Do I have what it takes to become a professional photographer?

Question

here are some of my best photos,
http://flickr.com/photos/jon_bradley/sets/72157594314861643/

keep in mind that I took all these photos with a P&S (point and shoot) camera, I would like a DSLR, but I just turned15, and can't exactly get the funds for it, till I get a job, which should be soon.
So please, answer honestly.

Thanks

Answer 1

I have to say, that mike s, the answerer above, is an idiot.

Your photos are exceptional, both for your age and for your equipment. I completely understand your position, since I was there once.

I think you have the makings of a pro, although I do think you should go to school for it if it's what you want to do with your life. Not only will you learn a TON, but you will be surrounded by people that also love photography, and you'll make some great friends that you have a lot in common with.

I definitely wish you much luck. Photography is so much fun, and the world needs more people that don't just take sunset and macro flower pictures.

Oh, and you can check out my photos as well if you want. You'll see that I'm no professional myself, definitely an amateur. I have yet to make money off of my photos, but I was just offered a job shooting some photos of a band, so we'll see.

www.flickr.com/photos/debnfodz

Answer 2

You don't need university training for this kind of photography. Most event photography -- weddings, quincineras, dance recitals, etc. -- is "formula" photography. Find someone who does it, and ask if you can be their assistant, and go on several shoots with them. Tell them you'll work for little or nothing to learn. (I assisted a wedding photographer for a half-dozen weddings.) After that, you know the ropes. If this isn't an option, go to a dance school, Little league baseball games, the Special Olympics, etc. and take pictures for free until you have a portfolio. Then start selling. You don't have to be a great photographer. Learn some basic poses and get the exposure right. Remember cross-selling: a 12 year old's dance or piano recital can lead to a senior portrait (you'll need lights for that), and perhaps weddings, etc.

Answer 3

yeah, i'd say your pictures are really good. my favorites would have to be the one of the lamp on the stack of books, the second one of the rose with the spotlight on it, and the water coming out of the tap. the lamp photo had a good composition and focus, the rose had amazing colors and shadows, and the tap photo was an interesting close-up.

DSLR camera's aren't that expensive and the prices are coming down anyways so they'll be pretty affordable by the time you can afford one. you might want to think about getting a macro lens when you get your camera, because your close-ups would be awesome. and those aren't too expensive either.

Answer 4

Creative shots, great eye, interesting subject presentations. If you did all this with P&S, you'll love a DSLR - although they do always say, a great photographer can take great shots with any camera; a great camera still needs a great photographer. I would recommend checking out www.betterphoto.com for more information and advice regarding photography as a career path; also, for more professional opinions of your shots. I'm not involved with the site, other than as a student in one of their online courses, so I'm not trying to sell you anything!

Good luck!

Answer 5

Wow, those pictures are great! You definetly have what it takes. I took a photography course last semester in college and it was a great experience being in a dark room and developing my own pictures. (But of course now mostly everyone is using digital) My advice is to keep capturing different moments everyday on camera, that will definetly enhance your skills.

You should consider entering your best photograph on the National Geographic contest "Your Shot" online. Don't miss out on this opportunity. They feature their best photographs every month online and in their magazine. Go here http://www7.nationalgeographic.com/ngm/yourshot/

Good luck!!! :)

Answer 6

If you really took all these with a point and shoot camera, all I've got to say is you've got a great natural eye, and an abundance of natural talent. Keep at it. Go to school and develop your craft. You've got a great start, and a great chance.

Answer 7

with the exception of the sunset, they look like general snap shots. you can get a 300d or 400d (i think that exists), for not too much money.

but to be a pro, not only does it have to be good - you have be able to make a living off of it. and should be able to shoot photo's that you have no interest in taking - as those are the money makers.

Answer 8

I am a student photographer myself. I would like to say that your pictures are really great!!! You should consider going to school for it as another person commented because you will learn ALOT and make good friends as well. You have a natural talent :)

Answer 9

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Answer 10

Did you go to school for photography? Too bad you didnt live in southern Ca. Im going to makeup artistry school and could use a good photograper like you to work with!!!