Does a Camera Make you Pro?
Earlier this week I received the followign email from one of our readers – Harsh Singh – and thought it might make an interesting discussion. I’d love to hear how you’d answer it:
What I am writing to you about is a situation I run into with one of my friends. I bought a nikon d5000 a year ago, and have been using it since (that’s one of Harsh’s shots off to the right).
Every time I talk to him, he seems to put me down for using the nikon d5000, either by saying I am not a pro or a newbie even though my shots are way better than his. I don’t know what to do, I never say anything about his photography I get labeled as a newbie.
I want to share my work and frustration with DPS community and ask their opinion, does a camera really make you pro or not and what should i do with my friend? Thank you so much!
What would you advise our reader?
343 Responses to “Does a Camera Make you Pro?” - Add Yours
February 20th, 2011 at 5:54 am
I’ve thought and talked a lot about this one in my photostream on flickr: http://www.flickr.com/photos/cararosephotos/5317249830/in/set-72157624742919311/
It all comes down to, you still gotta know how to use it!
February 20th, 2011 at 5:55 am
Buying a camera makes you neither a photographer nor a pro. It makes you a camera owner.
February 20th, 2011 at 5:56 am
I find it amusing that you care.
February 20th, 2011 at 5:57 am
Pro or not is not defind by the Camera. Pros offen do have bigger cameras though. So what? Shoot with the camera you own and like and ignore that “friend”.
February 20th, 2011 at 5:57 am
A professional photographer is one who takes photos for a living… Just because you have a pro camera doesn’t make you a pro. And just because you don’t have a pro camera, that doesn’t make you useless.
For me, being a photographer is about the way you see and present the world and not about the equipment you use.
February 20th, 2011 at 5:58 am
Agreed. it’s not the camera but the operator behind the camera that makes the photo. Your friend is jealous find a real friend.
February 20th, 2011 at 5:59 am
I say its not the camera you use, but how you use your camera. I believe that a great photographer can take an amazing photo with even a point and shoot or an iphone for that matter. Its about your eye, your vision not about your tool. Do you think a mechanic is only a good mechanic if he works on a Rolls Royce? or Lamborghini? no. Its how he fixes it using his tools.
Funny cause in the last Photog mag i got the 3rd place winner went to a guy who used his iphone!
February 20th, 2011 at 6:00 am
My friends will tell me “Your camera takes great pictures.” That frustrates me so I politely explain it’s not the D7000 that makes the picture. The photograph is made in my head way before I click the shutter. To paraphrase Ken Rockwell: Would your signature be any better with a $2000 pen over a 10 cent bic? Probably not much. I further explain that I’ve spent many many hours reading, studying and practicing. Then I show them some shots I made with my old point and shoot. They can’t tell what camera I used.
The second most annoying thing I hear is: “You have a gift for photography.” My perceived skill is not a gift. It’s the product of hard work.
February 20th, 2011 at 6:00 am
Gear does not a pro make. A talented eye, artistic vision, and ambition are far more important than whether a photographer shoots Canon or Nikon. Or Olympus. Or Pentax. Or Sony. A photographer’s most important piece of gear is themselves.
FYI, he doesn’t sound like much of a “friend” if he’s constantly putting you down. Sounds like jealousy to me.
February 20th, 2011 at 6:02 am
Well I believe that Good equipment is useless if you can’t frame the picture and make it sing
February 20th, 2011 at 6:02 am
Money doesnt buy talent.
Anyone can buy a camera, but if they dont have the eye, the passion or the talent, its just a nice camera.
Your friend has his opinion, who cares! You need to concentrate on you and your work. If you are happy with it, thats all that matters!
Keep up the great work!
February 20th, 2011 at 6:03 am
I use Canon G12 while my friends use their super 1D or 5D or 7D Canon with best L Series lenses also some of them uses D300s or even D3s and D3x with best ED Lenses… Well our quality of shoots are almost the same, framing and style is almost same…
It’s the user not the camera, believe me!
February 20th, 2011 at 6:04 am
Putting sneakers on an old man isn’t going to make him run faster. Having a better camera wont improve your skills.
February 20th, 2011 at 6:05 am
No, camera doesn’t make you pro. Clients do.
February 20th, 2011 at 6:05 am
Sounds like your friend would have to Ansel Adams he was an amateur for using a large format instead of the newest camera of the day. It’s not the camera but the person holding the camera that matters.
February 20th, 2011 at 6:05 am
Any one can buy a $6000 camera and take $2 pictures. the real pro take the $2 camera and takes $6000 pictures….Buying a pro camera doesn’t make you a pro anymore than buying a race car makes you a race car driver
February 20th, 2011 at 6:06 am
I used to believe the same that the camera was what was important.. but then I read many different articles by different photographers.. who said its not the camera that matters its the photographer that makes the picture. What do you think of your own pictures? What do other people say about your pictures? If you like your photos that is what matters. Everyone has a style.. find yours and go for it. Ignore the friend.. I use a Nikon D60 and shoot Raw and get great pictures!
February 20th, 2011 at 6:06 am
The camera makes you LOOK LIKE a pro, the final photos make you a pro, or not.
February 20th, 2011 at 6:07 am
Nikon envy. Happens to me all the time!!
In all seriousness, a camera is just a tool. It takes a good photographer to point it in the right place and compose a shot. If the above shot is typical of Harsh’s work then I’d say he’s got the makings of a good photographer.
February 20th, 2011 at 6:08 am
Just ignore him. An entire film has been shot in the iPhone 4. Art can be created with any equipment,. You just got to know how to use your skills and your creativity. Be it a Nikon D5000 or a D7000, whatever. Lenses and bodies are just the tools. Painting? Now you can have all the equipment.. but if you cant use it, its useless…People just have an easy take on photography cuz its a more simpler to click a button and take a picture than to paint. Technology has given this friend of yours, (and many other people) this attitude.
February 20th, 2011 at 6:08 am
I think eye and effort make the photographer, not equipment. Envy and stereotypes exist everywhere in all aspects of life, this is nothing more than that.
February 20th, 2011 at 6:08 am
I think that what you consider yourself as a photographer is what really matters. There are many amazing photographs and photographers that use point and shoot cameras. The camera you use does not change the type of photographer you are. Depending on the type of photography you practice you might get certain types of cameras but there are also many other factors that go into what camera you buy and use.
About how to deal with your friend. It is a hard issue. The best advise I can give you is to be confidant in your own skills and not let him take you down. If you have sold your photography for money then you are a profesional. It sounds like you got this camera recently which makes you somewhat of a newbie but everyone is newbies at one point and it really is all relative. I mean a photographer that has been doing it for 20+ years might think one that has only been photographing for 5 years is a newbie.
I think you should be confident in your own skills and the fact that a camera is not what makes amazing images it’s the photographer that creates the picture.
February 20th, 2011 at 6:08 am
I’m really looking forward to what everyone has to say about this. I’ve been shooting with my XSi for about two years now. A lot of people tell me I’m really good, & I’ve been offered pay, but theres a part of me that feels like I can’t accept money from people because I’m not running around with a 5d & an L lens. I know rationally, its the results that matter the most, but I definitely understand where Harsh is coming from.
February 20th, 2011 at 6:09 am
What makes a person a pro in the photography world? In my opinion, a camera has nothing to do with it. A pro has experience, an eye for the shot, and knowledge of photography concepts. A pro knows how to get they results they want, and take photos that are both visually pleasing and excellent. I know of a person who can take amazing shots, but uses a point and shoot camera. She has been photographing as a hobby for years, and has produced amazing results that I would have never thought possible with the camera she uses. I also know of another person who thinks he is a pro, and has spent countelss thousands of dollars on camera and equipement. His photos are boring, and lack the elements that make a great photo. He has no knowledge of photography basics, although he has been taking pictures for serveral years. He is not “dedicated” to the art of photography and believes that because he is able to afford expensive equipment, that he is a pro. I would not agree. So…. in my opinion, the camera does not make you a pro. You have to look at the photographer and his work as a whole to make that determination.
February 20th, 2011 at 6:10 am
Your friend might be jealous, do they own a dslr or slr? they might feel inadequate with their own abilities or that they feel they are a better photog and therefor should be the one with the professional camera instead of their little dinky point and shoot.
A good camera is helpful to a good photographer, but a good camera does not automatically make one a good photographer. from the sample picture i would say you are most likely a good photographer.
I would ignore the friend and keep going. Everyone has to start somewhere. I’ve started as well with the d5000, and I think its a great little dslr to start with becuase it is small and light but packs the photographic power to spit out awesome pictures if you know what buttons to push. The size is also great as it does not look as intimidating as other cameras and my subjects are less likely to shy away.
February 20th, 2011 at 6:10 am
I have to jump in on this one. Sounds to me like the friend may be a bit jealous of your photos? I’ve seen some work from people who claim to be “Professionals” and use some high end equipment and not all of their photos are what I would call all that,or even ones I would brag about. I’ve seen some people also use a regular point and shoot camera and get better pics than some who use the DSLR’s. Same with lenses,yes there are lenses that will help you get a closer or clearer shot, but the person working the camera needs to know what they are doing. It doesn’t always matter what camera or lens you are using…there has to be someone behind the lens working the equipment too. I read somewhere that a good camera doesn’t make you a better photographer anymore than a new cutlery set makes you a better chef…Something to think about.
February 20th, 2011 at 6:11 am
You consider this person a friend? The sample photo is beautiful. What does this friend think, that you don’t deserve to be using this camera? If this person continues to belittle you, either stop talking photography with him/her or stop talking to him altogether. This is not how a friend behaves.
February 20th, 2011 at 6:11 am
I think that photo is amazing, pro or no.! Isn´t that what really matters? That you love what you do so much it shows in your photographs!? I don´t think it is so much about the camera as it is about the one Behind the camera!! Pros might need fancy equippment, because they shoot for a living. But keep enjoying what you do! And keep doing it! No matter what your friend says!
February 20th, 2011 at 6:14 am
I had a similar situation, an ex-gf who went to school for years for photography and had 1 model better than my camera, yet she would constantly put me and my photography down, yet all my photography was way better than hers and she hated that a “newbie” was better than her…chalk it up to jealousy…the eye makes the picture, not the camera.
February 20th, 2011 at 6:18 am
Bluntly: Your friend needs to step in to reality as the proof is always in end product. The camera is just a tool. A beautiful example is Jack White (White Stripes) in ‘It Might Get Loud’ cobbling together an instrument out of a board, a piece of wood, some nails, wire and a coke bottle. Like it or not, the man is talented and can play something amazing regardless of the tools he has at his disposal.
Use what you have, develop a style that works for you and those tools. Some of the most amazing creations come from working within limitations. There really is nothing impressive when something is made with a tool that will produce anything imaginable without effort from the creator.
Now go take some great images.
February 20th, 2011 at 6:18 am
OK, of course the talent and technical skill are critically important. Yet there IS a difference in gear and almost more importantly, there is the perception of professionalism when you encounter a client. If you show up to a paying gig with a $500.00 consumer camera, built-in flash and a cheepo kit lens, the client is less likely to want to shell out the hefty bucks thatnif you arrived sporting a $40,000.00 digital Hasselblad. When I shoot video gigs – my main source of income – I bring pro gear. Pro gear IS better, it offers more creative choices, better quality glass, more image control. What differentiates one working professional from another is more grounded in professional image and marketing than in raw talent or skill. I am not talking about “art” here, I am speaking about professionals who get paid. Trust me, knowledgeable clients expect and deserve both pro skills and pro gear.
February 20th, 2011 at 6:18 am
Try to remember it’s not the equipment that you have but what you do with it… BTW.. the photo is not showing up, just a small question mark in the center of a place holder.
February 20th, 2011 at 6:19 am
what kind of friend puts you down in regards to something you love and have a passion about? I agree with what most have replied above. The camera is the means in which you take photos, YOU take photos. YOU set up the camera, YOU set up the shot and YOU take the shot so YOU should get the credit not the camera. I started my photography with a Fuji Finepix point and shoot and although I have progressed since then, I also produced some of my best work from that little camera. So just let your friends words disappear into thin air and get on with what you love.
February 20th, 2011 at 6:19 am
I personally don’t believe that a camera can’t make you pro, cause the important think is the quality you deliver. i’ve seen a video for a couple of months ago (i think it was on DPS) a guy shooting stunning photos with his iPhone 3Gs.
I think that the most important is the photographer not the Camera. But well this is just my opinion.
P.S: You make the camera. the camera don’t make you!
February 20th, 2011 at 6:19 am
Your friend is just trolling.
You both need to get over yourselves and have a beer.
February 20th, 2011 at 6:20 am
i believe a good photographer can take great pictures with ANY camera. It’s not about the quality of your equipment it’s about ABILITY. I suspect his friend is just jealous that Harsh,s pictures are better than his.
February 20th, 2011 at 6:21 am
No, the camera does not make you a pro. Your skill makes you a pro. Your ability to consistently deliver first-rate images makes you a pro. Your individual artistry and style makes you a pro – or not. And really, if your aspiration is to make money as a photographer, the market will tell you whether you are a pro or not.
The camera is a tool, and your knowledge of how to use that tool – what its abilities and limitations are – are part of being a pro. A D5000 comes with certain limitations. But if you have taken time to get to know that camera, how it works, and all the things photographers need to know about lighting, etc., you will probably take better pictures than someone who just happened to have the disposable income to buy a D3s as an expensive toy.
That said, if you are going into business, I do think you owe it to yourself and your customers to equip yourself with the best, most versatile gear you can afford and to reinvest in your business as it grows, in part by upgrading your equipment. In the long run, it will give your more versatility and a greater range of expression. But the image is the most important thing, not what you produce the image with.
February 20th, 2011 at 6:23 am
I use a Sony A33 and a Sony A300 and have produced some great work while seeing others with higher end cameras produce sub standard work. A camera is only as good as the photographer holding it. Without artistic vision it becomes just an expensive point and shoot. You should confront your friend about this and show them the difference in your work.
February 20th, 2011 at 6:23 am
I’d advise the reader that his friend sounds like an @$$. gear doesn’t make a pro, and if your shots are better, your shots are better.
Next time you see flaws in his work, point them out. Neither time nor gear guarantee talent, creativity, or knowledge.
Also, find some new friends.
February 20th, 2011 at 6:24 am
Ha, don’t fret. There is a moderately known pro photographer specializing in ‘on-location’ shoots of models who prefers small compact cameras with some manual controls over the large format brothers due to cost, size, speed and convenience. some years back, his photos were featured in SI swimsuit edition.
February 20th, 2011 at 6:25 am
Does your “friend” work for a camera manufacturer? It sure sounds like he’s bought into all their marketing.
Ken Rockwell says it best…
http://www.kenrockwell.com/tech/pen.htm
February 20th, 2011 at 6:25 am
Simple, the camera doesn’t dictate who you are as a photographer. The reality is that you are a professional if you make money from your photography, and to be quite honest I have met professionals that can’t shoot their way out of a paper bag.
Photography is art, plain and simple and judging someone by their camera, the amount of time they’ve been shooting, whether they make money from their work or any other attribute that is not a direct critique of their photography is blatantly incorrect. Even critique is purely subjective and should be taken with a grain of salt.
Create for yourself, not others and you will always find fulfillment in what you do.
February 20th, 2011 at 6:27 am
I shoot with a D5000 i have to admit i get intimidated when i go out shooting and i see someone with a camera that has a heftier price point, until i remember if you dont know what you’re doing they’re only going to look ok. Knowing about lighting, ISO, focal length, and other basic photography skills is more important. Since your pictures look better you’re the better photographer. Just let him know you do more with less.
February 20th, 2011 at 6:29 am
Ignore him, that pretty much sums it up, anyone can buy a ferrari, does not make them a good driver, i could go out and buy a 10,000 set of golf clubs but i would still be a terrible golfer…. and i have an aunt with a d90, 80-200mm f2.8, 10-12mm, and 18-200, all i have is a d40 and 18-105mm but allll of my shots look better. Give a great photographer cheap rig and you will still get good shots, give a bad photographer an amazing rig and you will get mediocre shots…
February 20th, 2011 at 6:29 am
On another note ive shot photos with my iPhone 4 that some thought were shot with my DSLR.
February 20th, 2011 at 6:30 am
Oh gosh, no! I’ve sold photos I took with a Kodak Easyshare with 4MP. heh. I loved that camera but I just outgrew and needed to be able to do more than it could handle.
Knowing and being comfortable with the tools you have will show in your work. Changing as your skills and knowledge grows not just corporate marketing or peer pressure is a mark of genuine art professional, IMO.
February 20th, 2011 at 6:30 am
If a person would say to me that because of the camera that I have I’m a newbie, I’d direct them to the picture that just won the third place at “Pictures of the Year” competition. (“POY is one of the oldest, largest and most highly respected photojournalism contests in the world.”)
http://www.poyi.org/68/17/third_01.php
It was taken with the Hipstamatic application with iPhone.
After explaining this to the person who was saying that I’m a newbie because of my gear, I’d continue by asking if he considers to know more about professional photography than the guy taking that winning photo.
Probably not.
btw, Damon Winter, who took the photo wrote about issues like this recently:
http://lens.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/02/11/through-my-eye-not-hipstamatics/
February 20th, 2011 at 6:34 am
When people come to me for advice I tell them it does not matter what camera you use. They all pretty much function the same way. If you know how to use you camera and you enjoy what you get from it, then that is all that matters. I use a Nikon D80. It is not the best camera out there and is e few years old. People complement me on the pictures I take with it so I must be doing something right.
The best camera and lenses in the world mean nothing if you or others do not enjoy the result.
February 20th, 2011 at 6:35 am
My opinion is… I don’t wholey think a camera makes a great photographer… its the person and the way they see, you have to have a good eye for photography…
A good camera makes a great photographer’s shots a master piece…
February 20th, 2011 at 6:35 am
A pro can shoot with any camera. To become a pro, you practice and work and study. The gear is secondary at best. Your eye, finger and mind is what creates good work. The camera is just a tool. A nice nail gun doesn’t necessarily mean a better built house, either. Photographers who think gear is the most important thing, are photographers to avoid.
February 20th, 2011 at 6:36 am
“It doesn’t matter what camera you use, It depends on how you use it” – A fact with i think is true.
I’ve been using a D3000 for a year now, And i have got few pictures published”
I guess expensive camera gives you more advantages and has functions, What else?
February 20th, 2011 at 6:36 am
Harsh: As you can see from ALL the comments a particular camera does not make you a “Pro”. I recently did an exhibition with 15 other photographers. Of the 12 pictures I displayed the one that got the most attention was taken with a point ‘n shoot that I carry with me when I walk the dogs.
So, just keep on shooting…your camera is fine.
