I have this feeling that people are thinking I consider myself a "Professional".
This is hardly the case! I am so far from that word that I laugh at myself when I say it!
I consider myself to be a Novice Photographer;
nov·ice
[nov-is] –noun
A person who is new to the circumstances, work, etc., in which he or she is placed; beginner.
So what's with the watermark, you ask? I have the same simple answer as anyone else - so nobody can imitate MY image! And I don't see how that is so far out there...And I am almost positive that there are individuals out there that think I am a joke. Well so be it.
Just because I am not loaded with all the cash in the world to buy the top-of-the-line equipment {which I know & fully understand that I need}, does not mean that I cannot be PASSIONATE about something!
Who standardizes a Professional? And is it an absolute necessity to do a year of free photos and portfolio building? I suppose so. But at the same time, on the other hand, isn't our time worth something? Even if it is just a mere {and to some laughable} $50.00?
Who made the labels, and what exactly are the standards? Because I have honestly heard a million different things, coming from a million different directions. I know, I know. All I can do is what I want, and go by what I feel. Which is exactly what I am trying to do! But I can't seem to think of more than about 5 people who take me seriously.
I am not trying to step on toes, or take the easy road. Because honestly, I don't even know where Easy Road is located! It's sure as hell not on MY map! I am a hard, honest worker. I have worked for every single thing that I own. I wish I was exaggerating, but I'm not. So I completely understand why some would think I was walking around the mud hole {sort-to-speak}, rather than wading through like everyone else. But guess what? I AM! More so than most would realize! I am not working with what everyone else can afford! I am using what I can, and getting GREAT results! And yes, I am going to toot my own horn, FINALLY! Would you like to know why? Because I never do, and I never have. And when I look at the photographs I have captured, I am PROUD. I like what I have done, and above all, I am proud of MYSELF for finally doing something for ME! All I want to do, is to do what I enjoy! Why is that so hard for people to recognize?
As some others may ask, why the business name? Your answer will be found in this post...
I do not want to come across as a know-it-all, or a professional. Because I am fully aware that I am not. I just want to be taken seriously, and be respected. Just like every human being that I have ever met.
I do apologize for this rant, however, it is something that I have been holding in and needed to get out. If you have read this far, I Thank you.
I thank you for being interesting enough in what I have to say, and reading my opinions.
MUCH LOVE
XoXo
Hey lady! I'm sorry you're feeling this way! I remember feeling EXACTLY like this a couple of years ago and it's har. Sure there are lots of "rules" out there in regards to what constitutes a professional photography (some of which are completely dumb). But take things at your own pace, whatever that may be. And as long as you are living for yourself, and doing what you love - who cares what anyone else thinks, right?? Keep your chin up girl, you are doing a great job!
ReplyDeleteYeesh. People can be cruel. Apparently the mud you have to wade through will be the public? Who knew. Hang in there, the people who know you are the only ones that matter. If they aren't supportive then they can eat it later when you're big time.
ReplyDeleteSince I'm still on my Jimmy Eat World high.
"Hey, don't write yourself off yet
It's only in your head you feel left out or
looked down on. Just try your best, try everything you can. And don't you worry what they tell themselves when you're away."
I feel like you and I have had this conversation a lot lol. "What are we missing?" haha! The good news, working hard and doing it on your own will make it that much more rewarding in the end. I have NO doubt that you will be sucessful, in fact I think you already are. I admire your determination, you always push through even when it seems like everything is in the way. These critics that you speak of dont know what they are talking about. You are wonderful and I will always be cheering for you :)
ReplyDeleteWhoa. I'm sorry you're feeling that way. I think you're doing a fantastic job. Besides, I think that having your own business and having people pay for your services is what makes you a professional. What matters is that YOU take yourself seriously. Screw everyone else.
ReplyDeleteLove you.
The photo of the dog is just gorgeous. Love it! Feel free to check out my Favorite Photo of the Week Contest over at http://throughaphotographerseyes.blogspot.com/2011/05/favorite-photo-of-week-contest.html
ReplyDeleteI understand. I have a super cheap camera but I would hate for someone to steal my writing or photography that I work very hard at, even if it is as an amateur. And I mean amateur as in, didn't go to school for it, don't do it for a living, etc. Not that I down myself. And nor should you! Your photographs are great! Keep it up!
ReplyDelete