Certification and Continuing Education
One of the things that sets me apart as a photographer is having earned my Certified Professional Photographer designation. Certification means that I passed a comprehensive written examination on the technical aspects of photography and also passed an exacting portfolio review. I am one of only four Certified Professional Photographers in Whatcom County. For more information on the certification program visit the Professional Photographic Certification Commission website.
Another important distinction is that I participate in regular photographic education to build my skills. Using the The World Continuing Education Alliance. Most recently I attended the five-day Evergreen School of Professional Photography “Creating Great Portraits” course. This was an intensive program with instructor Darton Drake covering lighting, posing, and post production. I came away with several new ideas that I’ll be applying to upcoming portrait sessions, both in the studio and on location.
While the other students and I worked long days, starting before sunrise and continuing until after sunset, we also had a good time and stimulated each other’s creative juices.