All the best,
Marshall
February 20th, 2011 at 6:37 am
Hey Newbie,
I would tell your friend in a polite way to shut the hell up. You continue to get to know your camera & improve your skills. Share your photos & take the compliments with applause & use the criticism to your advantage to take better pictures.
February 20th, 2011 at 6:37 am
Why do you really care about his opinion? I have an old D40X and take photos heads and tails better than everyone I know. My calendars sell out and I get orders for prints and requests for displays. I could get an upgrade but I don’t need it. The photos are good because of the photographer not the camera model. If he does not have the eye it doesn’t matter if he has a 24 MB camera or a point and shoot.
February 20th, 2011 at 6:40 am
Thats one hell of a shot. If your other shots are as good as this one (I cant find any other photos in that site), I don’t see how he can tell you that you are not a pro. I have been shooting longer than you with a D90 and your shots are way better than mine. Has he given any reason at all?
February 20th, 2011 at 6:41 am
It shouldn’t matter what your friend says or thinks, if it does, it’s more of an ego problem than a photography problem. Obviously a camera doesn’t make you a pro. There are plenty of pro photographers (and armatures) out there that could take better photos with a point and shoot than most people could with a high end camera.
Do what makes you happy and you’ll never go wrong!
February 20th, 2011 at 6:41 am
It’s amazing how our arrogance can cause such a strong and adverse impression upon others. Consider that only a few years ago the technology that is contained in a D5000 (or any other makers equivalent model) far surpasses the technology contained in what was the top pro model of the day, in this case compare it to a D1. In most areas of comparison the D5000 is technologically superior. The major difference in the equipment is in the body design where the D1 is much stronger. So, if you were a pro and had the choice between a D1 and a D5000, which would you take? How about if you’re no a pro?
THE EQUIPMENT DOESN’T MATTER AS MUCH AS THE RESULTS!
Read this…Since the Switch by David duChemin for a similar argument regarding brand.
February 20th, 2011 at 6:44 am
Owning a top end Nikon D3x will not make you a pro – no matter how much you wish it were so. Your pictures make you a pro. Equipment is merely a tool – it’s what you do with it that determines your professional status – or not.
February 20th, 2011 at 6:45 am
Yep, same thing with me, my colleague has D90 I had D5000, besides few buttons, AF motor and size, same machine, but he always tends to accent that his D90 is more serious and pro camera
I don’t mind when others tease me about my gear. One day my faithful D5000 will go to retirement and I’ll buy some future D500, with some awesome new feature inside, but essentially it will always be the same, camera is the machine that does technical job in process of capturing of what your eyes see and what your mind wants others to see.
February 20th, 2011 at 6:46 am
I would slap him in the face
and tell him that, ultimately its the eye and creative spirit of the person behind the photo equipment that creates the photo that matters.
Recently a photojournalist won a 3rd prize in a Photo of the year, with a photo serie taken with his iphone.
Give a one-time kodak camera to a NatGeo photographer, and am sure he will take good photos with it, better even, than your friend with semi-pro or prof. level photo gear.
like they used to say, if you have a Nikon camera doesn’t make you a professional photographer, it only makes you a Nikon owner – it pretty much sums it all
February 20th, 2011 at 6:46 am
This game (like many others) is 25% gear and 75% skill. It is necessary to invest in good tools to play at the top level. But tools alone do not take you to the top level. You still have to practice and hone your craft. You have to love it enough to practice, practice, practice. You may have access to a great location or an interesting celebrity. You still need to practice. You may have lots of money to hire a great crew. You still need to practice. You may have the gift of gab and can convince people to hire you. You still need to practice.
Never stop shooting. If you persevere, you will develop your eye and your confidence. So keep shooting with the camera you have right now. Someday, you may find that it no longer meets your needs. (Can’t shoot underwater. Can’t focus in the dark. Can’t shoot macro.) When you finally bump up against the tool’s limits, then it will be time to switch tools. Until then, concentrate fully on your next shot and strive to make it the best you can. Only through striving do we improve ourselves.
February 20th, 2011 at 6:47 am
Sorry to say this is not a friend……camera has no bearing what so ever it’s the photo taker that makes the photos.
February 20th, 2011 at 6:48 am
Your friend is not truly a friend. He/she would embrace your work as beauty if they were. It is not the camera, it is the photographer that makes you and your photos professional.
February 20th, 2011 at 6:48 am
Well, I’m pretty much a Newbie myself, but I feel that its not the camera. An example would be that some of my best shots were taken with my bridge camera, rather than my DSLR… precisely because I am a newbie and still learning how to make the best use of the DSLR, while with the bridge camera I can focus entirely on composing a great shot.
(I am getting better with the DSLR, and have recently produced some shots I’m very pleased with… but it has taken me a lot of trial and error and a lot of reading to get to that point).
At any rate, look at some of the best photographers, like Ansel Adams, by today’s standards, the camera’s he used were not that great, but he produced results that the rest of us only dream of.
I am sure the camera can be a factor… in that if you are a great photographer you will an even greater photographer with a better camera, however, if you are mediocre photographer and you get a big fancy camera with a lot of bells and whistles you can’t work, your photos are probably not going to come out as nice as they did with the simpler camera.
Just my opinion.
February 20th, 2011 at 6:48 am
Ignore your friend (He’s not really) It’s not the camera, it’s not the equipment, it’s the photographer. A few years back I was talking cameras with an acquittance (who has a very high opinion of himself) who commented ; well you don’t need that good of a camera! So I have continued to improve my equipment – for my own needs and wants and continue to take pictures.
February 20th, 2011 at 6:51 am
I also have a D5000 and have gotten some great photos with it. You do great things with a point and shoot camera as well. Anyone with money can buy a top of the line DSLR- but if they lack creativity or skills then the camera gives them no advantage at all. You said your shots are “way better” than his. I think that speaks for itself!
February 20th, 2011 at 6:52 am
Say nothing…take photographs…repeat…
http://www.flickr.com/photos/lendog64/5458622513/
February 20th, 2011 at 6:52 am
Harsh, it sounds like you need to find more supportive friends. It doesn’t matter what you shoot with, whether it’s a Leica M9 or a camera phone or something in between. So long as you are having fun and enjoying capturing moments and beautiful things with the camera, that is all that matters. That being said, the photo above is gorgeous.
I’ve had photography as a hobby for four years now and have been shooting with a Nikon D60 most of the time. I tend to think of a “pro” as someone who does it for money, but even though I’m not exactly new to the craft, I have a hard time labeling myself anything other than an amateur when people ask me what I’m passionate about. Bottom line – it’s sad that we feel a need, and others do as well, to put labels on ourselves and place ourselves in boxes.
I might take a totally “newbie” set of shots one day and then the next day take something that could be considered gallery quality. Regardless, I had a good time both days. I think labels either force us to feel bad about what we do or they put undue expectations on how we shoot each day.
Whether it’s photography or any other part of life, it’s important to surround ourselves with people who are supportive so that we feel encouraged to grow and just get out there an enjoy life, no matter what gear we are working with.
February 20th, 2011 at 6:53 am
The only thing that counts is the results. Buying an expensive typewriter doesn’t make you a novelist.
February 20th, 2011 at 6:56 am
Your camera doesn’t matter.
http://fstoppers.com/iphone/
(Well, the only time camera matters is if you’re trying to shoot something on the fringes of what can be done like low light action shots then you’re either getting a lot of noise or dumping a ton of money on a pro camera with great iso performance and a fast lens. In basically every other situation, it’s just an irrelevant detail for people who don’t know photography to harp over.)
February 20th, 2011 at 6:57 am
I like the following exercise: pick a cheap point-and-shoot camera and search flickr photos taken by that camera. What do you see? Lots of poor snapshots, but also a galaxy of amazing pictures. Not just a lucky capture here and there. But a lot of consistently well thought-out photos taken by the same photographers. Now do the opposite: pick a high-end camera and start looking. What do you see? Lots of excellent photos, but also a canyon of bad ones?
I guess what I’m trying to say is that there is a correlation between quality of photographer and quality of camera, but correlation does not imply causation. The one comment I hate to hear when talking about gear is “this camera doesn’t take a bad picture.” To which, if I weren’t biting my tongue, I would like to reply, “yes, but you do.” Anyway, as avid photographers, we all know that the camera has nothing to do with whether we look like pros…it’s all about the glass.
February 20th, 2011 at 6:59 am
Whether or not owning a camera makes you a “pro” isn’t the issue here. It seems to me the issue is your “friend”. Friends don’t belittle, taunt, insult or negate. This person isn’t your friend, and I’d go so far as to say they are radioactive; poisonous to be near.
Seek friends who support you, your work, your talents and your efforts.
That said, offer your views on other’s work only if directly asked.
February 20th, 2011 at 7:01 am
In a simple word…no! A pro is someone who makes his/her living as a photographer selling his/her product. The camera is an instrument to capture the art. I’m a newbie…so what? Does that make my vision of art less than someone who has a degree…photog business….or gets cold hard cash for using a camera and Photoshop?
The eye of the artist is the most important…the vehicle that displays the art is not what makes someone a “pro”. Many people have great shots right from the point and shoot.
I do a lot of animal photos..mostly dogs in action…I recently was at an event where a “semi-pro” asked me when I was going to upgrade my Canon 40D…my response….I rather “upgrade” my glass than my camera. She went off in a huff as if to say…I own a piece of crap and will “never” make it as a “pro”.
I do the best I can….and if I like my work and others see what I was trying to convey…who should judge if your pro…or no
February 20th, 2011 at 7:04 am
I would say start by rethinking about who are your friends.
To the point, the camera will never make the pro or the picture.
You see people using “PRO” cameras to create poor results and some very talented people create great pictures using simple P&S cameras.
Are you happy with your pictures?
Do you find any real areas where it is limiting you?
If your are happy with your work then your camera is the one you need and don’t let anyone else tell you otherwise.
Erez.
February 20th, 2011 at 7:05 am
The answer to this question is really subjective, I’m sure everyone has their own ideas regarding this. My personal opinion is that a camera does not make you a pro, it comes down to experience and/or talent. My friends and I personally believe that you are a pro when you actually make half way decent money by doing what you do. I believe a pro can take good photos with whatever decent quality camera they have, however the better the camera obviously the easier to take those good shots, and not as much work is involved.
I have met “pro” photographers that don’t even understand the basics of their cameras or lighting, and still make money by taking photos, even though sometimes I look at their work and wonder how.
Some people have the gift, and some people develop a talent through experience and hard work, and then there are others who no matter how much they try and how many pictures they take just do not have that knack. But hey as long as they enjoy it and have fun, then who really cares.
My personal advise (for what it’s worth), ignore what your “friend” says to you, he may be putting you down as a way to make himself feel better about his pictures. If you cannot ignore him then consider finding another photography friend or confronting him and advising him that you don’t appreciate those type of comments.
Personally I have a lot of photography friends that I go out and take photos with. The ones I still go out with are the ones that always encourage you, and the ones that we put our heads together and learn things from each other, have a mutual respect for each other and frankly just love to go out together and take pictures.
Yes I make a little money now taking pictures, but I’m not sure I would say I’m a “pro” photographer, perhaps a semi-pro. All that really matters in the end is the fact that you love doing it, that have fun doing it and that you continue to learn and grow with it. I don’t think anything else really matters, and if we focus on all the other static to much it will just takes away from the overall fun of photography.
February 20th, 2011 at 7:06 am
How many photos did your friend sell last year and how much income did he make from his photography? How many photos did you sell and how much income did you make over the previous year? The answer to those questions, will determine who’s a “pro”, and who is not. All a “pro” is would be a “professional” aka someone who makes their living (or income) from the craft. Heck, look at somebody like Chase Jarvis who takes better photos with his iPhone than most could ever possibly manage with their 5DMKII or whatevers…
I’ve been selling my work for the last 3 years, and I’m still shooting with a Rebel XT (8MP) body. {shrug} It’s all on L glass, but you should see the “looks” I get from some supposed photogs whenever they see me pull the body out of my bag as I’m preparing for a shoot on location.
A camera is a tool, nothing more, nothing less… and as the saying goes, only a poor craftsman blames his tools.
Your “friend” is being a total tool!
February 20th, 2011 at 7:07 am
I share your frustration. I have a photography business as a side job, not my full time career. I was recently told (by someone recently enrolled in a photography school) that “everyone who owns a nice camera thinks they’re a pro and it makes it more difficult for the REAL photographers”. I think there are many levels of photographers – from newbies to pro. I don’t think any level is more “real” than the others.
February 20th, 2011 at 7:09 am
I do not believe that using a certain camera, or level of camera, makes one a professional.
First of all, claiming to be a “pro”, in my mind, means that you actually make money (profit) from your photography. It is your business, not your hobby. And you have trained or studied to develop your knowledge and skills.
It is the knowledge and skill that allows you to take advantage of the many features of various cameras to create beautiful photographs.
There are many “amateur” photographers who make wonderful photographs; and there are some “professional” photographers whose knowledge and skill is less than that of some “amateurs”. In my mind, a label is irrelevant. It is the end product that counts!
Are your photographs artistically pleasing? Are they technically good? Excellent. Enjoy what you do regardless of what friends say (good or bad).
Sure, some cameras have features that will help you to make technically better photographs (e.g. in low light situations), but technology will never replace art. It is a tool to help you create.
February 20th, 2011 at 7:13 am
of course not!
a camera does not make a photographer any more that cookware makes a chef!
February 20th, 2011 at 7:13 am
i can buy a stethoscope and surgical tools, it doesn’t make me a surgeon. I’ve seen pro photographers get remarkable results with inexpensive equipment and that’s what makes them pros – results.
February 20th, 2011 at 7:13 am
here’s a little post I made about this subject on my blog: http://avcreports.wordpress.com/2011/02/19/does-a-camera-make-you-pro/ Read if you’re interested
February 20th, 2011 at 7:14 am
Sure, talent will out, the best camera is the one you have with you, but pro gear costs more because the equipment is better and more robust. I’m sorry, but it’;s all about the glass. Real working pros agree that it’s the talent but we all cherish our wonderful glass and that simply costs more. When you buy professional gear it can last a career. I am still using fast Nikon primes I bought 20 years ago. In the long run it is cheaper to buy quality, since it takes sharper pictures and can stand up to the rigors of daily professional rough use. There is simply no substitute for quality. Buy used if you must but get the good glass. People saying it does not matter are simply wrong. Trust me Leonardo and the Masters obtained the most excellent tools and materials available.
February 20th, 2011 at 7:17 am
It sounds to me like your “friend” is jealous of your success and insecure about his or her own failure.
February 20th, 2011 at 7:24 am
Tools don’t make a carpenter, Cameras don’t make a photographer.
Most people fall into Three Categories:
Pro only means it’s what you do for a living.
Amateur means for the love of.
Newbie is just a beginner.
-Brandon
February 20th, 2011 at 7:25 am
Clearly the type of equipment someone carries does not make that person either a pro or an amateur. However, I find it equally preposterous when experienced photographers say, “it’s not the equipment that makes the photographer.” Whilst it is true that handing some a pro kit won’t make them a good photographer, much of what we do as photographers is learning the equipment and making it do the things we need it to do to get a good shot. The better the gear, the more the photographer is able to accomplish (in most cases), but that photographer needs vision and skill.
I suspect what this “friend” (and I agree with the other folks who have said he doesn’t sound like much of a friend) is trying to say is that you could accomplish more with higher end gear. Ah, who am I kidding, the guy’s clearly just jealous of your talent.
February 20th, 2011 at 7:29 am
i wish harsh had a friend like mine. i only have a kodak point and shoot but a professional photographer friend of mine has encouraged me with the words, “you are too good a photographer to be limited by such equipment.”
February 20th, 2011 at 7:35 am
It sounds as though your friend is a little jealous of your work. Thank him for his opinion and take comfort in knowing your talent is greater than his. What ever equipment you have is more than adequate until it malfunctions or your skill/needs exceed your equipments capabilities.
Keep up the good work.
February 20th, 2011 at 7:36 am
Here is a “pro” photo journalist that uses exclusively Oly point and shoots… http://www.robgalbraith.com/bins/multi_page.asp?cid=7-6468-7844 soooo… don’t let the box define you, let your work define you.
February 20th, 2011 at 7:39 am
simply put, your “friend” is an idiot.
February 20th, 2011 at 7:40 am
Harsh, let me quote a small story for you!
Wisdom:
A turkey came to a bull to discuss about his problems. He said: “I would like to fly to the top of that tree but I don’t have enough strength to fly there”. The bull advices: “Why don’t you eat my droppings, since they are full of fibers and vitamins. They will give you enough strength to fly to the top of the tree!”
So the turkey starts to pop the droppings and feels revitalized! Next day, he is able to fly to the lower branches already. After a few days, he had enough strength to fly to the top of the tree. As he sits there, admiring the beautiful view from there, farmer sees him from far and shoots him down from the tree!
Lesson: Bullshiting can get you to high places but can’t keep you there for long!
Lesson in this context: A better camera can make you “look” like a pro, until someone with a point and shoot comes along with an “eye for the right shot”.
February 20th, 2011 at 7:41 am
This topic is just in time. I have been using my Olympus E400 for more than 3 years now and though it is the smallest dslr camera, I feel like a pro when I’m shooting with it. A few days ago, my sons FUJIFILM FINEPIX S9600 digital camera suddenly got my attention and I tried toying with it since it is for me just a toy. To my surprise, it is not at all that bad and can even be at par with most dslr in the market. You can check out my page on facebook Leo Mangubat Photography to see what I mean. I am also even proud to let people know that I also use a FUJIFILM camera which in the first place is not even a proper dslr. We can never underestimate what a camera can do, and the same goes with the man behind the camera.
February 20th, 2011 at 7:41 am
no way does the camera make you a pro.its the photographer that makes the pro.
and I would advise you to find a new friend who doesn’t seem to be so jealous of your work. just keep shooting
February 20th, 2011 at 7:45 am
I started freelancing with a Nikon D80 and was able to successfully launch my photography business. Some of my favorite pictures were taken with the D80. I did upgrade to a D700 as I was starting to run into limitations with the D80, specifically with low light photography as the D80 just does not perform well with high ISO. A camera is a tool and “what” you shoot will determine your equipment needs. Also, the reality is that launching a successful photography business (aka becoming a “professional”) is as much (if not more) about marketing than photography. Shoot with what you have until your business needs dictate an equipment upgrade.
February 20th, 2011 at 7:48 am
“It is a poor workman who blames his tools”
Ever seen Amish furniture? Made without power tools? Gorgeous stuff – more “professional” than alot of stuff out there these days.
