How to Distinguish Between a Professional Bundaberg Photographer and an Amateur Photographer

Whether you're looking to hire a photographer for a Bundaberg event or simply curious about the skills of those behind the lens, distinguishing between a professional and an amateur photographer can be a valuable skill. Here's a quick guide to help you identify the key differences and why John Wilson Media should be your go to selection for Bundaberg photography services:

 FOR PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY IN BUNDABERG and DISTRICTS SPEAK TO JOHN : TEL - 0419 716 107 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

or vist this page: Bundaberg Professional Photographers

1. Portfolio Assessment:

Professional: Does the photography support the experience claims?  A seasoned photographer will have a well-curated portfolio showcasing a diverse range of work and services they offer. Look for consistency in quality, style, and composition across various projects. Read about JOHN WILSOM MEDIA Biography HERE.

Amateur: An amateur may have a more limited portfolio, often with less diversity and possibly a less refined technique. Inconsistencies in style and quality might be more apparent.

2. Technical Proficiency:

Professional: Technical skills are a hallmark of a professional photographer. They'll demonstrate mastery in handling different camera settings, lighting conditions, and post-processing techniques and different photography situations in dealing with groups and locations etc. Incidentally John Wilson Media has 30 years of professional photography experience, nationally and internationally in commercial photography , editorial photography, photojournalism and documentary photography.

Amateur: An amateur photographer may show enthusiasm, but their technical skills might not be as polished. Look for signs of overexposure, underexposure, or inconsistent focus in their work.

3. Understanding of Lighting:

Professional: Professionals have a keen understanding of lighting and can effectively use natural and artificial light to enhance their images. Look for well-lit and properly exposed photographs. At John Wilson Media we have many thousands of hours photography experience working with both available light and studio lighting or combinations of both, experience you don’t get from a book!!

Amateur: Amateurs may struggle with lighting, resulting in images that are either too bright, too dark, or have harsh shadows. Lack of control over lighting nuances is a common indicator.

4. Composition and Creativity:

Professional: Professionals excel in composition, framing, and creativity. Their photographs tell a story and evoke emotions, showcasing a deeper understanding of visual storytelling. John Wilson of John Wilson Media is an acclaimed international photographer, photojournalist, documentary photographer and cameraman, story telling through the lens runs in his blood!!

Amateur: Amateurs may focus more on capturing the moment without the same level of attention to composition. Look for photos that lack a clear focal point or a cohesive narrative.

5. Equipment and Accessories:

Professional: Pros invest in high-quality camera gear, lenses, and accessories. The gear they use is often top-tier and well-maintained. At John Wilson Media we use the best camera equipment to suit our services making use of Nikon and Sony professional cameras and lenses, professional lighting and audio for our video work.

Amateur: Amateurs might use entry-level equipment, and their gear may not be as well-suited to various shooting conditions. This could impact the overall image quality.

6. Business Insurance:

Professional: A reputable professional will have insurance to cover not only their equipment but also any damages they may be responsible for during a shoot. The extent of this coverage will vary from photographer to photographer and insurance policy.

Amatuer: Amateurs and part time semi professional photographers generally dont have insurance. They are usually operating very cheaply to get work and are unable to afford insurance coverage. This is the risk the client takes with uninsured photographers.

7. Work Place and Safety Inductions:

Professional: Some industries such as mining, energy, construction have industry wide induction tickets required by all who conduct work at their facilities and work spaces. Professional photographer will have completed the induction processes required and have the relative tickets.

Amateurs: Amateurs will not have these tickets.

8. Client Reviews and Testimonials:

Professional: Check for client reviews and testimonials. Professionals often have a track record of satisfied clients who can attest to their reliability and the quality of their work. Also check for testimonials from people who can be verified and with credibility. See some of John Wilson Media testimonials HERE

Amateur: Amateurs may have fewer reviews or testimonials, and the feedback may be more variable.

By keeping these factors in mind, you'll be better equipped to discern the expertise and skill level of a photographer, helping you make informed decisions when seeking professional services or admiring the work of aspiring talents.

Bundaberg Photography

READ MORE ABOUT OUR PROFESSIONAL BUNDABERG PHOTOGRAPHY SERVICES HERE