First cameras became simple and cheap and many decided to be their own amateur photographer. Then with digital photography so accessible, the average person can not only take the pictures, but print them or distribute them online for little cost. Yet, sometimes it’s just good to leave the photography to others, and here are some reasons why.
The first problem with being the chief photographer is that you must always be looking for the ‘perfect shot’ instead of enjoying what is happening. If you’re going to be good at it, you must think like a photographer. Have you ever taken so much time to get a shot that you missed the event? Recently we learned that our granddaughter would be in a parade that would be streamed on the Internet. I grabbed the camera but missed seeing her because I was trying to focus the camera. Now I wish I had just enjoyed the moment and let them do the picture taking.
Electronics in cameras have definitely made them simple to use. However, keeping all its potential in your mind can be a different story. What do the icons on top of the knobs mean? How do you turn the flash or auto focus on or off? What does P, TV, Av, or M stand for? Of course you can look them up in the manual but unless you keep using the features, you will forget and then they are as if not present on the camera.
As the photographer, you are often required to get into obtuse contortions or obnoxious places to get just the right shot. Further, you can lose a lot of friends by sticking the camera in their face every time they smile. You may well be required to prod and cajole them into smiling just once more. Why not let someone else be the bad guy for a change?
So let’s say you are the trusted photographer for some important event. Now you are the hero whom others figure has all the time in the world to send them CDs filled with all your good shots. Or you might spend your time sending the pictures to others via email or posting them on a webpage.
But it’s more than just the time involved. Though digital photography need never be printed, some friends simply don’t have access to this media. For them you will need to buy photographic paper and lots of ink for your printer. Oh, you don’t have a printer? If not, be sure to get one that has multiple ink cartridges so that they can be replaced individually when all the relatives keep asking for more prints.
You won’t have any trouble being identified as a tourist if you hang a camera around your neck and take plenty of shots. Oh, and don’t be shocked if people are offended that your picture taking seems to be more important than they are.
If you have a small car repair problem, you probably fix it yourself. But when a major problem arises, you take it to a mechanic. This principle also applies to photography. Don’t get rid of your camera. But when a major event comes up, why don’t you get an expert to take the pictures and you just concentrate on enjoying yourself for a change.
When you want your photos done right, choosing the best photographer for your needs is worth the investment. If you follow the principles above, you will likely be glad you had it done professionally. Del Haven Studio is the location of an experienced Virginia Beach Maternity Photographer who is very skilled - as you can see from her website portfolio.