A Journey of Growth: From Amateur to Professional Photographer in 3 Years
Three years ago, almost to the day, I had photos taken of my children—a moment every parent cherishes. These photos were captured during a mini session offered by a local photographer who was just starting out in the world of professional photography. At the time, she had little experience with the intricate techniques required to master a camera or the extensive post-production work that goes into creating stunning images in Photoshop. Don't get me wrong—I treasure these photos because they feature my kids, and as a mom, any photo of my children holds a special place in my heart. However, these images likely won't find a permanent spot on the walls of my home.
The reason? The photographer, bless her enthusiasm, was just beginning her journey. She didn’t yet understand how to fully utilize her camera’s capabilities, relying on auto settings throughout the session. The result was a set of photos that, while filled with love and effort, missed the mark technically. For instance, my youngest was distracted, looking at something on the ground, her sweet face obscured. My boys, meanwhile, looked like they would have preferred chasing each other around the yard instead of sitting in front of a hastily arranged backdrop of hay and a random pumpkin. Even with a top-of-the-line camera and premium L-series lenses, the lack of experience showed.
Fast forward three years, and the scene is almost identical: the same children, the same spot, the same camera, and yes, the same photographer—me. But now, everything has changed. After three years of relentless dedication, proper schooling, and countless hours of practice—often to the point of frustration where I nearly gave up—I’ve transformed from an amateur into a skilled, confident professional photographer.
Back then, I had a clear vision of what I wanted to achieve and a realistic understanding of the hard work it would take to get there. I knew the path wouldn’t be easy, and success wouldn’t come overnight. But I was determined, and I’m proud to say that I pursued my passion with everything I had.
Today, when I look at the photos I now take of my children—captured with the same camera and the same equipment as three years ago—I see the difference that experience, education, and persistence make. The compositions are deliberate, the lighting is perfect, and every shot tells a story. My youngest’s face is now beautifully lit, capturing her expression as she gazes into the camera. My boys, rather than looking restless, are engaged and happy, their personalities shining through each frame.
These new photos will undoubtedly grace the walls of my home, serving not only as memories of my children but as a testament to my journey as a photographer. They remind me of how far I’ve come, how much I’ve learned, and how fulfilling it is to turn a passion into a skill that I can be proud of.
So, if you’re considering starting a journey—whether it’s in photography or another field—remember that growth takes time, dedication, and a willingness to learn from every experience. The rewards, as I’ve found, are more than worth the effort.
