Final Words

The meaning of the words “professional photographer” has been greatly diluted over the past few years. With the rise in quality of phone cameras—and the apps that go with them—most folks can achieve artistic-looking photos. The costs of sophisticated point-and-shoot cameras are at an all-time low, due to competition from phone cameras. Finally, the drastic price drops of professional-grade digital SLRs have put pro gear in the hands of many consumers. The result: a major misunderstanding about what makes a professional photographer.

Professional SLR cameras, however, do not produce professional photographs. You do! It is a photographer’s knowledge of light, posing, the surrounding environment, and a keen eye for detail that creates a professional photograph. Sadly, the average Joe doesn’t think so.