I have a neighbor who kept telling me “your camera takes such nice pictures”. She’s quite the baker and is recruited to make birthday cakes for all her family and many of my kids friends in the neighborhood. I finally said to her, “wow your oven bakes such nice cakes” She eventually realized how insulting she was being when she put it on my camera.
Also – there’s a great article about John Isaac in the most recent American Photo magazine -who is a former UN photographer turned wildlife photographer – who shot many of his shots with an old Olympus 5 megapixel camera . . . worth a read.
February 20th, 2011 at 7:50 am
Huh. I make a good chunk of change as a (nature) photographer. My “go-to” camera is a D5000 – easy to grab & go. I’ve also sold a bunch of iPhone pics. Much like Mully410, I also get the “your camera takes great pics” comments, even from other photographers. Then they ask what I use. I love the befuddled look on their faces when i say my iPhone.
Be happy with your own work – don’t worry about what others think. Do what you love with a camera you’re comfortable with, and your work will show it.
February 20th, 2011 at 7:52 am
You gotta admit… perception is reality… a ‘big’ camera makes people move out of your way for pretty much any shot… if you don’t look serious, some people just won’t take you seriously…
your photo is amazing… and everyone commenting is on the same page… it’s sad that people can be so shallow, and try to criticize our work because of how the equipment looks… very shallow.
Keep shootin’!
February 20th, 2011 at 7:53 am
I actually put this one to the test back in the “film” days. A buddy of mine was a Leica shooter and thus claimed all images from Leicas were superior to images from any other camera. So with indepndant judges we set off. He with his M4 me with my Nikon F5.
Any one care to guess who won?
The camera does not a photographer make. Ive seen great images from Holgas and terrible images from Hasselblads. Every thing depends on the person operating the eqquipment.
February 20th, 2011 at 7:57 am
Put a $40,000 camera in my hands, my photos would look a little better (after I learned how to operate it). But sports illustrated would not be asking me to shoot the cover. Get the best gear you can afford. Practice and study how to use what you have. Enjoy every click.
February 20th, 2011 at 8:01 am
The most importend thing of a camera stands a couple of inches behind it
(Now,.. who said that, really, i forgot..)
Happy shooting,
Ridder
February 20th, 2011 at 8:04 am
I am not a Pro and nobody to shout my opinion on other, but I can share my experience here. You see if it helps. Pro photographers are people who take a good photograph that express their imagination to rest of the world in an unique way. And to take a good photograph, there are so many factors that includes composition, light, angle, time and last but not least the processing those information on a film/digital memory. Other than last point, everything else does not depend on camera. So a pro (more expensive) camera can just do things faster or easier to get the same photo. But without imagination and mastery of composition, light setting, timing, none can be a pro with the best or most expensive camera in their hand.
Again, I don’t get affected by peoples opinion, especially when they criticize without any constructive reason to move forward. It’s better if you do so and ignore your friend. Thanks and enjoy your photography.
February 20th, 2011 at 8:06 am
I get the same feeling too. Nikon D5000 may not be big or may not have many buttons on it and yeah it is not rock solid like the D3X but it takes amazing pictures. I love my camera
February 20th, 2011 at 8:06 am
I always say “the image is not in the camera, the image is in the photographer”… in the fine art industry, it doesn’t and shouldn’t matter what camera/technique you use as long as the image satisfies its purpose. However, in the fashion/food/advertising industry, unfortunately, clients do care what camera you have.
February 20th, 2011 at 8:14 am
I’m shooting with a D5000 myself. Last big workshop I went to, I had the lowest end camera there (everyone else had 5D Mk II’s or better). Guess which person had their photo published?
It’s not the camera. It’s the photographer. Gear wise, in order of importance:- Lighting (could be natural though), lenses, then camera body being the least important. The greatest gear in the world won’t help if you have no vision.
February 20th, 2011 at 8:15 am
If what you do brings you joy and you have pride in your work, then the camera doesn’t matter, only the heart behind it!
February 20th, 2011 at 8:17 am
“The best camera is the one that you have with you.”
Lets not forget that the definition of Pro is someone who earns money doing whatever, this would normally mean you make money from your photography business, and of course you will put that money into gear so you can improve your image quality, or upgrade to a tougher body or whatever – the same with lenses, buying faster glass.
Equipment and the technical element is 50%, Creativity is 50%. I encourage you, if you can, to do what I do with many people, just go out somewhere and go for a photo walk, but swap equipment, let him use your camera and give him some ideas on how to take a photo, and you use his equipment and he can give you guidance on how to use a certain lens.
February 20th, 2011 at 8:17 am
Had a friend of mine tell me, ‘wow, your camera takes beautiful photos’ and my reply was ‘like your trumpet makes beautiful music?’ and he immediately apoligized. LOL. Keep shooting with whatever. If you make money, great, if you make beautiful images, even better. If you enjoy what you do, keep doing it.
February 20th, 2011 at 8:18 am
If you make a living from your task you are a pro. I used a Canon Rebel XT for years working with professional photographers before I could afford to upgrade to a 7D. Who care’s what you shoot if your results are appealing.
February 20th, 2011 at 8:22 am
keep the camera and the good work, get a new friend.
February 20th, 2011 at 8:32 am
Ask him if he thinks Hemingway was a professional writer because he used an expensive typewriter..
February 20th, 2011 at 8:33 am
The doesn’t define if you’re a pro or not.
Like a lot of people already said.
It’s pretty stupid of that friend to say that he isn’t a pro.
If you’re pictures are great, why should you buy a Nikon D3X?
I have a D3000, just because I want to learn how to use a SLR and slowly go to a D7000 or something.
Don’t know yet.
But still, I know a lot of people who’re having the D3000 as well.
And really, our pictures are good too.
What I’m trying to say is that the camera doens’t make you a pro, it’s you.
You’re composition has to be good, the colours have to be good and so on..
Don’t listen to that friend, he’s not right!
February 20th, 2011 at 8:37 am
No, the camera doesn’t make you a pro but a comment like that DOES make you an idiot!
February 20th, 2011 at 8:40 am
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard “That’s a nice picture, you must have a good camera”. I have a very old Point & Shoot with lots of scratches and dents.
February 20th, 2011 at 8:58 am
The only reason you need to buy gear is when you need it, not just want. I do paying jobs but I don’t put “professional photographer” on my site
February 20th, 2011 at 9:15 am
I’d say don’t sweat it… there will always be critics. The only way to avoid most criticism in photography would be to conform to a single view of photography… what a bland world that would be. More topographic photos of beaches aren’t needed.
Sometimes the best thing in the world is constraint. It makes you think. It makes you explore and it brings about opportunities to be creative.
Then I’d ask myself is he’s really a friend… or an acquaintance.
But mostly I’d just continue with my own mission in life and not be dragged down by some person who has an agenda to be unsupportive of your work.
February 20th, 2011 at 9:16 am
It’s never the camera, it’s the talent. However, having a “non-pro” camera can still let you take amazing shots, a pro camera in the future allows you to expand and apply the knowledge you have gained with the “non-pro” camera. But other gear should also be considered, like lenses and speedlites.
February 20th, 2011 at 9:19 am
Your friend is an idiot. The D5000 is a fine camera.
Its natural to want better gear as our skills improve, but its not always a necessity.
I saw a piece on TV magazine show many years ago that covered a swimsuit model shoot. One of the highly respected, professional photographers featured was shooting with a little instamatic camera. The lighting was natural, with some reflectors, but his camera was basic. Less than basic, really. And his images were fantastic.
Its your eye. And your eye is good. Keep shooting.
February 20th, 2011 at 9:41 am
A big-time expensive camera does not make a pro photog any more than a big expensive set of pots and pans make me a master chef! Your camera is working well for you and it looks like you know how to use it well!!
Keep doing what you’re doing cause you are doing great!
February 20th, 2011 at 9:47 am
Let me guess. The “friend” owns a Canon.
February 20th, 2011 at 9:51 am
I disagree that being a pro is one who makes a living at photography. I understand that is the definition, but there are plenty of folks out there who are “making” a living but still make lousy photographs. So they are professionals but not very good at it. You don’t mention if your “friend” is doing this for a living or doing the same way you are. I find that often those who are quick and eager to criticize are making up for something they lack, and putting you down makes him feel more important (to himself). If you enjoy what you are shooting, are learning every time you photography and making the best possible images, then it doesn’t matter what he says. It all about what you think of your work, and what those folks you are making the images for think. Like others have said, having a big, expensive camera makes you a camera owner. Knowing how to USE the camera makes you a photographer (and how to use lighting, composition, etc). It doesn’t matter how big, expensive, small or cheap the camera is. It’s the person behind it.
February 20th, 2011 at 9:58 am
And Shakespeare must have had a really good pen! Of course the camera does not make you a pro. As I always say: Your most important photo gear is what’s under your hat!
February 20th, 2011 at 10:13 am
Hello Harsh, in case you are reading this. Your friend needs some tough love and reality check.
He is just plain jealous of your talent or so it seems, else I really can’t understand why any fellow who pursues the art of photography would state what he did. The gear is an aid to the realisation of a vision. Period!!
A better camera model would allow you greater flexibility and control but how you compose is all you, not the camera.
PS: am a newbie myself and I would love a D300 but can’t imagine yet how it will change what I shoot with a D3000.
February 20th, 2011 at 10:14 am
If it looks good, it IS good…doesn’t matter what you use. Some of my best shot were with a point n shoot Sony.
February 20th, 2011 at 10:45 am
Although to the eyes of general people a big, expensive and pro gear makes you “the professional one” to people that should understand about photography, like your friend, the camera does not makes the photographer… My first photos were with an old digital camera and I have better photos than people with better cameras and I still surprise people when they know that was with a point-and-shoot.
It does’t matter because sadly you will always find more friends putting you down than encouraging you…
February 20th, 2011 at 10:46 am
I have a few friends like that too… just because I started photography much later than them, they never acknowledge my works, condemn my Flickr site, and saying that the only good thing about my works is that they were taken by a Canon 7D (they use Canon xxx and another uses D90).
Never mind your ‘friend’. I always tell myself that if a picture is not good enough for others to see, I’d still love displaying my works as my computer wallpapers
hey as long as I enjoy taking photographs no one should stop me right?
February 20th, 2011 at 11:37 am
My canon should be used by a pro, sadly it lucked out and got me instead.
February 20th, 2011 at 11:53 am
the camera is never an indicator of the strength of the voice of the artist. your content should speak the most. instead the camera is tool to voice through which the artist can express themselves. if your friend has any problems with that tell him i have a canon 10d.
February 20th, 2011 at 12:02 pm
Don’t feel bad I shoot with a d3000, and it actually made me have a better appreciation for the art, oppose to having an expensive and me thinking it was the camera.
It’s all about perspective and how you the view the world.
It’s called a viewfinder and you must find the view.
February 20th, 2011 at 12:04 pm
Dear Harsh, your friend is right, that D5000 is what’s keeping you from being a pro. I would be happy to help you with your embarrassing problem, send me that horrible camera downhere to Venezuela as charity, so I can substitute my poor Canon compact and stop being less than nothing for your smart friend. Then, go and buy a Full Frame, to gain some respect from the people whose opinion you care more than your own one. And please, check my Flickr and tell me if I make better pictures than your friend, I would be most happy.
February 20th, 2011 at 12:14 pm
Photographers come in all shapes, talents and attitudes. Ignore your friends remarks and keep doing what you love with your camera. I’ve seen newbies who look down on other photographers equipment just because they are older models, not realizing the people they look down upon are well known and recognized photojournalists who get paid at least $200 per hour. I also had that experience when someone commemted “oh thats just a D200″..him not knowing i also own a d300 and a d700…. i never felt better when i saw his work in his website and my 13 year old son said “Dad, i can shoot bettter than that” ….So like everyone says, its the eyes behind the lens not the camera brand and model…keep shooting..
February 20th, 2011 at 12:24 pm
Like everyone else here, agreed!
I get heat sometimes for using a D90. If I upgrade my camera, the pictures aren’t going to magically look any better. Sure, pro-level cameras have features and capabilities that cheaper cameras don’t but cheaper cameras are have the feature of being lighter and more agile, easier to hide, and of course being cheaper. If I’m shooting in a shady neighborhood at night or near water, I won’t worry as much and will more freely take the photographs I want.
I’m sure I’ll upgrade one day, but probably not because I “need” to. You can think about it this way, 5 years ago pros were using cameras that could not outperform your D5000 in terms of image quality and they were doing just fine.
Just tell them, “Hey that’s funny, your pro-camera doesn’t take as good pictures as my cheap plastic consumer camera. That’s really weird?! Doesn’t make sense at all!” =D
February 20th, 2011 at 12:46 pm
A pro is not determined by his tools but by his work product. My original instructor about forty years ago could shoot a masterpiece with an old fashioned brownie. (for the younger folks- an inexpensive camera with a fixed plastic lens….And I know of a guy who has a 400 mm catadioptic lens that cost around what my last car did who couldn’t get a good picture if you took it for him……It is the photographer, even in this day of auto and digital everything….The person who can use the basic rules of photography will out…..
February 20th, 2011 at 1:02 pm
Although the better tools afforded by many professional photographers can make the job easier, or allow them to work in challenging conditions, the measure of that work is in the image. Your sample image here is magnificent, it would not have looked appreciably different regardless of what camera is used. You need a photographer friend instead of a camera owner friend.
February 20th, 2011 at 1:19 pm
Does a new professional photographer need a professional camera. That depends. Unfortunately talent and good photos alone won’t land you clients. Looking and acting like a professional are almost essential. Sad but true. You may not make better photos with a D700 than a D5000, but the former will help you look like you are experienced and can be relied upon to handle a pro assignment. I’m not talking photographic skill here but marketing yourself.
If you’re shooting for yourself or if you are producing prints or stock files to sell, then no the camera doesn’t make a difference. If you are shooting in front of clients then their expectation is generally that you have a pro camera. At the very least that means a pro-sumer camera and a battery/vertical grip. That’s just a matter of expectations and it’s easier to buy a bigger camera than it is to try and convince a client that you really know what you’re doing with that camera you could have bought at WalMart. And if you’re charging pro prices then the cost of a new camera body isn’t that big a deal. Until you have a great reputation, appearances do matter if you really want to be a *working* pro. Once you’ve gotten a rep then a less expensive camera will be considered “creative.
February 20th, 2011 at 1:20 pm
Simply put, if you get paid for your photography then you’re considered a “professional”. But being a “pro” doesn’t always make you a “good” photographer.
In a similar sense, being tagged as a “newbie” doesn’t always mean bad. Take it as a compliment – not may “newbies” has the grasp of creativity and art the way your “newbie” shots make!
Besides, it is the art that makes the artist!
Have a good day!
February 20th, 2011 at 1:23 pm
“Let me guess. The “friend” owns a Canon.”
As a Canon owner, I have no idea what a d5000 is.
February 20th, 2011 at 1:32 pm
I’ve used my D60 for approximately 2 years and have taken up numerous paid photography, but I only upgraded to the D7000 because I have found too much limitation on my D60.
It is about utilising the tools that you have rather than just having the best tools. What’s the point in having the best ‘pro’ camera when you can’t utilise what you have and gain more clients?
Ray
February 20th, 2011 at 1:43 pm
[code]I love the d60[/code]
February 20th, 2011 at 2:02 pm
This reminds me of a story I once heard. A lady went out and bought a camera and started taking pictures. She wasn’t satisfied thinking it was the camera and traded it for another camera. Her statement was, it did not take good pictures. It is not the camera that takes good pictures, it is the photographer.
February 20th, 2011 at 2:21 pm
Haters are gonna hate, its just jealousy. But, one the other hand all these photographers saying a camera doesn’t make a difference “its the artist behind the lens” I agree…kinda. There are things I couldn’t do with my point and shoot I can with my 7d – that’s just a fact. There is a difference, sometimes its small and sometimes its a big difference. You can’t be a professional NFL photographer with the cheapest SLR and poor quality glass lens, AND you can’t be a professional NFL photographer without the gift of knowing what and how to shoot a good action shot and not just shooting blindly.
There are always gonna be people that are gonna put others down in all aspects of life but you just gotta keep proving them wrong to shut them up.
February 20th, 2011 at 2:49 pm
There’s only a few kinds of people who would make that kind of statement:
1. The “more professional” professional who is trying to put another photographer down in a small effort to increase business in a certain market by lowering the confidence of the camera user.
2. The egotistical client who presumes a camera that’s in use is always going to run thousands and thousands whenever a professional is involved. these usually are the worst, because they generally ruin the photos for themselves before they’re even taken.
3. Someone who has no idea or concept of manual settings on a camera. Usually this is a person who has another brand or a higher model number but only uses the automatic functions thinking that’s exactly why their camera is better.
Anyone who knows anything about cameras will know it’s rarely all to do with just the camera anymore.
-about skill WITH the camera
-about creativity in the shot
-9 times out of 10 about the OTHER equipment (lenses, lighting, reflectors, setting etc)
Personally the people who make a comment about “lesser” cameras are really just trying to ruin the photographer’s confidence and put them off as being non-value-for-money and unprofessional quality.
February 20th, 2011 at 2:49 pm
Your camera is just fine! What does he use that gets him feeling so “high and mighty”? I’d guess something comparable, but he’s just bought into the marketing.
As others have said, it’s the photographer, not the gear, that makes the photos. You’re selling the photos, so those are what make you a pro!
Your “friend” is jealous and/or naive. If it were me, I would just ignore him and start hanging around him less (be the adult and don’t stoop down to match his pettiness). If he’s direct with his comments and you find yourself having to respond, just keep your cool and say politely that your clients are happy with the product you’re selling—your photos—so unless he decides to become one of your clients, you see no need to change your gear. “I make the photos, not my camera.”
February 20th, 2011 at 2:51 pm
Your friend just doesn’t understand your art. Just labeling you as a beginner without offering some helpful criticism of your photos tells me that he is not a good friend. Besides, what is he? 7 yrs old?
A camera is just a box that lets in light, falling on to a sensor or film. That’s it. You could make your own or buy some $5K+ camera. It will still take pictures and with enough practice you will produce some excellent shots.
As long as you are happy with your shots and other people enjoy your work, who cares what your friend thinks.
February 20th, 2011 at 2:52 pm
I have a couple of favorite responses to somebody like that, they are all of the same sort:
- Stepping into a Formula One car doesn’t make you Michael Schumacher
- Buying a set of Nike golf clubs doesn’t make you Tiger Woods.
- Put Michael Schumacher in a reasonable priced car (Top gear reference) and he’ll be faster than you ever will be.
The tools don’t make the artist.
February 20th, 2011 at 3:17 pm
Pro= Earn money from photography. If you are earning a living selling prints from a pinhole camera made from a shoebox, then you are a pro.
