5/17/2011

The 3 Step Process To Become a Certified Photographer

By Charlie Armstrong


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

In order to acquire your Certified Professional Photographer certification, you need to take part in a three step process. First, you need to declare your candidacy with the PPCC (Professional Photographic Commission Committee). 2nd, you need to pass the CPP examination. Then finally, you must pass the image submission review.

Step one is expressing your candidacy. In contrast to other professional accreditations that require years of work in the field, this certification does not require industry time. It does require you to pay $100 to declare your candidacy and display client work you have accomplished in the past two years. After this you have three years to pass the CPP test and image submission evaluation. If you do not pass after 36 months then your candidacy is voided and you've got to start this process over.

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

The second step is passing the Image Submission Review. A number of people pass this first before the CPP test. It is your choice as to which action you would like to take first. You submit twenty images to the PPCC. All submissions are required to submit six compulsory photos along with fourteen pictures from client work in the past 24 months.

The initial six pictures must be the compulsory photos. The mandatory pictures comprise of three mandatory and three elective images. The three mandatory photos must independently demonstrate Short Lighting 3:1 ratio, Broad Lighting 3:1 ratio and Selective focus with minimal depth of field within your niche (note: senior photographers cannot submit landscape photography).

Pictures 4, 5 and 6 most choose from the following list to demonstrate: 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 1st six mandatory pictures aren't satisfactory then the whole portfolio will be turned down. You will receive a letter in the mail 1-2 weeks right after presenting your pictures to inform you of the passing or failing of your images. Right after completing and passing this 3 step certification procedure, then you are officially a Certified Professional Photographer.




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