Thank you all for this interesting discussion. I have absolutely no ambition to become a pro photog (again), I am happy the way things are in my life but...
One very basic question to all pros/wanabees/newbies/starters and ambitious, serious amateurs. When I started some times back in 1970's (still a child) I started shooting and developing B&W prints on my own and reading books on all the how to's. After a few years and an engineering course later, in my twenties I realized I wanted to learn more and maybe become pro photog, so I took some courses on photography and on how to run a photog business. Isn't that the way things are today? I mean wouldn't the right way to start be by taking some courses, reading and taking pictures of everything to gain experience and to learn by books and mistakes? As far as I see in some ways it is easier today, onece you have a computer and a camera you can take thousands of pictures at no costs, analyzing each one of them and throwing away every one you want without a loss of a penny. But still, in my opinion there is still a need for learning and reading theory and at least some basics. Most of the things have not changed just some new tools to handle, the basics of photography and image composition is still the same since our eyes and brains has not changed due to evolution.
So, isn't reading books important any more? I would be scared to death to have an "assistant" with me on a wedding if I have no idea about the assistants basic knowledge and understanding of photography and equipment. By that, I am not saying I would not be prepared to offer some help but it would need to be in my spare time and the assistant would not be a photographer but an assistant (read: apprentice), carrying bags and handling hardware and observing things, listening to me. At least the first time, until I know who he/she is. So the question of who is the owner of images would not come up at all.
I think some kind of portfolio is a must. Even if it is not based on events but by showing some images you show that you know what you are doing and how to handle the hardware, lighting, colours and situations. I would say that a starter's portfolio can be built up on almost anything, since anything is better than nothing. Actually, best is I think if it is a mix because that shows a great deal of flexibility and ability to handle all situations. So, out and shoot, crawl in dirt for macro or close ups, ask family members and friends to pose for portraits, botanic gardens are very good places too especially for flowers, pets and other animals and so on. A wedding is not a party, not for the photographer. The few weddings I did I have no other memories of except work. Definitely not fun for the photographer.
Sorry if I was long and boring... Now I am ready. :sweat:
BTW, I am not joking here. In this day and age, some folks may be willing and more than happy that instead of hiring a photographer but actually be paid for have their photos of their big day to be taken plus printed and PAID!!!!
