What Makes a Photographer?

It’s funny how everyone tries to tell what you are or aren’t. I spend a lot of time on the internet talking and working with other photographers and artists and every once in awhile I’ll run into a situation where somone is telling another that they are or aren’t this or that. For example some will say you’re not a photographer if you use instagram or if you shoot all your shots with a cell phone. I’ve even heard you’re not a photographer until you’ve shot film. Is there any credence to these claims? What really makes a photographer, after all?

what makes a real photographer

Photo by 55Laney69; ISO 100, f/2.8, 1/320-second exposure.

Ultimately it comes down to who you believe you are. It doesn’t take a certain amount of equipment, prints-sold, clients, or even experience to make you a photographer. Whether you shoot with an iPhone, Nikon F6, or D4 it doesn’t matter — though if you’re shooting with a Nikon D4 I’m very envious of you. If you’re constantly taking pictures and capturing your world then you are a photographer.

If instagram is your medium or if you’re shooting weddings for clients all across the country, it doesn’t matter. What does matter is your drive and love for the art. Being a photographer means sharing your world in your own way.

Do you process your photos or take them and share them straight to your friends via Facebook or Twitter? Either way you’re a photographer. The beauty about photography is that each person who holds a camera has the ability to uniquely capture the world around them. It’s all about sharing and loving the art.

what makes a true photographer

Photo by Wendelin Jacober; ISO 50, f/5.0, 1/125-second exposure.

Chances are if you’re reading this article you’re a photographer, or at least well on your way to becoming one. Happy Shooting.

About the Author:
James Elliott is an award winning photographer and creator of Through the Lens – the art and tech blog curated by himself and others. The site offers more tips, inspiring art, and featured artists.

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