What To Do?

It seems that just everyone that owns a DSLR camera today thinks of themselves as a professional photographer.  I for one have a totally opposite way of thinking.  I think those that are TRUE professional photographers have something to offer the world that cannot be duplicated by a weekend shooter.  I purchased my DSLR a little less than a year ago, and really did my homework on how to use it.  It is possible to open the box, charge the battery, set it to “Auto” and start snapping away.  If you are the type of person that just wants to take a picture to reminisce about later….fine.  I have nothing against that at all.  As a matter of fact, more power to you.  You aren’t the ones I’m talking about.  I’m talking about the ones that do the same as mentioned above, yet start charging for their services, and don’t know the first thing about leaving the “Auto” setting.  Much less knowing the advantages of shooting in RAW or when to shoot JPEG.  I wouldn’t think of charging anyone for photos until I get the blessing of a true PROFESSIONAL photographer.  I am in the process of “interning” for a very good friend of mine.  She is a fantastic photographer that captures moments, not just takes pictures.  It is through her guidance and tutelage that I am acquiring my photography education.  The more I learn from her, I know the key to making great portraits or creating the right composition is not in how expensive your equipment is……it’s in seeing the art you are trying to make before releasing the shutter.  Stay tuned….