In today's world it seems like everyone wants to be a photographer. It's the new "fad" thing to be into...that and making cupcakes. With the accelerated world of digital media and camera technology, the ability to own a camera and take "decent" pictures has become commonplace. It seems as if the wedding industry (in particular) is rapidly becoming over populated with photographers. This in mind, the photography industry must respond. I have heard several responses as to what actions should be taken and I want to respond.
First, I have heard some photographers criticize the photographers that are constantly running deals and "undercutting" the professionals while they try to break into the business. I must ask of those photographers...Were you not once there? Did you not also do cheap shoots saving for a new camera or lens? And if you just happened to have $2000 laying around for a Mark II, then lucky you!
Other photographers say that if you just "stand out" you will get business. They also suggest word-of-mouth and a good brand. Let me again say, THIS TAKES MONEY! Photographers who suggest this often seem to have a product or service backing them that they want you to buy to help your brand. A good business logo by a professional will cost upwards of $200 and that's just the logo. Add on the domain name ($13/month), web server ($40/month), web designer (In the 100s), professional blog ($200 and this is your main up-to-date portfolio tool) and you have a steep bill for a beginner. And that's not even counting professional equipment which can take you to the $5000 mark easily. If you were ever in this position, you know that it takes money, a lot of cheap shoots and time.
I think overall the biggest problem is the economy + client apathy equation. (This of course does not apply to the photographers who have been lucky enough to break in to the wedding market of the millionaires. I'm talking about the middle class photographers.) The market is now bombarded with trillions of photos every day. For wedding photographers, this is tricky because it makes it harder for clients to see the differences in quality. But, more importantly, the state of the economy was forced brides into the world of DIY! Why do you think so many DIY bridal blogs are doing so incredibly well? And DIY has trickled down to the photography department of weddings. This is why so often the cousin, uncle or friend gets the job of shooting a wedding instead of the true professional. Brides regret it later, but this is the state the their pocket book seems to force them into.
So, what do we do? Pros don't like the newbies that they once were. Newbies don't have the money that they need for pro equipment, so they undercut and hurt the some of the pros. Brides just want a good deal. To me, it's a vicious cycle and as one being caught in it (unfortunately), I don't have an answer.
*Comments welcome and appreciate*
