It matters to me that I capture the way you both look at each other, the way you smile and the sparkles in your eyes. As a requirement for admission to and retention of membership and participation in this photographic association, each PPA member and participant shall agree to use the highest levels of professionalism, honesty and integrity in all relationships with colleagues, clients and the general public. Gears, dials, shutters, lenses—cameras are seriously cool. You can communicate with people around the world with an image. With a photo you can capture a moment, and have it forever. Maybe you haven’t been to an exotic locale, but photos can practically transport you there like a Stargate. Then you can wonder about how others felt! What makes Annie Leibovitz’s work so great? Just get your hands on a camera–any camera–and start shooting. Please consult your own tax advisor. After you read all these reasons you’ll probably be even more inspired by this medium, and be itching to get out and shoot more! You connect with people in a completely unique way with a camera in hand and your full attention on them. Photography can be all of those things. Not many stocks can boast that. Myth #18: If you love photography, you'll love being a pro photographer. You might not always be able to pull out a canvas and some oils to paint with, or grab a guitar and start to play if a creative urge strikes you, but a camera is so small and portable that you can shoot anytime, anywhere. It’s actually quite an incredible transformation to experience. I think we take that idea for granted, with photography being so ubiquitous these days. It started as a hobby taking photos in different conferences and led to people noticing my photos. With your images you can also make people stop and think. Why is Ansel Adams such a big name? Even if you never make a dime at it, it’s definitely a worthwhile pursuit!! 12 Things I Wish I Knew Before I Became a Wedding Photographer. Let's Connect Photography is a way to document the lives of your kids, and that alone is worth learning all you can about it. We loved the experience and they loved the photos—win-win all around. It’s a blast to learn more about them, and appreciate what they can do! One very common way people get interested in photography is through travelling. And the resultant images show the love you share. So much fun can be had with a camera. Payments may be deductible as an ordinary and necessary business expense if you are in a photography related business. They can produce every emotion, from happiness, to sadness, fear and excitement. Or they can bring you waaaaay back to a time before you were even born. You rock. Your kids might not appreciate all the photos you take of them right now, but when they are grown up, those images will be incredibly valuable. That’s where you start. I am working hard at branching out on my blog posts! Whether you’ve always loved the idea of being a professional photographer or just want to take your camera skills to the next level, here are the 10 reasons to give you that final push to photography … Sometimes it takes a series of photos to express the nuances of that person, but either way photography has a way of showing those subtleties that can be hard to describe in words. The more you practice and learn about photography, the better you’ll be able to document your adventure. Creating beauty in the most random things. Rod Jovanelly has been photographing Weddings, Families and Children for over 25 years. They can capture how something felt. And that’s been my heart for my career as a creative all along. I enjoy building friendships with people whom I wanted to capture there very essence, their sparkle. You’ll always be learning something new, have new directions to explore, and new challenges to face. We are really into coffee, and got to spend an entire day touring a local coffee roastery and shooting it. Every day is filled with it—in the most ordinary or unexpected places. History is filled with incredible photographers. Practice, think about your work, and open yourself up to your experiences. Through simply showing your images you can evoke an emotion in someone else. You can see love all around!! online course! They get to come along with you when you take awesome photos! Membership commences upon receipt of payment and is for one year. As you shoot, you learn more about yourself, what you value, and how you see the world. While I was finishing my degree my husband and I found out I was expecting a baby… my D80 arrived the day after she was born. And you can connect! Suddenly you notice light, shapes, colours, textures, people, bulidings, trees, flowers…Everything around you looks different when you start to see the world as a photographer. Any payments made prior to that are nonrefundable. By submitting this application today you agree to comply with PPA’s Code of Ethics as well as PPA's Terms and Conditions as listed below: Professional Photographers of America (PPA) Code of Ethics. Whether you’re telling a story with one image, a sequence, a series, or an entire portfolio, the possibilities are endless. People credited their mother, father, aunt, uncle, grandmother, grandfather, sibling, friend and even great-grandparents. Information for Monthly Credit Card Option Applicants: By submitting a monthly credit card option application, I understand that PPA will charge my credit card monthly. The world of photography is constantly expanding. First, I’ve always loved being behind the scenes. That connection and the gratitude that pet owners have for their printed memories is what fills my emotional cup and keeps me motivated to continually refine my process and succeed as a business owner." 