When I became a photographer, and I mentioned to people what I do for a job, the typical response was, “ Oh, I know someone does photography.” Well if you think about it, anyone can “do” photography with such advanced digital cameras on the market now, you can take it out of the box and put it on auto setting and go to town. The difference between “doing” photography and being an actual professional is huge.
More goes into photography than just holding up a camera and pressing a button. A lot goes into the thought process of a single photoshoot, whether it’s a family session, newborn session or a session for a one year old. I have to think about location, lighting, composition, posing, angles, staging, props, etc. So when I hear that your “Aunt Betty” or a friend is going to take photos because he or she has a nice camera, I always cringe. Most likely, “Aunt Betty” has no idea about any of the things that I mentioned above, which are all extremely important for an amazing photo. Learning all of these techniques takes some time to master, and there is a lot of trial and error over the years. Knowing how to do all of theses techniques is what makes a keepsake photograph and an excellent photographer.
So next time you're thinking about hiring a professional photographer or having “Aunt Betty” or some other friend take your family photos, remember all of what goes into a quality photograph designed to last a life-time.