As to the second question- you don’t need “friends” like that.
Nice photo, BTW!
February 20th, 2011 at 3:20 pm
His so-called friend sounds like a typical snap-shooter. He thinks the camera is more important than the person taking photos. You can have the best, most expensive camera in the world; but, if you are lousy at taking pictures you will only be a lousy picture-taker with a very expensive camera. .
What Harsh Singh really needs is to get is a new friend.
February 20th, 2011 at 3:25 pm
I agree – the camera doesn’t make the photographer. If it did, how good you are would only be determined by how expensive your equipment is!
Just wondering why Canon persists with (or used to persist with) requiring you own 2 1D bodies before they considered you a pro???
February 20th, 2011 at 3:47 pm
does a camera really make you pro or not ?
>>Here is the definition for “pro·fes·sion·al” in http://www.thefreedictionary.com/professional
– Engaging in a given activity as a source of livelihood or as a career
- Having or showing great skill; expert
So, its a matter of skill not the instrument by which you do the skill. I know in the making of Ferrari, they avoid using machines to fit the bolts and nuts.
The camera will never make you a pro and Eyes behind the camera do.
—–
and what should i do with my friend
>>Leave him and just look for a true friend.
February 20th, 2011 at 3:49 pm
Last Summer I went to a presentation at Chicago’s Carter G Woodson library where Robert Abbot Sengstacke (www.sengstackeimages.com), the photographer and son of the founder of the Chicago Defender, donated his father’s papers to the library and opened a photo exhibit. Someone asked a question similar to this and I will never forget his answer.
“Mr. Sengstacke, what advice would you have for someone like me who has a full time job, not in photography, and has to overcome that obstacle as they try to learn photography in just their spare time?”
He said something like:
“I would never consider that a disadvantage. In fact, I found that whenever I had a deadline for my photos, it wasn’t fun anymore, and I couldn’t be as creative with it”
Not only did that empower me in photography to go out and have fun and be creative, but it allowed me to give up that something was wrong and contextualize my feelings in graduate school where I love my studies but asked questions about my future in my field when I came to hate the workload.
Anyway, as for the camera, who cares? A great image can be taken with a $10 pinhole. A camera is a tool find the right one for you. Mine is a Leica X1 (haha and let the sh*t talking begin on that note).
February 20th, 2011 at 3:51 pm
To be clear- Mr. Sengstacke went on to say that being a hobbyist with photography is an advantage he envied others for during his career.
February 20th, 2011 at 4:00 pm
Don’t feel bad I shoot with a d3000, and it actually made me have a better appreciation for the art, oppose to having an expensive and me thinking it was the camera.
It’s all about perspective and how you the view the world.
It’s called a viewfinder and you must find the view
February 20th, 2011 at 4:12 pm
I was shooting a formal event tonight with my D300. There was an older cocky photographer also shooting with his D3. I noted the angles he chose and event glanced at his LCD screen at one point. His shots looked like they were from a $80 point&shoot. I think he was shooting in auto along with his in camera flash.
The man makes the pictures, not his gear.
February 20th, 2011 at 5:08 pm
Someone once told me that the only difference between a pro and a non-pro is that the former makes a living out of it. Some so-called “pros” like to give people a hard time. Stick with what you know best and feel comfortable and happy with. Doesn’t matter what others have to say.
There are people who own the best (and most expensive) gear but may not necessarily shoot (or create) the best images
February 20th, 2011 at 5:29 pm
I say the next time your out shooting take that friend along. When he starts giving you S**T, ask to see what he shot on his camera. Then give it a toss down the street or out the window.
February 20th, 2011 at 5:46 pm
The camera doesn’t make the photograph but a good camera in the hands of good photograph makes better photos… Good camera in the hands of bad one… makes bad photos!
February 20th, 2011 at 6:22 pm
wow amazing! loads of people like this around the world.it pisses them off when there’s somebody just starting out in photography and buys a more better gear than them.justforget about theses so called friends and just shoot shoot shoot and learn and have fun.
February 20th, 2011 at 6:26 pm
Get a cameracover from Camera Armor, once your camera has his cover on, nobody can see your camera brand and type ! And as a bonus, you have extra protection.
February 20th, 2011 at 6:31 pm
The very first comment at the top of the page says it all. It is the truth pure and simple.
If your friend is jealous that is his problem, if he vents his frustration on you by putting you down that is also his problem, but if it bothers you it becomes your problem also. It is a sad situation … maybe he is not really a “friend” any longer.
Shoot, process, post and share with us … as long as your work makes you happy then we are happy!
February 20th, 2011 at 6:53 pm
Hi Dear,
Its not the camera set up, which makes difference between PRo and Newbies.. Its the brain behind the lens… always… so, please dont forget to use it wisely.
Thanks.
February 20th, 2011 at 6:54 pm
As others have already noted, a pro is simply someone who makes money from their photos. It doesn’t matter which equipment you use. Likewise, going out and buying a whole studio worth of professional-grade equipment doesn’t make you a pro.
Just tell your “friend” to shushh and keep doing what you do.
February 20th, 2011 at 7:55 pm
THANK YOU SO MUCH EVERYONE!!! I have uploaded some pics on my site, I will be uploading some more sample shots into my portfolio soon.
I am going to be contributing to this site, i have learned so much I have to give back. Your support has strengthened my resolve further. Thank you so much !!!
February 20th, 2011 at 9:06 pm
I read a comment somewhere once that I loved so much that I would like to repeat it for you. ” A camera doesn’t make you a photographer any more than standing in a garage would make you a car”
February 20th, 2011 at 9:28 pm
I agree with all the comments above mine. Your friend is not really a friend if he’s happy to put you down constantly for not having a “top of the line” camera. The camera does not make the photographer, or make good pictures. I have a post I wrote about this a while ago after seeing a similar debate going on: http://blog.vrindawebb.com/2010/04/28/equipment-vs-creativity/
Images are the result of photographer’s eye and creativity, no matter what camera is being use… 5D, point&shoot or phone camera. Your images are beautiful! Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. And keep up the wonderful work!
February 20th, 2011 at 9:32 pm
I honestly say I feel the same with your friend but not that you’re not a pro with a pro cam. I just want to know from those newbies, “Do they really know their camera so much or how much do they know about photography that they want to buy an expensive cam?” It really has become my pet peeve that these “users” only use the Auto or Scenes mode. Some tried using Program mode but still don’t know how to use the mode.
I admit I am envious that they can afford those lenses having long ranges of focal lengths while I only have an 18-55 kit lens and the cheapest-but-worth-the-price-in-terms-of-picture-quality 50mm.
I borrowed one camera with an 18-200 once. I discovered the owner uses the Sports Scene & ISO 1600 and no changes in her menu features. So, because I was borrowing it and promised myself to return to the usual settings before I return the camera, I changed most of her settings. From Sports scene, I changed to Aperture mode then lowered the ISO. Later, I was wondering why my photos were so dark. As it turned out, the filter was CPL. I thought, “What?! A CPL on indoors?” Yep. It’s not just one of the filters; it’s actually the owner’s everyday filter. “Well, FINE!” I said, “I don’t want to increase the ISO because of grains but it’s not my camera so here I am, increasing the ISO. And besides, they think that an expensive filter such as this CPL compared to a UV filter means better accessory for the camera. They are rich anyway. But how much do they know about filters and this camera?” (I use UV filter to protect my camera. If and when I can afford a polarizer or CPL, I will use it only on outdoors, especially when the sun is up.)
When I was scanning over the owner’s pictures, I thought, “She can get the same pictures in just a point-and-shoot.” [The owner is still high school. Even kids are owning expensive gadgets. From expensive cellphones (that are really fit for a businessman] to laptops/notebook [I thought the youngest user of this type is a college student but now even primary students have one. I owned mine in college and I'm using my second laptop. I upgraded because I'm always dealing with multimedia and making videos]to iPAD [I know a three year old owning an iPAD] to dSLRs.
I own a Canon 500D. I upgraded from a point-and-shoot because of its limitations and also because I wanted to learn more about photography and use the shutter, aperture, manual modes. I have never used a Scene mode ever. And I don’t even know how to use them. I want to really manipulate my camera and the pictures I take, not some quick touch from the camera. (From a hobby, I became hired by a few people.) (I do consider myself as an intermediate.) I also upgrade because all my point-and-shoot don’t last with me because of my over-usage AND because of the video feature (I also do videos and edit videos. A day before I knew about 550D, which has better video features, I bought the 500D. But I am still satisfied with this camera even when their’s already a 600D.)
And guess what? Those people who have never owned a camera before but later bought a dSLR. They come to me for lessons. (Only those who are really willing. Those who aren’t willing are those who don’t listen.)
As for you, D5000 has is a camera for beginners in (are really into) photography (and not just use it like any point-and-shoot). DSLRs aren’t toys unlike point-and-shoot. They have shutter life that when you reach, say 50,000 shots, your shutter/camera won’t work anymore. You either buy a spare shutter or buy a new camera. If you take pictures not out of leniency and with care for the camera (and really know about photography & serious about photography and maybe more than just a hobby) then people like your friend and me may welcome you as one of us unless we would curl our eyebrows (or frown) thinking you are just wasting your money.
To end, we want to know why you bought a dSLR then we will know how much of a “photographer” you are.
Photography is an art made from your viewfinder.
[I am owning my first dSLR when I want more from my point-and-shoot and have gotten serious in photography.]
February 20th, 2011 at 10:21 pm
Harsh Singh,
I have always understood that a pro-anything is one who gets paid for doing what they do.
The photograph shown above is absolutely beautiful by any standards and that’s what defines anyone’s
skill level! Yours is very high.
Chris
February 20th, 2011 at 10:46 pm
Short answer: Your friend is an idiot. Dump him and get a new friend.
Long answer: A camera is just a tool. Like any tool, there are inherent strengths and weaknesses to it. It is up to the photographer the fully maximised on the strengths and weaknesses of the camera. A good photographer understand the limitations of his or her tools. A bad one can’t even control the camera.
A photo is not composed by a camera, it is composed by the photog. The photog determined the variables that are required to create the photo of his vision. Understanding and mastery of those variables are what separate the good photog with the bad phtotog. Creating a unique vision is what separate the great photog with a good photog. Making money with your photo is what separates a pro photog with the rest.
Obviously your “friend” have some insecurity issues. He might be entrenched in a world view that bigger is better. Therefore he might have bought a higher specs camera then yours, convincing himself that it’ll take good photos. But he fail to master the camera. And when he compares his photos with that of yours, which camera might be of lower spec than his, he feels intimidated and possibly confused. His whole world view have shattered. Rather than realising his error and improved his skills, he feels bitter and strikes back at an easy target, you with the lower specs camera.
You can either help him understand his error or you can just dump him and get a real friend. I suggest the latter.
February 20th, 2011 at 11:16 pm
A camera may help, but definitely if you don’t “have it”, it won’t help…
February 20th, 2011 at 11:23 pm
I was doing paid portraits with a d40 until middle of last year when I got the money to get a d700.
I had plenty of disparaging comments and still get the occasional comment when i’m shooting motorsport.
My friends were the ones encouraged me to do some paid work and thank goodness I listened to them!
Best of luck on your own journey – enjoy what you do!
February 20th, 2011 at 11:29 pm
It’s vision and creativity that separates the common photographers from the pro. Not the camera in itself. Your frends babbling about whether you are a pro or not has got more to do with his own insecurity I guess
Don’t let it bother you.
February 21st, 2011 at 12:05 am
‘Pro’ is short for ‘professional’. ‘Professional’ means to follow an occupation for a living. If you can take photographs on a mobile phone and make enough money to live on, then you are a pro. If you have spent £5,000 on a camera but have never made a penny from the photographs that you take, then you are not a pro.
It’s hard when a “friend” (?) criticises your photography or your equipment choices, but it’s probably because he is jealous of the quality of images you get over his. I always listen to helpful feedback or criticism, but I just don’t enter into this kind of debate with anyone – it is meaningless and is a waste of your time to even think about it for a second.
February 21st, 2011 at 12:28 am
My friend owns a D90 with decent lenses and has a studio already (they pay him to get photos) and I previously own a sony H9 camera. He is always stunned on the pictures I have take with this point and shoot cam and thinks I am using DSLR.
Its another proof that owning a DSLR does not make you a professional or the least a photographer.
February 21st, 2011 at 12:29 am
I was guilty of being a “camera owner” of very good equipment (D700, 70-200 2.8, etc) but I gave up photography because I was frustrated that no one wanted me to take photos for them. After I sold all of my “pro” equipment and began to think about getting back into it I remembered what a pro told me once. This pro, who shoots for a living including for major restaurant chain whose girls wear skimpy clothes told me you can always tell an amateur because they have the nicest equipment without a scratch on it meaning they spend a ton of money for stuff that sits in a bag. I am just now returning to photography with a limited budget and while I did manage to eek out enough money to buy a D7000, I approached my purchase from the perspective of buying tools, but have spent way more time reading blogs like DPS to learn the art rather than being just another guy with an expensive camera setup. Your photo is AMAZING and I wish when I had my 3 or 4k worth of equipment I could have envisioned and produced such a scene. Keep up the good work!
February 21st, 2011 at 12:41 am
You camera body does not matter unless you are using one that is not good for the situation you need it for. It’s a well known fact that the body is one of the least important factors in photography.
As far as if you are a pro or not, do you make 40% of your income from your work? This is what labels someone a pro. Sadly it doesn’t matter what skills you have.
February 21st, 2011 at 12:43 am
Get urself a sigma camera . Force urself to use it for a week. There are no auto , no pano, no nonsense.
After that u will have an answer as clear as the sky.
February 21st, 2011 at 12:58 am
I agree with dees. Let your photos do the talking for you. Your friend is sounding a little jealous. That being said, the quality of your equipment should be consistent with your ability and talent. Please yourself, first. Let your friend talk all he wants. The proof is in the pictures.
February 21st, 2011 at 1:15 am
My 2cents worth.
Fine Art: The camera makes no matter. A friend of mine in Tucson builds his own cameras; each one represents a message in its design. Then he shoots a photo with it. Honestly some of the photos are just kinda okay. But the cameras are a work of art. One represents A.I.D.S.; it is an infrared camera. The infrared filter is his friend’s HIV positive blood. And sell for $80,000 each. Wayne Martin Belger, http://boyofblue.com. My most purchased photo is a shot with an original, bare bones Holga. I even heard comments at the exhibition “ooo, she must have an expensive camera”. So for fine art it ain’t about the camera. It is about the artist behind it. What they see and what they are trying to communicate with what they have and really knowing the limitations of the equipment.
Documentary/Traditional Journalism: Whatever is necessary to tell the story, honestly. Recently the POY awarded 3rd prize to images shot with the Hipstamatic app and an iphone. They were fabulous! Honest, real, gritty. And the journalism sector is up in arms. Because he used an app, which changes the photo. A big “no-no” in that world. But HE didn’t change the photo. Of course the debate has begun and I truly think a new era is about to be greeted in that world. So nope the camera didn’t matter here. Just someone with the mastery of skills to be able to tell the story with the equipment at hand.
Commercial Work/Weddings/Editorial/Portraits: Absolutely the camera and equipment important. Advertising agencies are paying “you” to produce a product that effectively and visually represents ‘their’ product. You damn well better have the right equipment, knowledge and talent to pull it off. Nothing will destroy a career in commercial work like un-professionalism. Tantrums. Well sometimes that is accepted. But failure of equipment or poor execution with kill it right then and there. Editorial. Same thing but with some leeway. If shooting for a mag like Rolling Stone and you are Annie Leibowitz then nope whatever you sling, you have the skills and talent to back it up. Portraits. 50:50. If you have the skills you can absolutely get away with a plastic dime-store camera. But you better know what you are doing. And lastly weddings. The elephant in the room. You can be the most talented professional out there but if you have substandard equipment you will not get the shot. Period. Weddings are a different beast that requires fast professional lenses and bodies. And you need at least 2 of everything. One goes down you better be able to pick up another in one graceful movement. Failure is not an option, unless you want to find yourself in court with an angry bride. The reason? LIght. I swear to god…light. The more romantic the wedding (at night) the dimmer the light and the more mixed. Without professional equipment or the know-how you are in for a rough ride.
I have done a little of all of the above at some point in my career. Even weddings. Every wedding I shot the bride and groom were totally confident in me. But inside I was a wreck. Why? Cause there are no redos.
So my advice. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. If you shoot great photos with what you have then shoot away. Have a blast! Learn, create and share. Besides he is probably jealous….
February 21st, 2011 at 1:15 am
In a word NO! I have known people over the years that have more money than sense. What I mean is that they always have the best of everything, but often don’t have the skills or knowledge to use the equipment to it’s fullest.
From the example here you have a good eye for capturing the moment in an artistic way. These images can be captured with most any camera. Tell your friend to go to youtube and lookup the fashion shoot done with an iPhone 4, maybe then he’ll get it, “IT NOT THE CAMERA IT’S THE PHOTOGRAPHER BEHIND THE LENS”.
Top end pro camera bodies and lens can make a good photographers images look better, but it can’t make a bad photog look good.
February 21st, 2011 at 1:19 am
Yeah! See here! It’s the camera not the photographer! – http://www.stevehuffphoto.com/2010/12/22/its-not-the-photographer-its-the-camera-stupid-the-m9-titanium-arrives-by-6/
February 21st, 2011 at 1:46 am
I recently had a friend ask me, “Does that camera take good pictures?” I wanted to say, “No, I do!”
LOL!
February 21st, 2011 at 2:02 am
I can really relate to this, ive been in it for ten years, and after a nasty divorce with my husband, also a photographer, lost all my studio equipment, and found myself with only enough money for a d40. while I’m very proud of the work I managed to create with only a d40, and its on board flash, im so relieved that I was able to turn my profits into a full frame body and pro grade flash. Will it make me a better photog? No. but a pro camera does do its job of capturing my vision accuratley, and with less post processing.
February 21st, 2011 at 2:26 am
I would ask him, if when he goes to a restaurant whether he says to the chef that his pots and pans makes good food.
A good photographer (I won’t say professional as a professional photographer is someone who earns their living from photography, and it doesn’t always mean that they are good photographers!) should be able to pick up more or less any camera and make good photos.
A “better” camera may help make photos technically better – I mean things like being able to use higher ISOs with less grain, etc. But I have seen some stunning photos taken with relatively cheap Point & Shoot compacts.
So no, the camera does not make the photographer. This person is basically just talking out of their backside and possibly just jealous that Harsh is able to take better photos with a cheaper camera.
February 21st, 2011 at 2:26 am
There is no arguing with people who believe that equipment defines the photographer, and based on all of the responses here, I am clearly preaching to the choir, but a professional photographer is someone who makes their living by selling prints, photographing weddings, etc. etc. If they are producing quality images that they feel good about, and their clients are happy, who cares what equipment they’re using?
