Camera Labs

Hi folks,

dPhotoexpert reports that the July/August edition of Master Photo Digital Magazine is available to read here.

Looks like this might be a regular read as the June edition is available here and several previous editions have also been uploaded as you can see from this library page.

As they are kind enough to make the magazine available to a wider audience maybe it's also appropriate to give the MPA a plug. From their website:

The Master Photographers Association is the UK's only organisation exclusively for full-time professional wedding, portrait and commercial photographers. Members qualify at one of three levels: Licentiate, Associateship and Fellowship (the highest).

Note that (from their "How to join" page)

Entry requirements are strictly monitored and it will be necessary to supply two references upon application.

From their Qualification Grades page:

Licentiate (LMPA)

Indicates the award of qualified member of the Association. