My journey continues….
Having a camera was just the beginning…..learning to use it – both correctly and creatively is a journey …one I will always be on…
Several years ago I made the decision to join a professional body of photographers. Not because I had to (there is no requirement to have qualifications in order to present yourself as a “professional” photographer) but because I wanted to receive the recognition that my photography was at a level that was considered worthy of calling myself a professional.
Although there are lots of professional associations out there, the Guild of Photographers offered a lot of support and encouragement to those photographers who wished to improve their photography with ongoing support and training, although there is no pressure to do so. I was in awe of the talented photographers within the group, and inspired to improve my own craft – and so my journey began….
During the course of a year, and after undergoing several sessions with my mentor, I was reassured that my images were of a standard necessary to gain my “Qualified Status”, and after submitting my chosen panel of 21 images to the judges, this is what I went on to successfully achieve in my chosen speciality of dogs.
Becoming Qualified was not the end destination….it was just a part of my journey, one that is a rollercoaster…but one that I love!
Part of my ongoing professional development is to undertake workshops to improve my skills in lighting, editing, creativity etc.
As well as my private pet commissions and cat and dog charity sessions, I also enjoy taking photographs of subjects other than dogs (just occasionally!)
I particularly enjoy photographing nature, wildlife, still life….and sometimes even people!
All of these genres help me to improve my technical ability, and having a varied array of subjects really encourages me to be a bit more creative with my photography.
The Guild of Photographers hold an Image of the Month Competition throughout the year, which attracts over a thousand images and is judged by a highly experienced panel of judges.
As well as awarding deserving images with Bronze, Silver and Gold awards, useful feedback can be obtained on your images.
Certain images that receive Silver and Gold awards can then go on to be nominated for Image of The Year – a very prestigious award indeed.
I am pleased to say that I have had 3 of my images nominated since joining The Guild.
Images that receive awards also accrue points which go towards the end of year score needed to achieve The Photographer’s Bar. I was delighted to find out last week that I had been awarded The Photographer’s Bar for the 2nd year running.
Here are some of the images that formed part of my Photographer’s Bar for 2018…
Where next?
Where next?For 2019, my goal is to begin the journey towards achieving Craftsman Status. In The Guild’s own words, at this level they “get increasingly fussy and look in minutiae at all the elements of photographic understanding.
Those that achieve this accolade have demonstrated the finest technical skills and an exceptional creative and artistic eye”.
…..WISH ME LUCK!!!
I hope you’ve enjoyed reading about my photography journey with The Guild of Photographers – please feel free to comment, share or get in touch with me
If you would like to book a pet photo experience for you and your best friend, please get in touch with me at:
info@katrinawilsonphotography.co.uk