February 21st, 2011 at 2:27 am
Your friend sounds like a bully and a snob. Actually, is this person really a friend if they are continually putting you ‘down’? I think not.
Does a person who owns a pair of excellent running shoes make them an Olympic athlete? If a person owns the best “stand” mixer, does that make them a professional chef?
Unfortunately, I think you need to separate yourself from this so-called “friend”. They will only stifle your creativity if you listen to them.
Many “pros” still use the Nikon D300s which is not considered a pro level camera. There are many technical reasons for this which I will not get into here.
What determines if you are a “pro” or not is if you make your life’s income from photography. If you only make a small amount of income or less than 50% of your income from photographic services, you are not a pro.
Don’t be afraid to tell your snobby friend where to get off if that’s what you need to do.
February 21st, 2011 at 2:28 am
There is one difference between a professional and an amateur. The professional is paid for their work. The simplest solution is to sell some of your work and then when he says you are a professional you can agree with him.
February 21st, 2011 at 2:33 am
I saw a television programme a few years ago. Six professional photographers were each given a different camera. The cameras ranged from a high level pro-standard to an ordinary telephone camera (3 mega-pixels). Each photographer was to produce a portfolio with the camera and report on it.
All the cameras had their own character of shots and their own quality. At the same time each of the photographers, when they got used to their new technology, were able to express their own characters, their own special way of seeing and their interpretation on what they were doing. The results were amazing.
Your way of seeing, your feel for what you are doing and your perspective on your photography is what makes you a photographer and characterizes your shots as your vision. Your camera is just one of the tools you use to manifest that expression.
Being a professional or not is about whether you make money from photography or not.
February 21st, 2011 at 2:45 am
here’s a question for all:
when does a photographer cross the boundaries to be a graphics designer? meaning for the pics that are edited is it no longer photography but image editing? Yes even the ‘computer’ edits in the cameras…
February 21st, 2011 at 3:15 am
Is Chase Jarvis a pro? Because as I recall he made a entire book of photographs just using his iphone. Your friend doesn’t have a problem telling you whats on his mind. So I would tell him, when his photographs start looking professional you’ll consider his opinion.
February 21st, 2011 at 4:11 am
So, ask your friend if someone he considers a pro were to borrow your camera and shoot some photos, would he still be a pro?
As to the word pro, most of us know it comes from the word “profession”. Some of the synonyms are “Occupation”, “Vocation”, “Career” and “Job”. All of which denotes some sort of commerce.
Don’t assume that someone who is a “pro” shoots great photos, they are just lucky enough to get paid for it.
I dare say that with the advent of digital, there are a lot more enthusiasts out there shooting far better photos than most pros. It is one thing to be able to take great photos, it is quite another to make a living at it though.
As to the tools you use, if it works for you, fine. A couple of years ago I decided to upgrade our camera bodies and picked up a Nikon D3 (close to $7000) and 2 D700s (close to $3000). I ended up taking back the D3 because it was not what I needed and for the money I just could not justify it. So I just figured it was way over kill and just picked up another D700. Been happy with that decision ever since. Although I do want to look at the D3x which is much improved over the D3, but that is another story….
Good shooting and enjoy
JM
February 21st, 2011 at 4:22 am
Just laugh and go on…after 25 years I have learned that people who badmouth your equipment (in any area) just have an ego problem. I taught photography part time while working as a “pro” and many of my students owned newer “better” equipment than I did because it was a hobby and they made better money at their day job than I did. I won’t say I was better than them, but they respected my work and what I taught them.
Photography is seen as “easy” by most people…well, the hard part is creating something unique and astounding (which you appear to do) in a medium that everyone else is doing too.
More than likely, your friend (why are you friends with this person?) has insecurities and hangups about his own abilities…Just smile and go on, my friend, it is ultimately all about the image,,,
February 21st, 2011 at 5:17 am
Monet and Picasso probably didn’t have expensive paint brushes.
February 21st, 2011 at 5:30 am
I agree why some people get in a tiffy because they feel inferior that their camera is “less” than yours..talk about a small penis complex. I understand if you’re a blabber mouth..but if you’re humble about your gear, whether your shooting with a P&S or a D3S, and your picture are not pro..who gives a crap..do people who own a Rolex tell the perfect time when you ask..it’s all about what your happy with..let the cynics eat crud.
February 21st, 2011 at 5:38 am
The fact that the person was treated this way over gear and the fact that this question has to be asked in 2011 is so unbelievably sad. Glad my best friend who is a writer isn’t insulted for creating her novel on an old iBook from 05 and not a MacBook Pro. Sigh.
February 21st, 2011 at 5:48 am
I believe being pro means you can work and produce revenue at a level where you can afford the pro gear. being pro means its your profession. work to better yourself. to me it means you aren’t settling with lower quality gear. once you’ve mastered the d5000 don’t allow it to hold you back.
February 21st, 2011 at 6:09 am
You friend sounds like an idiot. People are the professionals, not their gear.
February 21st, 2011 at 6:32 am
Harsh, I have to agree with everyone else that it’s the photographer, not the camera. i recently went to a small exhibit of photos taken with a CELL PHONE and they were terrific. Your photos are beautiful and you have a great eye. And for my 2 cents, and also as the owner of a D5000, that is one fine camera. keep up the good work and consider your “friend’s” jealousy a compliment.!
February 21st, 2011 at 6:35 am
While the quality of gear can be important to the quality of images, it’s the photographer that makes a picture a good one, not just the gear they are using. Anyone who has the money can buy a professional-quality camera, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they are a good photographer. I believe it was Ansel Adams who said, “The single most important component of a camera is the 12 inches behind it”. I believe that to be true.
I am a student photographer and I lack the money to buy decent gear. In the office of the student newspaper I work for everyone owns bodies and lenses that cost at least $1,000 each, while I’m still shooting with a $400 body and shitty kit lenses. My coworkers playfully joke about how puny my camera is and how awful the quality of my gear is, and while I hope to upgrade my gear soon, I realize that I’ve still been able to produce images I am happy with. Having entry-level gear has solidified my understanding of photography and I feel that when I get the chance to upgrade my gear I will fully deserve it and appreciate it.
February 21st, 2011 at 8:27 am
ignore your friend and just focus on shooting. Its never the camera but the photographer. The equipment will only help you take the picture faster. but seeing and creativity cannot be bought.
http://www.tumitira365.tumblr.com
http://www.flickr.com/photos/tumitira365/
February 21st, 2011 at 8:33 am
Just ask him “how big is his danda?” – if he speaks Punjabi he will know what you mean!
February 21st, 2011 at 8:55 am
Tell yourself you don’t shoot to please other photographers, but only yourself and other people
February 21st, 2011 at 11:10 am
I think only your final product dictates whether you are a pro or not. The camera is only a tool to help you create your vision.
February 21st, 2011 at 12:38 pm
We all know that a big fat expensive camera does NOT make anyone a pro photographer.
A pro by description is anyone who makes a living in his field of endeavor.
This person may not be a friend of yours and he obviouisly is jealous of your skills.
February 21st, 2011 at 1:10 pm
Once someone actually bucks up and starts shelling out dollars for your shots, then call yourself a Pro….having access to the tools is nowhere a prelude to being a Pro.
February 21st, 2011 at 2:40 pm
some people mistake me for a pro, but when they find out I only use a digicam, i get labeled as an amateur immediately. but it makes me smile to know that if they had not known what camera i was using, they would believe my photos are beautiful.
February 21st, 2011 at 4:03 pm
Obviously a camera doesn’t make you a pro… but at the same time sometimes a certain devotion to your art does gain you respect.
February 21st, 2011 at 6:55 pm
Hi Harsh Singh,
I really have no idea what you friend means by you being a newbie, that one shot of yours there is pretty damn good. It’s definitely not the camera doing that excellent work by itself, you are excellent….I am sure if I gave you my 1000D you can still produce that same shot
Not the camera, it’s you!
February 21st, 2011 at 7:03 pm
Fascinating discussion. As an OLYMPUS user in a community dominated by Canon and Nikon users I am constantly niggled and prodded and poked by the snobs of the Canikon world…
I just take my photos…..and smile
http://www.vale-images.co.uk
February 21st, 2011 at 7:17 pm
Hi Harsh – I dont care if i go pro in 5 years or 50 years I just love shooting and clicking pictures and put a smile on people’s face I just love the reaction when they say ‘OMG is it me!!’ that is so lovely beautiful, etc that what makes my day. I started shooting with canon 5Mp 3 years back then upgraded to sony cyber shot 8 mp just to upgrade myself and when i got hooked onto it i took one year part time course to learn the technical aspects of photography that too just beacause first question people ask you is about from where did you learn it ( so just for the heck of it ) but trust me on this site you can learn more than anywhere in the world. just 6 months back i got d90 18 – 200mm just to upgrade myself and to learn about DSLR thing though i saved a lot for it (with no extra accessories no tripods no extra flash) because i love to shoot in availabe light be it a party or portraits, indoors or outdoors. i guess this is just for others as when they see a big black thing round your neck they think you are a professional (such fools) but i still love to shoot from my P & S .
as many of them on above post has said – just go out there and shoot what you heart says to you from whatever camera gear you have
February 21st, 2011 at 7:19 pm
Your friend is probable not getting any progress in his shooting style.
While you still progress while shooting, he may be at his max, and believes that better gear will make him better.
To be fair, 80% of this is true. not because gear is better but because the gear is more expensive so you will use it more often and you will learn more.
February 21st, 2011 at 7:37 pm
You know, I have stumbled few times across people who said: “You take good photos, you must have a really good camera”. To be honest i think the statement itself is absurd.
It is like saying to a writer: “You write excellent novels, you really must have a fantastic laptop.” It always cracks me up
.
I have seen these types of comments so many times, that i have decided to write a post about it about a year ago. You can read it in the link below:
Does a better camera make a better photographer ?
…where i took the worst camera i could find… my ancient Nokia 6600 (VGA camera 640×480) and compared shots side by side with my Pentax K200D DSLR. My findings were that a better camera can merely enhance and emphasize the appeal of your photos, however, it is the photographer’s eye that makes the decision. In the end it is the photographer that matters.
The reverse side of the coin is that a more professional camera can also emphasize your mistakes more easily (due to shallower DOF and more controls at your disposal).
Ask your friend what he thinks about that ?
February 21st, 2011 at 7:39 pm
Camera doesn’t make a good photographer, it will only help a good photographer take better picture. I carry D3000 around, people think (who has not seen any SLR) I am a professional, I am just a newbie and will die as newbie as there are tonnes of things to learn in this world.
February 21st, 2011 at 7:55 pm
If I knew that if I bought the most expensive camera in the world with a guarantee that i would get the money shot every time I would be selling my house and anything else to buy it. I think your friend is the one with the problem. Your photos are beautiful you really don’t have anything to worry about. All I use is a Canon Eos 400D and I love it.
February 21st, 2011 at 8:05 pm
I agree with the others, its the photographer not the gear. And for me, I usually have the picture framed in my mind before i put my eye up to the viewfinder.
February 21st, 2011 at 8:30 pm
I thinks our friend already know the answers but he’s not enough selfconfident.
February 21st, 2011 at 9:32 pm
I’m tired of telling people that the camera does not take the picture, you do. I have been taking pictures for more tha 20 years with bottom line cameras and even when I use te top of the line, I use older models. For ex now I shoot with D200, being that I could get a D300 or 300s. The person that labels you by your camera does not know anything about photography.
February 21st, 2011 at 9:35 pm
Only accept consutructive criticism and ignore the rest !
February 21st, 2011 at 9:57 pm
There´s is a beautiful little storie about Helmut Newton, who allegedly visited a restaurant,the cook came to his table, praising the work of Newton and how he adores his pictures and then says “Mr. Newton, you must have used quite an expensive camera to do these!”.
After dinner, Helmut Newton did go to the kitchen to thank the cook for the exquisite dishes and said:” Well your pots must also have been quite expensive – that dinner was wonderful!”
If this is really your friend, he´ll need to understand that the camera is just a tool, like everybody else already have said.
Or as some german photog has put it:
“Sure, my camera was expensive – and I don´t do better work with it, but I have more fun shooting bad pictures.”
February 21st, 2011 at 10:56 pm
Not a big surprise that at a website geared to novice, learning photographers, the majority of whom have consumer-level equipment, the responses are that the equipment doesn’t matter.
I’m not saying it’s not true, just that this may be a biased audience.
Anyway that doe snot sound like a friend, and use whatever tools will accomplish your goals.
February 21st, 2011 at 10:59 pm
once i was in a random checking by police, when they saw my d80 they asked me are you a photo journalist? why do people have such mentality? any way as above every one agrees, photography is done with passion to create a good photo, i have encounter some so called Pro’s taking a same shot from same angel one by one and i was just, shit man are they to be called Artist ( photography is an art i think ) they evne do not have their own vision.
February 21st, 2011 at 11:53 pm
Using pro camera gear makes it easier to accomplish the job, not possible. Pros use the best bodies mainly because they are reliable. Glass however is an important factor
February 22nd, 2011 at 12:07 am
Eh, you become a “pro” once you make money from your photos and you do it for a profession. If you can make a living from you phone camera shots, congratulations! You’re a professional.
February 22nd, 2011 at 1:21 am
If you care about the image coming out of the camera, you are a photographer. Ansel Adams used giant cameras that by todays standards are primitive. Was he any less a photographer because of equipment? To quote Chase Jarvis “The best camera is the one you have with you.” This would be like one mechanic with Snap-on tools tell another with cheap knock off tools he is not a mechanic because he doesn’t own Snap-on. You have got to know where to put the wrench.
February 22nd, 2011 at 1:48 am
Simple. Lend your camera to your ‘friend’, tell him to take a few pictures. Then use your camera and take a few pictures yourself. Finally compare the pictures with him.
He might still disagree with you out of ego but deep down he’ll know that the camera matters less than skill.
February 22nd, 2011 at 2:23 am
I used to have a 1DS and was a camera “snob” not buying anything less than the top of the line. I had the “only pros use the good stuff” thought pattern until I was on a Motorcycle even camera shoot and watched in horror as my beloved 1DS and it’s $6800.00 L series white lens freefall the 80 feet from my perch to the asphalt below. So I grabbed my friends just released Canon Rebel XL and his “icky” non L off brand sigma glass and finished the shoot.
The result was so dramatic I will never EVER buy another top of the line camera or L series glass again. the photos I took with that “garbage” Rebel XL and “icky” sigma lens were as good as the ones I took with my overpriced “look-at-me, I’m pro” body and garish white lens. The only thing I was missing was resolution of the final images. The photo shot with the models went well and took as good of photos of the girls that my deceased camera would have.
I now ONLY shoot with Canon T2i bodies and lenses that cost 1/2 to 1/5th or less than what I used to shoot with. I can now afford to buy 3 extras of everything so dropping a camera and watching it explode into parts is not a big deal.
Real Pros take good photos with whatever they have. Fake pros are hung up on what gear you are using. I used to be a fake pro gear snob. I learned the hard way. I am far happier with buying low end gear that takes just as good photos that I can afford to break and lose.
February 22nd, 2011 at 2:54 am
Yes, of course, no one respects a guy who is only impressed with high-dollar gear. Yes, it is the person behind the camera and not the equipment. I agree with all that. But as in my previous posts here on this subject I have to say that experienced pros appreciate great glass – and that usually means expensive – because the optics are clearly superior, faster – F2.8 and higher – usually more versatile/more useful;l features and certainly much more robustly built, all of which pays dividends for a working pro. The professional camera bodies are built out of immensely strong magnesium castings, wonderfully sealed from dust and moisture, they can take a beating in the field and continue to operate. Right now I am deciding between a $1,000.00 Nikkor 80 – 200 mm F2.8 and a $2,200.00 Nikkor 70 – 200 mm F.2.8 with image stabilization for even better low-light capability. It’s over $1,100.00 difference and that is a LOT of money for anyone. The decision will ultimately be are the additional features worth it? Will I get photos I might not otherwise be able to create? Both are stunning pieces of glass, just incredible. But that is a lot of bread to lay out for a lens. These are not frivolous decisions.
So while I agree that it is the talent that is primary, let’s not needlessly jump on the anti pro-gear bandwagon. The pro gear exists to fulfill a functional role, not to prove that you have a bigger wallet than the other guy.
February 22nd, 2011 at 2:56 am
PS. You will NEVER be unhappy that you laid out the money for professional gear. There have been times when I went cheap and cursed that gear every time I had to use it in a demanding situation. F2.8 is ALWAYS better than F4.5 as a maximum aperture.
February 22nd, 2011 at 3:33 am
I think we all like to have our work appreciated. What you friends say doesn’t matter if your clients love your work. The photo you posted is beautiful. In the hands of an artist a point and shoot is a pro camera.
February 22nd, 2011 at 4:02 am
As someone who is desperately trying to break into the world of profession al photography, I keep running into the same frustrations. Not all, but a good majority of the photogs I come across are not helpful and in fact a lot like your friend. I have never been in an industry that didn’t want to grow. It amazes me how many out there are so quick to put down. Many times I hear them say that “all these wanna be photographers are taking business away and undercutting my prices” and that is a bunch of crap. Competition makes you up your game. You have to constantly work on erecting your work, your creativity and your marketing skills. If someone is charging too little, the customer will get what they pay for as well as they probably won’t be in business long. Yes, the better equipment is always nice but your clients are not going to notice the difference between an xsi or a 5d unless they themselves are into photography (and even then they may not notice). You will notice the difference in your lenses if you upgrade. I know I have done a couple of shoots with my xsi at a popular family portrait setting and been intimidated by the fact that I “only” have an xsi. Would I like a 5d? Well sure! Can I afford it right now with all of the other costs of starting up a business? No, I can’t and that is okay. I can still get some great shots with my camera and when I am in a position to upgrade, I will. Don’t listen to your friend. Keep doing what you are doing, from what I see above, your images look great.
February 22nd, 2011 at 4:16 am
OK, my final squeak on the subject: for a great resource for detailed, unbiased reviews on gear go to Ken Rockwell’s site, http://www.kenrockwell.com/index.htm He is The Man on honest, brutal reviews of photo gear.
Great shooting , everybody!
February 22nd, 2011 at 6:56 am
IN REPLY TO , ARE YOU A PHOTOGRAPHER, JUST BECAUSE YOU OWN A CAMERA—NO. I HAVE FOUND JUST BECAUSE PEOPLE HAVE ALL THIS EXPENSIVE EQUPMENT THEY FEEL THERE BETTER THAN OTHERS. IT,S NICE TO HAVE TOPNOTCH GEAR, BUT IF YOU DON,T KNOW HOW TO USE IT YOUR NO BETTER THAN THE GUY WITH THE ENTERY LEVEL CAMERA. KNOWLEDGE IS KEY AND KNOWING HOW TO USE IT. GOOD LUCK.
