What is a PPA Certified photographer? Only those photographers who have passed a rigorous three-part test can earn the PRA Certified designation.
It is the difference between a CPA and just an accountant. No wait, that's not exactly true because an Accountant has to have a degree to call himself an accountant. There is no regulation on photography. Unfortunately ANYONE can buy a camera, print some business cards out on their home printer and BOOM! Call them selves a photographer. SCARY!
He or she can then get a DBA license and they are in business. Many don't even have a Texas resale tax license. These "Digital Debbies" are everywhere and coming out of the wood work daily!
They use you and other unsuspecting clients as their "guinea pigs" . They practice on your wedding. Certification is one thing that separates the amateurs from the Pros.
Always ASK IF THEY ARE CERTIFIED. Look for this logo! Or better yet go to the PPA web site http://www.ppa.com/ and see if they are certified. Or if they are even members of the Professional photographer of America.
All PPA Certified photographers must: pass a comprehensive written examination ,measuring their technical expertise. They must submit images for critical review and also submit to a reference and credit check.
Moreover, all PPA Certified photographers must participate in the continuing education program of the Professional Photographers of America (PPA) and periodically submit their work for critical evaluation to maintain their certification. This ensures that all those holding the PPA Certified designation not only maintain their level of expertise, but also continue to develop new skills and techniques.
The PPA Certified designation is granted by the Professional Photographers of America, the world's oldest and largest Association of professional photographers and image makers, with more than 14,000 members in 64 nations.
LESS THAN 3% of all photographers are Certified. The test is rigorous. Thanks to my education in photography, I passed on the first try. Those years of college prepared me. Ratios, f stops, optics, my darkroom experience and studying the history of photography prepared me.
As Ann and Denny Bishop, the awesome Realtors say ..."Were not Bragging.. Were applying for a Job." I just want you guys to know the difference. Thanks for listening!
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