Images meet tough criteria
Putaruru photographer Claire Birks is enjoying sweet success after passing her New Zealand Institute of Professional Photography portrait qualifications following a rigorous application process.
‘‘After a big push from a family friend to start entering photography competitions and doing really well in them, I decided that it was time to see where I was placed in the industry. Could I call myself a professional photographer or not?’’
The institute’s qualification programme establishes a standard in members’ businesses and identifies members as photographers who have attained a credible quality standard.
‘‘ I have been working towards (this) for some time. It takes a long time to gain the necessary skills to consistently produce photography that is of the very high standard to meet NZIPP’s requirements for a professional. The portfolio I submitted was made up of recent work, as obviously photographers keep on improving and developing their style over time, and I felt my more recent work was a fair reflection of my style and ability.’’
She spent one month sifting through photographs to submit.
‘‘ It was a great process to go through, learning a lot about yourself and style. My friends and family were tormented by me asking them to check photos constantly.’’
A portfolio of 12 photographs were submitted in her portfolio.
‘‘While that might sound like a piece of cake, in fact it was very difficult. Every image not only had to be technically perfect (there are a lot of general photographic rules that must be met) but they also had to show correct use of light, creative flair, engagement et cetera. The print quality and presentation was also judged as they are part of what is given to clients and therefore important to help determine that the work is of professional quality.’’