As an active wedding photographer, I regularly take time to see what other photographers are doing, in the Oklahoma City area and in other areas too. I would be irresponsible if I didn’t! In my recent web travels, I discovered a whole ring of Guides that are aimed at giving some kind of “free” information to brides. I can’t tell you how many of these articles are full of useless, sometimes hilarious information.
I found several sources of information that seem to be the real McCoy. Instead of adding to the unending fray of articles, guides and tips, I thought I’d point out a few organizations that photographers may apply to join. Some organizations require extensive knowledge in order to display certain logos. By finding out which professional photography organizations your potential photographer belongs to, is a step in determining if they are right for you.
There are national, international and local trade groups. A good photographer will be connected to national and international groups through these local trade groups.
WPPI Wedding and Portrait Photographers International. - Is an organization dedicated to producing high quality images with impact. They have regular contests that recognize the best photography in their field. Photographers who have won several WPPI awards are among the best of the best.
PPA Professional Photographers Association. This organization is devoted to the professional photographer. They hold regular contests that also recognize the best photography in the world. They also provide many other services and information that keep these professionals out front and well informed. Photographers who are members of the PPA are serious about making photography their profession and work to perpetuate the craft. Photographers who have PPA certifications clearly exhibit an in depth and thorough knowledge of photography. Photographers who have been members or who have made outstanding contributions to the photography world are given awards, merits and special distinctions.
WPJA From their website: “The Wedding Photojournalist Association is an organization composed of photojournalists and wedding photographers from around the world. What sets our members apart in the industry is their candid, documentary approach – a distinctly artistic vision toward wedding photography”. They have some fairly strict membership requirements. Members of the WPJA have websites that display journalistic style wedding photography and very little else.
See my next article on photographers organizations around the Oklahoma City area.