February 22nd, 2011 at 7:45 am
No, the camera doesn’t make you a pro or a newbie with a ton of cash, it makes you a camera owner.
Good news, you can always improve your technique (but that shot above is great), I fear he (your “friend”) will be a jerk forever.
February 22nd, 2011 at 9:38 am
I agree with what a lot of other folks have said. You become a pro photographer based on how much experience you have taking photos and your understanding of composition, exposure, etc. Great photos come from great photographers, not great cameras.
February 22nd, 2011 at 10:08 am
To put it bluntly, Your friend is just jealous . I have had many simular circumstances. I am also involved in the shotgun shooting sports. Many shooters have $10,000 -$30,000 guns but it’s how you use it that counts. In a recent tournament shoot off many spectators made side remarks about my 50 year old Winchester Model 12 pump gun. Well I won the shoot off (with my Model 12) and buried the competition who were using their 10/20K Kriegoffs and Perizzie’s. I have some friends who keep jabbing me because I use a Nkon D-7000 DX format and not a Professional full frame DSLR. HOGWASH!
He is no friend but a jealous acquaintance.
February 22nd, 2011 at 12:51 pm
There are many ways to answer this. From technical to business to experience point of view.
One of my favorite I discovered this season is:
“A camera man shoots with his camera first, a photographer shoots with his heart first.”
A pro running a business is possibly one who can achieve quality images that clients are willing to endorse in, without having to spend a fortune on equipments.
A pro knows their tools well, and what is required of the shoot, will make the best out of what he/she has or can get (borrow, rental) on their hands and deliver to results to their clients.
As long as a pro knows what he/she is doing, confident of themselves, the clients love and pay them, whatever other say is just a gust of wind.
February 22nd, 2011 at 1:16 pm
Owning a professional camera doesn’t make you a pro any more than owning top of the line cookware makes you a chef.
February 22nd, 2011 at 2:02 pm
I knew a guy that owned a Canon 5D Mark II, Canon 85mm f/1.2L, and a Canon 24-70mm f/2.8L. His images looked like they were shot with a camera phone (off color due to wrong white balance and blurred due to slow shutter instead of open aperture). So my answer is no. Maybe you should show him the “iPhone fashion shoot” video.
February 22nd, 2011 at 2:15 pm
Having a pro level equipment is not making you a pro. A good photographer can took good pictures even in a point and shoot cameras. Your equipment is just a tool to took pictures of what you see, learn of what your equipment can do best in your photography. You can be a pro by believing in yourself and producing photographs beyond what our eyes is normally see.
February 22nd, 2011 at 5:19 pm
Well, this article by Ken Rockwell may be old but it still applies.
http://www.kenrockwell.com/tech/7.htm
That ‘friend’ should be in Level 1. Which level are you?
February 23rd, 2011 at 12:40 am
1. Dump him!!
2. As long as you enjoy your equipment, dont care about what others say.
February 23rd, 2011 at 2:02 am
I own a Nikon D5000 and even though it is an upgrade from my old D50 I still feel like it is beginners DSLR. So I understand how you feel when someone comes along with a higher grade model. But what does that prove, just they have more money to spend.
As for does the camera make the photographer, NO!
A camera is just a tool at the end of the day, more expensive tools tend to give finer finishes, but then all art is in the eye of a beholder. It is what you can use that tool to do, artistic/photographic talent is down to the person. A great shot can be made from a pin hole camera, a cheap point and shoot or a expensive DSLR. Depends how much you like your polishing, but at the end of the day a polished turd is still just a turd and on the other end of the scale a brilliant concept is brilliant concept be it on a napkin in biro or the oils paints of master.
So take your D5000 and go enjoy the fact you can take good photos and have the quality to not be blinded by the latest model or price tag.
February 23rd, 2011 at 2:13 am
While I believe that having a DSLR does not make one a “photographer”, I think this person is just insecure. It doesn’t matter what kind of camera a “photographer” has, their style and knowledge will still be that.
I think you should not even bother responding to the negativity. You know your work, your style. People (I am assuming, but from the one shot I see here) love your style. I already do! Be confident in what you do, and who you are. It doesn’t matter what anyone says to you. Just do what you do, because that is what makes you – you!
February 23rd, 2011 at 4:09 am
So much nonsense people write, but I’m even more surprised with this topic. Does the camera makes a professional? As a group of jealous fools who attacks those who have better equipment. So who cares that someone else has better equipment or not, and according to many who write here the question is what does serve better cameras (professional) at all?
February 23rd, 2011 at 5:10 am
I too own a D5000 (as a 2nd body), and love it.
Just remember, “Buying a better camera doesn’t buy you a better picture!”
Gary =)
February 23rd, 2011 at 6:15 am
I have been judged myself because I shoot with a Nikon D3000. My wife Shoots with the D5000 as well and she takes awesome pics with the camera. Just like everyone else here it is not the camera it is the person behind the camera. A professional will be able to work with what they got right down to a point and shoot. I took some of my best pics with a point and shoot. I actually mixed some of those pics together with some shots taken with my SLR and people could not tell the difference. I also have a friend who laughed when I he saw my camera because he shoots with 5DMKII. Keep shooting and the picture you took is amazing, keep up the great work. I also wrote a topic similar to this on my blog….
http://timeandmoment.blogspot.com/2011/01/does-purchasing-dslr-mean-great-pics.html
Anthony
February 23rd, 2011 at 7:37 am
hey for starters http://www.justdeals.com has a deal on a 5 mp digital cam and a photography book plus a lotta of batteries all for like 28 bucks
February 23rd, 2011 at 8:01 am
I have seen so many people just buy a DSLR or even medium format cameras because they are “professional” quality but they have no clue how to even turn them on let alone how to use them, other than as a point-and-shoot. I’m with everyone else on here especially the few posts right above me. having all that expensive equipment does not make you a photographer. It’s nice to have but at the end of the day it just comes down to you. : )
February 23rd, 2011 at 8:20 am
I own a Nikon D50 which are now discontinued. It does not have all the fancy video features but has amazing color and pixel to my images. I have a variety of lenses that all work with the same body. Which you too can change your lenses with using the same body. So, owning a Nikon has a $ value to itself by “sharing ” lenses. It is the creation of the eye of the person holding the”camera” and HOW you take the time to learn HOW to use it. Be proud of your Nikon and go with it…If others have an opinion….then that’s just what it is…an opinion.
February 23rd, 2011 at 3:32 pm
A cliche, but true none the less.
“Beauty is in the eue of the beholder”.
I have seen many people make stunning, if not amazing shots, even though they use digital cameras (point-and-shoot).
What makes a picture? Many things, and they include experience, and a keen sense of seeing things other people don’t. I agree with Gary, stating that a better camera doesn’t buy you a better picture.
I used to have a D40, but my pictures were chosen in competitions, along with some being published in some publications.
Don’t mind what your friend says. Just tell him if he calls you a newbie, “Takes one to know one, doesn’t it?”
That should shut him up
Keep the faith burning, and those cameras clicking, my friend.
February 23rd, 2011 at 11:49 pm
Judge your work not your gear!
February 24th, 2011 at 3:30 am
I agree that a better / more expensive camera doesn’t make you a better photographer. I know many people who spend thousands of dollars in state of the art camera and gear and they use it on automatic all the time and just for parties as a point and shoot. It’s the person behind the wheel who makes the photo and there’s a bunch of people out there taking wonderful photos with things like iPhones. In fact I have a friend who just got a 7D and it’s always in automatic. Just like driving an Audi R8 as a golf cart.
But, theres the psicological factor. I just upgraded one of my cameras, the XSI to a 60D and just by holding it I feel…… better. Am I a better photog just by having a 60D? Nope….. Do I feel like a better photog now that I have it? Yes! But just by getting the camera I also feel more commited to learn more so I can get the most of it. As soon as I got the 60D I purchased a series of ebooks and I’m out there taking more and more photos.
And…. well…. the first step to become something, it’s to believe you’re already are. Like.. dress for success.
February 24th, 2011 at 4:55 am
Just ignore your so called friend. Don’t say anything at all. Just smile. Your work will speak for itselft.
February 24th, 2011 at 7:14 am
You kit does not make you a pro. Your eye and your attitude do.
It is more than a little sad that your ‘friend’ is more interested in belittling you because of what you own rather than supporting you in your photography. They may be feeling intimidated by your ability and are looking for ways to undermine you.
Just try to ignore them when they come out with this sort of ridiculous comment as they are only showing themselves up.
February 24th, 2011 at 8:36 am
The easy answer to this is that a Pro is someone who actually sells the photographs that he (or she) takes. However, what really separates the amateurs from the pros is “professionalism.” Harsh Singh, you show true professionalism on your website. It shows off your devotion to the art of photography. It is a site that is easy to use, elegant, and a perfect showplace for yourbeautiful work.
You are clearly a Professional no matter what camera you use or how many pictures you sell.
February 24th, 2011 at 1:09 pm
No camera will make anyone a pro but some cameras make it easier to create certain images. Didn’t Ansel Adams say “a good photograph is knowing where to stand”. That said, and adequate camera can produce a more adequate image if used correctly.
February 24th, 2011 at 2:32 pm
I think a pro photographer is the one who takes pictures for a living. What does make a good photographer? Well, is much like graphic design, or art, its just a matter of someone liking it enough to buy it.
If we talk about quality, you get better quality with better equipment of course, but the art of photography is very much subjective. So you can be a photographer for a hobby or for a living (pro), either case you will be good as long as you like it and/or others too.
February 25th, 2011 at 2:31 am
I was chosen as a staff photographer for a modeling agency (voted #1 agency in my city). I shoot with a Canon T2i and kit lenses. Would I like to add higher grade equipment – you bet! But that would not change my ‘eye’. I once read where someone said that hand him a point & shoot and Ansel Adams would still be Ansel Adams. Being a pro, I think, occurs when people want to pay you to photograph them.
I believe your ‘frenemy’ (friend that’s an enemy) may be jealous.
Best of luck!
Debbie
February 25th, 2011 at 2:39 am
I do not feel that the camera makes you a professional. It is how you use your camera and its functions which makes you professional. People get too overworked about cameras and just because someone owns an SLR camera, does not make them a photographer. So many people buy the “professional” cameras and just keep them on auto mode. What is this doing? Do they even understand the camera functions? Probably not.
–Bethany K
February 25th, 2011 at 2:45 am
As a high school instructor I have been called many things (insert your favorite). I do not allow my students to call me a photographer simply because a photographer makes their living from their photos. I am proud to say though thatI am a photo enthusiasts! Always have been and always will be.
It is the photographer………not the camera.
February 25th, 2011 at 2:47 am
A camera doesn’t make you a pro. My friend can take a better photograph with his phone than I can with a DSLR.
February 25th, 2011 at 2:49 am
The most important piece of equipment is the inner vision that you already possess. What differs pros from amateurs and “snapshooters” is the ability to bring that inner vision to the print. It takes talent, knowledge and practice to bring that image out for others to see. Nobody asked Shakespeare what kind of pen he used.
February 25th, 2011 at 2:51 am
Grrrrr, this type of elitist attitude makes me furious. I’ve seen some “pros” that take the most mechanical, contrived photographs on the planet. I’d say move on and leave your know it all friend to fiddle with his f-stops!
That photograph of the young woman is magical. You my friend have “the eye.” Something money can’t buy.
V
February 25th, 2011 at 2:55 am
A fancy camera doesn’t make you a pro, just like an expensive hammer doesn’t make you a master carpenter. Your camera, at best, is only a tool. Yes, the expensive cameras have options and abilities that enhance your photos, but It’s be person using the tool…in this case a camera that makes all the difference. The camera only reproduces a representation what your creative mind and your eye and your heart saw at that moment in time.
February 25th, 2011 at 3:02 am
I would stop spending time with this “friend” they are obviously jealous of your talent. Having a better camera, or more equipment does not make you a pro. The camera does not a photographer make.
February 25th, 2011 at 3:02 am
First of all, how does one define Pro? Is it one who earns their living via photography related endeavors? Perhaps it’s one who has mastered every technical feature of their equipment? Might even be one who has an artistic sense of what they wish to capture and the ability to do so, even if others don’t care for the result. However, a camera, expensive, exotic, or otherwise most certainly doesn’t not make a pro. Nothing wrong with using the best possible equipment for your work or hobby, but possession of such equipment indicates nothing other than that one can afford it.
Pursue your craft, hobby, artistic ramblings, or whatever with abandon and don’t worry about the judgments of others. It makes sense to gain as much knowledge and skill as possible, but I haven’t met too many artists or people who excel in any field who are overly concerned about someone else’s opinions of their work. In fact many inventions and innovative ideas come from those without formal training and equipment who simply don’t know that they can’t do something – so they succeed in accomplishing their goal. regardless. Have fun and carry on.
February 25th, 2011 at 3:08 am
I agree with most of the comments I’ve read here, the camera DOES NOT make you a pro. I’ve used my point and shoot and have had some amazing photos come from my little camera and I’ve also used my Rebel and have had wonderful comments. I feel that it is in the way a photo is shot is what gives you the edge on your friend. If I gave both of you the same object to shoot you would both give me different photos, our perception is what makes our photos good or not so good.
I find that when I’m taking shots I just know when I’ve got THE shot, you feel it and know that that’s the photo without even having to view it until you get home, if you have the feel you have the photo. Never mind what your friend says, let him be and do what makes your heart dance. From the looks of your photo posted here you have an eye for taking amazing photos! Cheers.
February 25th, 2011 at 3:46 am
A camera no more makes you a pro than a sable hair paintbrush makes you Monet.. You can put a sable paintbrush in the hands of a child and you’ll get a rainbow of colours.. You can put a Childs paintbrush in the hands of Monet (or you could have) and you’d still get a masterpiece.. True artists adapt to the Materials around them and can create works of art with any material..
If your ‘friend’ thinks his camera makes him good, then he really lacks artistic talent. If you can produce better artwork with inferior materials, then imagine how that difference would be expanded if you swapped cameras..
What would I advise this person? Find better friends.. Some that can actually appreciate the art of photography..
February 25th, 2011 at 3:47 am
Who cares what camera you take your photos with and what title one wants to apply to the photographer! It’s all in the end result. I love my point and shoot and my Canon 7D. (Too bad that to embed photos with comments the photos have to be on a URL….which mine are not).
February 25th, 2011 at 3:50 am
A camera no more makes you a pro than a sable hair paintbrush makes you Monet.. You can put a sable paintbrush in the hands of a child and you’ll get a rainbow of colours.. You can put a Childs paintbrush in the hands of Monet (or you could have) and you’d still get a masterpiece.. True artists adapt to the Materials around them and can create works of art with any material..
If your ‘friend’ thinks his camera makes him good, then he really lacks artistic talent. If you can produce better artwork with inferior materials, then imagine how that difference would be expanded if you swapped cameras..
What would I advise this person? Find better friends.. Some that can actually appreciate the art of photography and appreciate yours, instead of treating it like its a competition..
February 25th, 2011 at 4:06 am
No I do not think the kind of camera you are using makes you a pro. That you love taking pictures and if you do it a lot that is a good thing. I do not think it matters what kind of camera you use. When you are able to capture the moment and stop it and realize its beauty and someone else can see it in the image too is a great thing. As for your friend he/she must have some insecurity issues about there own work to keep putting your work down or they also realize that your work is better and that is why they constantly do this. I do think you should find some way to talk to them about it since it obviously is hurting you. That is what makes you a pro that you love what you are doing!!! Success is not measured in money remember that!
February 25th, 2011 at 4:41 am
Say nothing. Keep shooting.
If your pictures really are better than his, don’t think he hasn’t noticed. It’s bothering him.
Say nothing. Keep shooting.
February 25th, 2011 at 4:55 am
It’s not about the tools you use but about the creativity and eye of the photographer.
February 25th, 2011 at 4:56 am
It’s not about the tools you use but about the creativity and eye of the photographer.
February 25th, 2011 at 5:28 am
It’s all rather silly.
I’ve come across this type of snobbishness more than a few times in my 40 years or so of photography.
First, define pro. If you mean you earn the major part of your living from photography, then you are a pro. If by pro you mean that you are skilled, have a professional attitude by showing integrity, doing your best, honouring your word, and so on, then, in that sense, you are a pro.
If , however, you define pro by the camera you own, than you are wide of the mark. All that can be said with absolute certainty about anyone with an expensive camera is that they have bought an expensive camera.
Hang a Leica around the neck of a chimpanzee and what have you got? A chimpanzee with a Leica.
Finally, consider this: Does it matter which type of pencil or typewriter Ernest Hemingway used to write his stories? And is it important to knows what kinds of brushes Rembrandt used?
February 25th, 2011 at 5:45 am
I think you better move on with someone else that knows something about what good photography is. Drop him or her as a friend.
February 25th, 2011 at 6:21 am
While not a “pro” I’ve been shooting with lots of different cameras for many years. There are a hundred or so of my favorite shots hanging all through my house. The one shot that never fails to get comments from guests was taken with a five-dollar Kodak disposable! It’s not the camera, but the eye attached to the finger that squeezes the shitter release!
February 25th, 2011 at 6:21 am
While not a “pro” I’ve been shooting with lots of different cameras for many years. There are a hundred or so of my favorite shots hanging all through my house. The one shot that never fails to get comments from guests was taken with a five-dollar Kodak disposable! It’s not the camera, but the eye attached to the finger that squeezes the shutter release!
February 25th, 2011 at 6:35 am
First, lose your so-called friend; he/she is really not a friend if they are making you feel so inadequate. Second, the equipment you use doesn’t make you a professional. Coincidently, I made the “mistake” of purchasing a Nikon D300 when it first came out ( I really didn’t need and still don’t need a camera with so many options). Two years ago, when I decided to get my first DSLR,, I thought I would get the latest and “best” as my 1st DSLR. It has not made me a better photographer in the least. As a matter of fact, my daughter uses a D60 and her shots are amazing! She takes amazing photos with a point and shoot. Better than most shots I take-it’s all in her “point of view”. She has a great eye for seeing things; just a little different than most other people and the results are great!
Thirdly, if you are having fun with your camera, and are happy with your shots and the quality (I think you should be based on what I’ve seen), then keep what you have and keep having fun!
Finally, if you forgot- Lose your friend!