4. These reasons aren’t all just made up off the top of my head. Payments or contributions to Professional Photographers of America, Inc., are not deductible as charitable contributions for Income Tax purposes. You can pass it down to the next generation, and spur their love of this amazing art. …and if you really want to start with photography the RIGHT way – CLICK HERE for our easy, quick (and fun!) Join the Faces of PPA campaign, share your story and inspire your peers and clients! 8. The trinkets you buy in markets inevitably break, or clutter up your home. How an image of a loved one makes someone smile. We like to keep it a small group so we can engage together. You’re the one that captures that moment! I was so excited to spend my money on such a cool looking camera. To show that to them in the photos is an incredible gift. Here are ten main reasons to become a professional photographer: Several opportunities- The world is like a blank canvas for photographers; there are several opportunities to capture a photo. Seriously, why did you become a photographer? Or perhaps you’re into photography already. Professional photographers may work in schools, businesses, magazine companies, wildlife and beautiful scenerie, to name a few. There are so many types: film, digital, instant, toy, point and shoot, SLR, TLR,  rangefinder, medium format, large format to name a few. My husband and I were working on 10 years of marriage and raising our three daughters. I’m sure of it. I agree to inform PPA of any changes made to my credit card, such as a change in my account number. Think of us as your photo friends – we’re here to help you take great photos, and have a ton of fun together while we’re at it! We actually just wrapped up a giveaway, and asked the question “What first got you interested in photography?”. Thanks for sharing so openly everyone. After becoming a photographer, I slowed down from this crazy fast paced world and started to appreciate the masterpieces that were before my very eyes. Photography brings you into a space where you get to really witness love. But … Don’t believe me? Just a glance at a powerful image can stop people in their tracks. It’s to make you aware of the pitfalls that await you if you decide to take it on. Subscribe to our newsletter and learn how to take awesome photos, and get tons of free stuff to make it faster, and easier! Anyone can push the button on a camera, and point it at something they think looks cool. Along those lines, photography can give you a different look at the world. Simply create your PPA login below: ©2021 Professional Photographers of America. This list is still for you! Photography is a fantastic story-telling medium. You get a sense of what a photographer is like as a person by looking at their body of work. There would be a lot of talking, laughs, stories, jokes, and maybe even a tear or two. By the time I was in college in my late teens, it became the obvious choice of my heart. (Yes, everyone). Can you think of any other reasons to be a photographer? You never know when you’ll be right in the middle of a world changing event, and your camera will create the record for generations to come. After they left I thought more about the question. Photography is like music. Professional Photography is one of the very few fields where structured training is not a prerequisite. How has this community of photographers helped you grow? It’s honestly that simple to be creative. Time lapses, HDR shots, light painting and more. Photographs let you travel through time without the use of a DeLorean. With 250 responses we were able to get an amazing peek at what makes photography so special for lots of folks. When I’m not shooting, or writing, you can find me cooking (and eating! [ExpertPhotography is supported by readers. I dreamed of being a photographer and now I'm living my dream...." - Dennis Crawford, "I started as a sideline photographer at my son's sporting events and after a while, I noticed the other parents stopped bringing their cameras. Once you start getting your work out there, you’ll be amazed at the connections you make because of it. Before I hit college I bought my first fancy camera, a Nikon Coolpix. Strong stuff. Emailed resignation must come from the email address contained in the member's record, include their name and PPA ID number. I hope to use my platform online to show the beauty and complexity of the world we live in, and to encourage genuine connection to the outdoors, culture, people and wildlife. Each passing day brings you farther from that moment, but the photo holds it in place. Becoming a photographer can give you an entirely new perspective on everyday life. Or a god. 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