Monday 9 May 2011

The 3 Step Process To Becoming A Certified Photographer

By Charlie Armstrong


Several people wonder if they must have a formal degree in order to become a certified professional photographer. Fortunately that you do not have to have a formal degree however , you do need photography training and know-how about the photography industry in order to obtain the title of Certified Professional Photographer.

In order to obtain your Certified Professional Photographer certification, you need to participate in a three step process. First, you need to declare your candidacy with the PPCC (Professional Photographic Commission Committee). Second, you need to pass the CPP exam. Lastly, you need to pass the image submission review.

The first step is declaring your candidacy. Unlike other professional certification, that require years of work in the field, this certification does not require field time. It does require you to pay $100 to declare your candidacy and show client work you have accomplished in the past 24 months. You then have three years to pass the CPP exam and image submission review. If you do not pass after three years then your candidacy is voided and you have to start the process over.

Once you have expressed your candidacy, you'll need to start studying for the CPP exam. You will find three types of exams: Commercial, Portrait and Sports. Once you sign up for the time and location for the test, you'll indicate which type of the exam you want to take. You'll take the test multiple times if needed. It's 100 multiple choice question test with a two hour time limit . You will need seventy correct answers to pass and it's also a Scantron test.

The next step is passing the Image Submission Review. Some people pass this first before the CPP exam. It is your choice as to which step you would like to take first. You submit 20 images to the PPCC. All submissions are required to submit 6 compulsory images along with 14 images from client work in the past 24 months.

The primary half a dozen pictures will be the required pictures. The compulsory photographs comprise of 3 required and three elective photographs. The three mandatory photographs should separately exhibit Short Lighting 3:1 ratio, Broad Lighting 3:1 ratio and Selective focus with nominal depth of field inside your specialty (note: senior photographers are unable to submit scenery pictures).

Photos 4, 5 and 6 most choose from the following list to show: High Key Image, Low Key Image, Rule of Thirds, Use of Shape, Form, and Texture, Balance (symmetrical or asymmetrical), color harmony, "s" curve line, assertive, angular, or masculine line, or architectural techniques.

If your first 6 compulsory images are not acceptable then the entire portfolio will be rejected. You will receive a letter in the mail 1-2 weeks after submitting your images to inform you of the passing or failing of your images. After completing and passing this three step certification process, then you are officially a Certified Professional Photographer.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment

Ex4.Me