February 25th, 2011 at 6:39 am
Having a professional camera no more makes you a pro than owning a car makes you a NASCAR driver. I have an entry level Canon EOS Rebel and I know how to use it. I have a friend with a professional Nikon and she still takes pictures using the “little green box.” Neither of us are professionals but you look at shots from each of us, you can tell which came from me and which came from her. It’s about how you use what you have. I’ve venture to say that most professionals didn’t start out with a $3,000 camera . . . they worked their way up from the same models you and I shoot.
February 25th, 2011 at 6:50 am
Ask your friend if he buys a $30 hammer instead of a $5 hammer does that make him a professional carpenter? Will the $30 hammer prevent him from pounding in a nail without bending it any more than the $5 hammer? Hello?!
Sounds to me like your “friend” isn’t really a friend and is just jealous of your work.
What makes you a professional is if someone is willing to pay you for your work. I don’t care if you use the latest greatest dSLR or one of those $3 disposable cameras. You still have to know how to use it skillfully.
February 25th, 2011 at 8:36 am
Personally I think the very question is wrong. I know amateurs who shoot some of the very best images that I have seen anywhere, but they don’t “make a living” from photography. By definition, a professional photographer earns his keep from photography and that does not really say much about his skill level at all. There is some truth that as a professional, customers expect to see some top flight gear sometimes. But that is really window dressing as like it or not, they are really paying for a skilled person, not gear. One other note is that while amateurs can take very good photos, the pro must take decent to great photos EVERY TIME they are on a paying gig or the gigs will dry up very soon. In summary, skill level is different than the pro vs amateur question.
February 25th, 2011 at 8:42 am
@TSchulz — As a retired carpenter I must say that you are dead wrong. The main reason that do it yourselfers bend nails IS BECAUSE OF THE FIVE DOLLAR HAMMER. It balances wrong and will bend nails in anyone’s hands! Expensive tools are expensive for a reason and are usually worth the difference in price. I always buy the best that I can afford but that does not make me a professional either. I will still be an amateur with good tools until I raise my skill level beyond the capabilities of the tool. Good tools won’t make you great, but cheap tools will handicap you for sure!
February 25th, 2011 at 8:51 am
I agree with you Mark, a person may be paid to take photographs and make their living with photography, but the photographs are not good quality. Recently a photo on the front page was poorly focused because of an obviously incorrect aperture choice, resulting in a very short depth of field. The majority of the photo was out of focus yet the caption called attention to several of the subjects which appeared fuzzy. In my opinion, the photo was extremely amateur appearing, not professional at all.
February 25th, 2011 at 10:13 am
This sounds like a real jerk to be honest. Nikon is a great brand regardless of what he may think and it all comes down to how you use the camera and how far you’ve come along since you first started using it. Everyone whether they be clients, friends, or enthusiasts alike will have their own opinion. Do what you know makes you happy and if people are complimenting youion your creativity and if they are happy with your work, then don’t let this guy discourage you from your passion. I have been there a few times where people think they know better, and usually they don’t. Keep doing what you do and share your passion with those who deserve it.
February 25th, 2011 at 11:47 am
A camera is nothing with out batteries. It is the batteries… seriously though a good quality lens will do more for you on a cheap camera than a good camera with a cheap lens. Alwyas be open minded for feedback but take it with a grain of salt we all have our own style if you like it then it’s a keeper!
February 25th, 2011 at 12:12 pm
I use a Panasonic FZ 18 with a Raynox 250 clipped on, you could not get much less professional then that , and have received Honorable Mentions and a Medal in PSA approved International Exhibitions.
It is not the clothes that maketh the man !!!
My answer is simple: it is not the camera but what you do with that makes good images.
February 25th, 2011 at 12:14 pm
I use a Panasonic FZ 18 with a Raynox 250 clipped on, you could not get much less professional then that , and have received Honorable Mentions and a Medal in PSA approved International Exhibitions.
It is not the clothes that maketh the man !!!
My answer is simple: it is not the camera but what you do with it that makes good images.
February 25th, 2011 at 1:01 pm
Newbie, photographer, semi-pro, pro…Eternal debate of be or not to be !
a photographer is someone who capture the instant behing his camera ( now the camera can be $5 or $5000, he is still a photographer )
- a pro is someone who live 100% from his photography ( it does not mean he is good, it means he is able to sell and people buy from him !)
- as a driver is someone who is behind his wheel
I have seen some people taking very nice photography from their phone and some other taking ugly shots from their top of the line camera, what is takes is as was said already to have ‘the eye’.
The easy answer is : ignore and shoot shoot shoot ! (BTW your shot is stunning !)
February 25th, 2011 at 1:37 pm
Does a pot turn a cook into a Chef…only if like the photographer they know what they are doing regarldess of the equipment used..
February 25th, 2011 at 3:31 pm
You are a pro if you say you are a pro. There are things you need to know though…shutter speed, aperture, iso, and the study of light. Composure and the like. Ignore the haters and do your thing.
February 25th, 2011 at 3:45 pm
All the lenses and camera bodies out there won’t make you a pro. It’s the mind behind the person tripping the shutter.
The photographer makes the composition…..the camera records it.
February 25th, 2011 at 8:10 pm
I’m sure someone has already said this, but just in case:
1) a fancy camera does not make you a pro: earning a living from taking pictures makes you a pro; BUT
2) being a pro does NOT make you a good photographer. Oh no no no. There are lots and lots of terrible pro photographers out there. Just google a couple of pro photographers in your area and you’ll see what I mean.
So drop the label-envy and just enjoy YOUR photography, regardless of camera AND regardless of talent (yes yes, regardless of talent): if you enjoy taking pictures, if your heart starts beating a little bit faster every time you pick up your camera, then just go out and have fun! For yourself, not for anyone else.
February 26th, 2011 at 12:13 am
First of all I agree that the camera neither decides the quality of the photo or the professionalism of the person behind the camera. Being a professional entails both having attained a certain level of skill and earning some income from photography. That said, there are ‘Amateur’ or ‘Hobbyist’ who produce higher quality images than many professionals; they just don’t make a living off it.
February 26th, 2011 at 2:07 am
I shoot with a Canon 40D. I owned a Canon Rebel b4. Some of my most complimented shots were taken with the Rebel. Cameras only allow you to take your impressions. You see and create, and frame the shot. I know a Professional photographer who does shots of real estate for a business. He uses a Rebel for his job because he wears out a camera a year. He uses a more expensive model for his Art because of extra control features. He makes more money w the Rebel. Your “eye” is what matters not your camera!
February 26th, 2011 at 3:38 am
You bought your camera for what purpose? Your shots speak for themselves..Don’t accept jealous ridicule. your doing nothing wrong
February 26th, 2011 at 4:46 am
I don’t know if the camera necessarily makes you a pro, because I’ve seen some wonderful shots and pictures taken with a diposable camera. Access a few sites on the internet and you’ll see that great photography can be done with just about all the brands of camera out there.
A main brand, top-of-the-line choice of camera certainly puts a very good tool in your hands with which to work. I have a Canon Rebel xTi; I bought it at the time when it was the second Rebel on the market. After I bought it, I saw all kinds of discussion threads and critical reviews about Canon being much below par to what else was on the market. I didn’t let that stop me; I enjoy my camera.
Get to know your camera, and how to fine tune your skills with picture taking. Enjoy it! Have fun with it! Take pictures of everything and under all conditions, i.e., if it’s foggy outside, get out there and try and get a good picture of the fog. Have some fun!
February 26th, 2011 at 8:56 am
the camera you have is an amazing camera, but the camera isn’t what makes a pro, its the shots you take. and it sounds to me like your friend is just jealous, you should tell him that he’s being judgemental.
February 26th, 2011 at 9:12 am
I remember the answer to a question asked here about a year ago…”What’s the best camera a photographer can purchase?”
The answer was….”The best camera a photographer can get is…the one in his hand at the time!” This may not be verbatum, but you get the drift. I took the liberty of visiting your web page, and I suspect what we have is a little(or lot” of professional sour grapes.
I shoot with a Canon Rebel X2i, and I also have a friend that likes to remind me that my camara is advertised as an “Entry level” DSLR. He uses a much more sophisticated camera. but with a big difference…..I know how to use my camera, and work around it’s shortcomings.
I liked your work, and wish you the very best.
Regards,
Joe Griffith
February 26th, 2011 at 4:36 pm
Sorry to hear you have a friend who pushes you down to lift himself up. I’ve shot with many cameras in my life time from Pentax K-1000 to Nikon N-6006 for film. I currently use a Canon IS5 with a F8 lens and a Nikon D5000. Both have a big difference in capabilities and quality, but the challenge is knowing your equipment to get the best you can from it and improving on what you personally bring to the mix when you use them. Keep learning and growing and most of all love what you do. Every day you shoot is a new way to express yourself and experience new growth.
February 26th, 2011 at 7:41 pm
Its the person looking through the viewfinder. Nothing to do with the camera although its good to have a camera thats capable of producing a good image.
February 27th, 2011 at 2:27 am
With reference to this question, I would answer it on two fronts. 1 ,No camera ever took a photogragh,its the photographer who takes it,the camera is just a tool. 2 Dump your “friend“ .
February 27th, 2011 at 2:58 pm
about a year ago there was a story in a photography magazine were a professional photographer wanted to prove that its the photographer not the camera that makes a good photograph so he photographed a wedding with just a simple point & shoot camera and did a good job of photographing the wedding, i don’t remember who the photographer was but i think you get my point.
February 27th, 2011 at 4:20 pm
Regarding the submitted image. It would be a great picture even if it was taken with a cell phone. Assuming that photo is an average example of your work, it answers the question for you. People take pictures. Uor friend is either jealous or not your friend if he can’t recognize your talent. If he continues to berate you, take a portrait of him and turn it into a dart board. Have fun and keep up the good work.
February 28th, 2011 at 12:50 am
Though I’ve never had anyone approach me concerning the camera that I was using, I have had potential clients take their business elsewhere after learning that I use a Nikon D80.
In my opinion, the camera is merely a tool. No different than a chisel is to a sculpt0r or a paint brush to a painter. While some cameras come with more bells and whistles than others it is still the photographer than aims and shoots.
My portfolio shows the breadth of my ability as a photographer and should be all that is used to judge my capabilities, not the tools that I used to accomplish said photos.
March 2nd, 2011 at 4:19 am
I have loved this discussion. I still only photograph with a point and shoot, and get lots of compliments on my photography and sell photos. Yet, I always have to justify and feel apologetic that I don’t have a more expensive camera. I have even been told that I “can’t have a point and shoot” with the quailty of photos I have. I totally agree that it is the person and not the equipment that is creating the shot. I improve my art and work very hard at photography, and for now, a point and shoot allows me the portablity I need to take pictures of our day to day lives. Anybody that can afford to can buy the most expensive camera and equipment there is, and that still won’t make them a great artist. A great photographer loves taking pictures.
March 4th, 2011 at 3:54 pm
I have shot 40,000 pictures with the Pentax K100D Super. Takes about 2 years to achieve as a hobby photographer. I have impressed many by my photos, and I’m only a nature photographer with basic knowledge of photoshop (just enough to be dangerous)
The secret is what people think of when pro and photography are used in the same sentence. In my thoughts, a pro is someone who can sell his or her photos or is just really good at taking pictures/teaching photo classes or workshops. But to answer the question, no, a camera unto itself does not make you a pro, it is the effort made by the photographer is what helps you become a pro.
Two key elements are needed to make photos go from snapshot to professional portrait.
1. The photographer making the picture (not taking the photo)
2. The lens on the camera
I am by no means a professional in any sense of the word. But I try to learn something new every day!
I wish you the best!
March 5th, 2011 at 8:33 am
I happen to own a D90 why because I enjoy the option of JPEG and RAW. This is the simplest answer for your friend. The reason for buying it I wanted to expand my talent for myself with photography. Money aside it is not the price of the camera but the emotion you get when you hit the shutter button. That is difference between a picture taker and a memory maker. Even if you never take it off of auto you will always have the feeling of satisfaction that you did your best with what you had.
March 6th, 2011 at 1:19 am
Imo its the eye of the photographer that’s the most important part of the equation, I do feel that a good camera helps but helps aid the photographer
March 6th, 2011 at 1:30 am
The idiom “Sticks and stones may break my bones (but words will never hurt me)” may be appropriate. The subject of photography with your friend seems to be in the same category as discussing politics or religion. If the friend is a bully, deal with it, or a friend worth keeping avoid photography as a topic of discussion or come to an agreement; else, seek out other more compatible friends.
In the USA a pro photographer has established a legal entity as a business. This includes a federal tax ID, federal tax returns that demonstrate your business is indeed making an income entitling the business to deductions, state sales tax registration and submitting tax money, alias name filed with the state if business has a name other than your own, local business licensing has been obtained, an attorney has completed documentation that your business is a legal entity to protect you from culpability and legal action, you have the necessary contracts, model releases and file for copyrights, there is a marketing and branding process in place, and foremost, there are clients who are willing to hire and pay you, agreeing that you have met the specifications and expectations of the job. Nothing in this list specifies the type of camera or other photographic equipment you own, nor states that proceeds from photography are your sole support, although this point can be argued.
Many successful professional photographers state that 80% of their resources are devoted to business and 20% devoted to the actual photography. It could be said get a business education or experience first, then learn to be a photographer. There are two quotes that apply: “The expert in anything was once a beginner” and “Skill in photography is acquired by practice, not by purchase.” All said and done, the professional photographer has to have a passion and complementary traits for the business, if not, then the job will be drudgery. Success is typically gained through hard work and problem solving. Again no mention is made of the type of camera owned.
Hobbyist, a person whose “activity is done regularly in one’s leisure time for pleasure”; whereas, amateur is “a person who engages in a pursuit… on an unpaid basis”. In my mind there is a distinction in that an amateur pursues photography to achieve one or more goals with satisfaction more of a goal than pleasure. In either case, an occasional payment for photographic effort does not make the photographer a professional. Again no mention is made of the type of camera owned.
“A chain is no stronger than the weakest link.” Every photographer has a set of innate abilities, learned skills, chosen equipment and personal initiatives. A successful hobbyist, amateur or professional photographer, likely does an assessment, determines where their weak points exist, and acts to improve any weak points. If the demands of your photography show that the camera tool is a weak point, then the solution is to upgrade. Ultimately the client, either someone who hires you, or as a hobbyist/amateur you are the client, decides if the images made are acceptable. In my mind, one of the traits of an amateur is the desire to have others view their work to elicit acceptance or criticism. If so, remember “Sticks and stones may break my bones (but words will never hurt me)”. Note that camera was mentioned in passing.
Whether viewed as a tool or not, the camera is only one subset of many things and processes in the workflow to make an image and produce a displayed image to be viewed. To the consumer/hobbyist photographer much of this is transparent, done automatically, and/or post processed in user friendly software or by other means. To the professional or amateur photographer, the workflow can have many subsets requiring the proper learned skills, equipment and software to capture and produce the displayed image. In the end, it is the requirements of the end use that separate the professional from all others. The client demands and specifications must be met in order to be successful. The image content reigns; in other words, an excellent image is accepted by others regardless of the means used to make and display that image. It is all gaged by the expectations of the viewer. Again note that the camera was mentioned in passing.
Hopefully Harsh appreciates all of the comments and support to-date. I wish him success and personal satisfaction with his photography.
March 6th, 2011 at 4:29 am
I would recommend to TALK to your friend, and face him to your thougts. If this might cause a discussion and puts an end to your relationship, you finally know it was not a real friendship. If he will understand, he will change his mind, and learn from you: a real friend, then.
About equipement:
I would love to be able to downgrade this fat camara body I only have to use because of the picture size for printing reasons. To be honest: most of the people with gorgeous equipement try to hide their lack of knowledge and talent. Pro’s hate to carry the things they unfortunately need!
Do what ever you do, with the equipement that fits your needs!
like your work at your website. go ahead!
March 7th, 2011 at 6:03 am
Michael, I understand you wanting to shoot JPG/RAW. I have a D450 (Rebel XSi). I got mine, though, because it had a lot of the features of the higher end cameras, plus the added benefit of using SD cards instead of compact flash. I much prefer SD cards as almost all my other devices I have use them as well and they are interchangeable.
March 8th, 2011 at 12:42 am
I consider myself a Semi-Pro photographer. I take some paying photography gigs but earn a living from my day job. Keeping my photography in a part-time realm has given me the freedom to accept only the jobs I really want to do. Also, I have not been required to invest heavily in extremely expensive professional gear. Would I like to have pro gear? Of course, but justifying spending that much money for a semi-pro level is pushing it for me.
After taking 30,000+ photos on my D40 I was finally ready to upgrade to a better DSLR. I learned it backwards and forwards, shot weddings, portraits and photojournalism with it.
Only upgrade when you repeatedly are blocked creatively by the equipment you have.
Learn the craft on the cheaper gear and upgrade only after you have made enough money to afford it.
If you are doing weddings, wildlife, night or sports photography then the equipment you have DOES matter. Is it impossible to make those images with cheaper gear, NO. But, your success rate of making the exact image you need improves dramatically with the right gear. Also when booking clients, the gear you have DOES make an impression. If you only have consumer gear, you MUST have an OUTSTANDING portfolio to offset that negative impression.
Remind your friend that a new camera only makes you a better photographer IF you have improved your level to a point where the old camera is actually getting in the way of your making the image you want. Otherwise it is an expensive luxury.
March 8th, 2011 at 5:38 pm
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, photography is a purest individual sport and also for those with broad shoulders, for every 100 shots I take I like to at least have 1 keeper. I shoot with a Canon 50D which has won me many awards and accolades from my peers. I have also won comps with my point and shot Canon IXUS 980 pocket camera. Focus on getting the image right in the camera and leave your so called friends opinions with him, carrying all the gear we have to carry is enough to worry about, carrying his baggage is far too heavy. All else fails we can introduce your friend to one of mine who has to have the best of everything, strange about that bet he has a small pecker to go with his attitude. Keep enjoying what you like about photography take a look at what Ansell Adams produced with what he had to work with.
March 9th, 2011 at 4:47 pm
It’s simple. Don’t get into arguments….. just let your photos do the talking.
Clients don’t care what camera you use, as long as you can give them images suited for their needs.
March 9th, 2011 at 6:26 pm
its on the eye of the beholder.. the cameraman that takes his viewers to the excitement of photography.. not the use of high tech gadgets. . . the cameraman is the modern day Picasso!
March 10th, 2011 at 5:41 am
I’d tell him to do something “-Off”, add your own prefix. Some of the best photos I’ve seen were taken with point & shoots by photographers with skill and vision, nothing to do with the camera.
I use a Sony A700. Not the newest, shiniest, nor most technologically capable of cameras, but others do seem to enjoy my photos regardless.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/lendog64/5491803937/
March 10th, 2011 at 2:53 pm
“The most important component of a camera is the twelve inches behind it.” Ansel Adams
I can relate, shooting a Pentax seems to get strange looks from people using Canikon when I go out to shoot, but I take solace in knowing both of our cameras are only as good as we each make them.
March 11th, 2011 at 2:17 am
Ok… Don’t dis your friend…. he is probably just insecure
Your photograph is lovely.
As a working pro I can say CAMERA does not make the photographer. It’s a tool. I can get very nice photos from my point & shoot…but I prefer to use my pro cameras because I need the control!
As far as I am concerned, I think being a pro is having the skill set and experience to produce CONSISTENTLY high quality, fantastic photographs in many challenging situations.
I know quite a few remarkable non-pros that wow me with some fantastic photos…but when you look at their body of work, they are not consistent. Its not skill…its luck.
I dont want my clients to have to gamble on me having a “lucky day”.
When I go shooting with my friends is funny to have one borrow one of my “pro cameras” and take pics along side me all day and they are shocked at the end of the day when their pics arent up to par with mine!
The camera does not make the photographer! But a true pro does try use the best tool for the job.
March 11th, 2011 at 2:18 am
Ok… Don’t dis your friend…. he is probably just insecure
Your photograph is lovely.
As a working pro I can say CAMERA does not make the photographer. It’s a tool. I can get very nice photos from my point & shoot…but I prefer to use my pro cameras because I need the control!
As far as I am concerned, I think being a pro is having the skill set and experience to produce CONSISTENTLY high quality, fantastic photographs in many challenging situations.
I know quite a few remarkable non-pros that wow me with some fantastic photos…but when you look at their body of work, they are not consistent. Its not skill…its luck.
I dont want my clients to have to gamble on me having a “lucky day”.
When I go shooting with my friends is funny to have one borrow one of my “pro cameras” and take pics along side me all day and they are shocked at the end of the day when their pics arent up to par with mine!
The camera does not make the photographer! But a true pro does try use the best tool for the job.
March 11th, 2011 at 6:18 am
I have been shooting with DSLR’s for about 7 years. I started with the original Canon Digital Rebel. The camera took good photos. In the beginning, I didn’t. Through just shear numbers of shots, I learned something about composition. I shot in automatic mode exclusively. I then bought a Canon T1i and continued taking vast numbers of photos, only then in the creative auto modes (tv, av, etc.) and learned about ISO, Aperture and Exposure. Now I shoot with a Canon EOS 5D (my backup) and a Canon EOS 5D MK ii. I also have all L lenses. I now use only manual mode (including white balance). My point is that what makes my photography fairly decent is not the cameras I use now, but what I learned with use of the less robust cameras years ago. My gear is capable of doing more now than my original Rebel, but my photos are not necessarily better from a compositional point of view. Sometimes I look at some of my older photos and am quite pleasantly surprised. A professional camera does not make a great photographer – it just doesn’t hurt. A mediocre photographer will not be helped by a great camera. It’s like the person who can barely play a piano and buys a Steinway. Will that person be as good as Herbie Hancock when he first sits down to play? It’s doubtful.
March 11th, 2011 at 8:19 am
@ Tom Kelly,
very honest, and very true!
March 11th, 2011 at 11:47 am
I am only a newbie with an EOS 60D but I think its about the level of skill you have, not just the tools. Obviously it helps if your tools broaden your range – I can do more with my new camera than my old powershot because I have more control over settings, have more f-stops to play with and have a higher ISO capacity, and can’t wait to see what dimensions I can capture once I get my long hoped for bouncing speedlite – But these are all useless if I don’t know how to identify what combination of them to use to capture the most amazing shot.
Personally, I would go by your own judgement and that of your clients (if you are doing this professionally). As long as you feel that what you are producing is amazing and your clients are happy, who cares what your friend thinks? He is probably just a little put out that you are getting better results with cheaper equipment. Or maybe (though unlikely) he thinks that with your talent, you could turn amazing into spectacular with better equipment.
March 11th, 2011 at 3:49 pm
I had a normal digital camera. Then I got a Canon REBEL and I think my photos are better. I felt like my shots in the previous camera were good… but I couldn’t make them that good… now with the REBEL I think it fits my creativity more. I’ve been able to take shots that I could “see” in my head but I couldn’t make with the old digital camera. Now what I see in my head I can do it with the REBEL.
March 11th, 2011 at 4:20 pm
I have a question for you; Are you doing photography for your friend or yourself? If it is for yourself then be happy with what you are doing regardless of his comments. If you ask for his opinion then value that and try it his way. The camera does not make a photographer, it is how he uses it is ……….that’s what counts. Be proud of the label “newbie” if you are new to photography and doing awesome work, you are showing the “oldies” that you are good enough.
March 12th, 2011 at 2:42 pm
Get a different friend!
pro = all of your livelihood.
semi-pro = make a little money
photographer = priceless!
March 13th, 2011 at 4:29 pm
Harsh, let me add my voice to the chorus. Your “friend” is seriously tripping. I got married in June of 2010 and the “pro” photographer we hired showed up with a D90 . He ended up royally screwing up the shoot. The ceremony was outdoors in a garden and Mr professional could not get the lighting right. The results were so bad that (a) We demanded our money back and got it, (b) I rescued a good number of the pictures by retouching them in Photoshop and Lightroom. The missus was not a happy camper!
The following month, a friend of mine got married at the same location and I took pictures for free using my D5000. I did this purposefully to go back to show the “pro” I had hired for my own wedding how it should have been done. It was not a pleasant conversation and he kicked out of his studio, but he saw the difference in our shooting technique ( he did not admit it, but had nothing negative to say about my shots)
So take heart, your pictures are amazing. Yes, there are limitations to using a D5000 compared to a d300 or whatever your “friend” thinks is the bees knees. But its not the size of the dog in the fight, its the size of the fight in the dog.
Recently I met a pro photographer Drew Smith in Washington DC and he told me that he was tired of people asking him what type of camera he shot with (I did not ask!) He said he still uses photoshop 6, and that his one of his favorite cameras was an entry level canon dslr. Drew says its what emotion you can capture that makes a photog. The tools just make it easier. Your friends just wishes he was you!
March 14th, 2011 at 10:53 am
Well camera is half the story. You need creativity and you need a camera. Creativity will get you a really good composed, artistic, dramatic and wonderful picture but creativity won’t get you image quality, sharpness, noise, DOF and other stuff without the help of a camera.
Same goes for a camera. If you have Canon 7D with 50mm f1.2 L lens, thats doesn’t mean that you can take artistic pictures. Good kit doesn’t make one compose good pictures.
Its all depends on what type of photography you are doing. In fact, whatever type you do, camera doesn’t makes you a pro. I have seen people taking extremely good pics with nokia n95 e.g.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/nivshon/3238892224/
March 16th, 2011 at 4:32 am
I’m a long time painter, recent convertee to photography. There are ‘pros’ in every field and subfield and there is only one answer to this question. It’s moot. What is a pro? Do they make a living from their photography? Do they make amazing pictures? Do they do it daily? Do they share their vision with the world? Do they care about what other people think, really? In airbrushing, a kid selling cheap logos on t-shirts by the boardwalk is a pro. In oil painting, if your work is over someone’s couch (even if you are not proud of it) then you are pro.
I think you are pro when someone outside your family is willing to pay you money for your work. You are pro when someone wants your work because it’s good, not because you are a friend or family, it’s because the work is actually worth more than the materials it’s made from (print paper & ink, oil pint and canvas .. etc…)
In professional golfing there is a story of a pro vs semi-pro and they were arguing, the semi-pro explaining that the only difference was the equipment. The pro laughed and said “fine, I’ll bet you $1,000 that I can beat you with a coke bottle – you can use my clubs.” The semi-pro agreed. They played just as they agreed, the pro with the coke bottle, the semi with the pro’s titanium-magnesium $$$$$ clubs. Guess who still won?
I take good pictures with my point and shoot (which I carry EVERYWHERE) and very good pictures with my dslr. The subject, the content and the photographers skill are what make them who they are, not the device they carry. This is no friend, kick them to the curb, shut up and shoot!
March 16th, 2011 at 8:00 pm
Well, try to swap cameras. In the past I did it some times. =P
March 17th, 2011 at 3:39 pm
I have to agree with everyone else. Its the person behind the camera. I’ve been dabbling with photography on and off for roughly 23 years. My first camera was a Kodak Disc camera and I was 7 (no joke) and i i’ve dabbled with point and shoots (Sony Cybershot 3.3 mp and a Panasonic Lumix 14mp) and just got my first DLSR (Canon Rebel XS) because I wanted to start playing with different lens’s. Point is this, with the Kodak Disc and being 7 years old made things kind of interesting because i didn’t have the practice and quite frankly i didn’t have the passion for it (i wanted to stay in and play video games lol) so my pictures would come out all goofy looking or what have not. I didn’t start taking it seriously until around 8 years later and within a year after that couldn’t by film for it anymore. Gave up for a while because i was a broke kid in jr high school and when i got a decent paying job in 2001 thats when things were going digital and i got my cybershot. took a while and pictures were just ok because i didn’t understand the point of F stops and aperture. It was all greek. I eventually outgrew it and figured i’d continue the point n shoot process with the panasonic. Very good point n shoot, pictures were best i ever had and comparable to some photos with friends that had dlsrs. But for what i was doing DLSR is what worked for me which is another learning process because of understanding the lenses and more or less the workings of when to change lens, wide angle lens, filters. Alot more to it.
Long story short is this. Anybody could call themself a pro. It doesn’t matter the camera you use (as you can tell by the ones i’ve used in the past). Its about the eye of the person using the camera. I got an entry level Canon. I’m not remotely good with it yet. Just because i have a $600 camera isn’t going to make my pictures that much better then the kodak disc that I used, But the way i take the photos is whats going to stand out.
You need to remember, when it comes to a cameras price really only plays into how many options you want. A good photographer works within his/her boundaries. It all boils down to how you use the tools that are given to you.
March 17th, 2011 at 6:37 pm
I just ended up some how in this page….i also share almost same sentiments when somebody instead of admiring the work of photographer admires the his camera more, for few people its camera that makes photos better, you cant help it.
for all those, at times i reply back… yes definitly the camera makes the difference …similar, as the expensive crockery contributes to make food taste better.
give him same reply
March 18th, 2011 at 3:07 pm
A “pro” in any field is someone who is either so highly skilled that they are recognized as a superior talent by their peers, or, more prosaically, they are paid to perform. The equipment one owns does not make one a professional and likewise the lack of gear doesn’t make one less of a professional. Was Lincoln not a professional lawyer compared to your local ambulance chaser because Lincoln owned fewer law books? If I buy more guitars than B.B. King, do I suddenly become a consumate professional blues man?
March 18th, 2011 at 5:55 pm
i am glad such a thought came up for this was something i have been struggling in my mind as well…
Recently, while on a visit to some of the poorer parts in my country (India), a colleague/friend/well wisher( i am not sure:D) pointed out to me the same thing… I was telling him how much i enjoyed taking pictures and the way it stimulated my thoughts, creativity. I showed him a few shots. He looks at them and says ” wow! that’s a good picture and bang the next comment -” YOU HAVE A VERY GOOD CAMERA!!”…
well that did bite me but out of courtesy i just nodded…
It got me thinking and that evening, this was the conclusion i had – ” people are very selective about their compliments” – and the perfect example that struck my mind is this – For those of you who have heard of the game CRICKET will know Sachin Tendulkar (boy! he is famous! well you can substitute it with any cricket player of your liking). Nobody will dare say that Sachin is a great player because of the cricket bat he uses!!! See! even a great musician for that matter!! No one would have said, “Hendrix, buddy, you were good ‘cos of that great guitar you carried around!”
And with that i was able to console myself, knowing fully well that the pictures i shot and shoot bring out a beauty that i see before shooting and definitely my camera helps to express my thoughts and the better it is – the more clear my expression… so now i don’t let the comments bother me anymore… I point them to Tendulkar and ask them to say the same thing about him as well!!!!
March 19th, 2011 at 1:58 am
@geom, I like the Jimi Hendrix metaphor: I will use that one. Even those who don’t like his music recognize that Jimi was a musical genius and could coax beauty from any axe he handled. I guess most people are like I used to be “What? You point the box at something and shoot, what’s so artistic about that?” That’s not taking into account the fact that the camera cannot create something out of nothing, that it has far more limitations than any other artistic medium, and that just pushing the button doesn’t make you a photographer: As y’all have said, a photographer makes pictures, a hobbyist/snapshooter takes them.
March 19th, 2011 at 3:56 am
http://www.youtube.com/user/GirlofSouthernGrace#p/a/u/0/JMXZMRU6JUM
I took this picture with a Kodak EasyShare camera that I got for less then $100 dollars. No, the camera you have does not make you a pro, it is how you use the camera you have!
March 20th, 2011 at 2:13 am
This is funny because I keep trying to convince my friend that her little point-and-shoot camera is good enough to take great pictures, but she insists that she needs me and my camera for her kids’ pictures. Her camera does just fine when I use it though.
March 20th, 2011 at 1:43 pm
No camera, however much you paid for it will make you a pro. I was looking over the equipment for one of my favorite landscape photographers and was surprised to learn he shot with the Canon EOS450D is also an entry level DSLR. AMAZING shots with basic equipment. Let your eye and your talent guide you, not so called friends who will down play your talent over the size of your wallet.
March 20th, 2011 at 4:09 pm
Equipment doesn’t make you a pro! Its your skills! A pro knows what they are doing and can pull of the assignment even under terribly challenging situations. A pro IS INSURED and has back up equipment in case of emergencies. They are the ones who are trying to make a living and take it seriously.
While I know a lot of very talented photographers I know very few true professional photographers. To be a pro it takes an investment of time and money. Not necessarily investment in equipment (besides reliable back ups of course) but a financial responsibility for both liability insurance and the proper equipment to protect your files. PLUS an investment of time and money in education and skills practice to produce consistent quality, work. A huge dash of talent, timing and a good eye round out the recipe for a PRO.
Lacking ANY of these ingredients can be the difference between a skilled amateur and a PRO.
Also remember the headaches of being a pro too…. you wont be doing it for you you are serving a customer and a lot of STRESS can be involved. It seems glamorous …. its not… its sooooo much more fun to shoot for your enjoyment. When I an shooting for pleasure it is a release, creative expression, very fulfilling. When I am shooting for clients is a “whole nother ball game!”
A lot of “weekend warriors” go out there un-prepared, un-insured and under cut the pros because they have a site with a few lucky shots…not a consistent body of work. What we end up with is the photography market is de-valued and a lot of people who are very unhappy that their precious “once in a life time” event is over and they don’t have their photos…
Okay I will get off my soap box now….
Just enjoy what you do! Dont let anyone get you down for having less than the best equipment. Have fun!
If you are going pro, BE SERIOUS and responsible, get insurance and dont take on anything you dont feel like you can handle in a professional manner.
March 23rd, 2011 at 3:26 am
i do agree that the equipment doesn’t make u pro and it’s ur vision that makes u pro
but
my question is if the equipments doesn’t make u pro then they keep producing them ??????
March 24th, 2011 at 12:25 pm
Because we keep buying them? I think the smart photographers hold on for some period of time after new stuff comes out: not decades but not months. We have to buy new stuff or they will cease producing any. So buy new, just be wise about it: glass > plastic and holds it’s value better. Don’t buy into the hype and the hyperbole. Buy things that are compatible with what you have.
And as everyone has said here, you can have the best Hasselblad, Rollei, Linhof, Mamiya, Leica, Nikon D3X or Canon 1d MKIII and still make *&^% photos. You can use an iPhone 3GS with 2 MP and come up with real art (heck, use a paint can and a 4×4 piece of bark and you’ve got art.)
My favorite t-shirt of all time: art is not a mirror to reflect, but a hammer to shape.
Without the heart of an artist, they are just pictures.
April 19th, 2011 at 9:51 pm
I just wanted to share this, i dont know if you will read it but anyway
My friend J uses her phone camera which has 5 pixels, sony erricson, and she takes better pictures than me, an owner of a D5000.
Ignore him, its YOU who makes a professional not the camera.
May 27th, 2011 at 3:06 am
Great writing , I did learn a few things here, keep up the good work. A lot of people are afraid of dentist and just postpone their appointment but in the long run it just makes it worst.
July 14th, 2011 at 2:58 am
This argument of operator verses equipment has been around forever and manages to be a major discussion point in every hobby. The only thing you should really take away though is to buy the best you can reasonably afford, and best doesn’t always mean Nikon D3x or a Hasselblad. Best for you may be a point and shoot due to portability, or a high end SLR depending on the type of photography you like to do and what you want your images to look like. Consider musicians for example, they spend thousands and thousands of dollars on their equipment and does it make them better at playing the guitar, or writing music? No it doesn’t, but it plays a huge role in their music since it gives them the sound they want and feel most comfortable with it. They are two pieces of a puzzle really; whoever compared it to race cars and drivers is spot on, a fast car won’t win the race with a novice driver, but a pro driver in an extremely slow car will be severely handicapped. Just because you don’t have supposedly “pro” level equipment doesn’t mean you can’t take good pictures, but theres a good reason why the pictures in national geographic aren’t taken with cell phone cameras. Ken Rockwell had it very wrong in his article on how the camera doesn’t matter, because it simply does along with being a good photographer.
February 20th, 2012 at 6:41 am
Your friend is compensating for feeling inferior – he knows his shots aren’t as good even with his more expensive equipment. You could tell him that you don’t know if you are a pro or not but that your pictures are good because of your eye, not your camera.
February 24th, 2012 at 3:59 am
While it SHOULDN’T matter, it DOES matter in the working world. (Mind you, I’m very anti that thought process.) People that know about cameras (photographers, models, etc.) have in their mind how good they expect you to be based on your camera (which is silly) so if you’re sporting a less expensive camera, they assume you’re inexperienced and a hobbiest. If you have a more expensive camera, they assme you are doing plenty of paid shoots to warrent such a nice camera. Faulty thinking for sure! However, I’ve definitely felt the camera discrimination and I’d be lying if I said such camera elitism didn’t push me to purchase my Mark II a little quicker–even though I felt I produced quality images with my Rebel.
March 17th, 2012 at 9:47 am
A Nikon D5000? HAHA I have SD780 =D a COMPACT camera not even a DSLR. I shoot photos like these http://www.flickr.com/photos/33631919@N08/
I love photography because it makes me feel happy and I don’t care being labelled ‘amateur’ ‘newbie’ or whatever. I hate it when people think of photography as just ‘equipment’ and ‘gear’. Photography is more than that–it’s a feeling, thought, things I can’t really express in words.
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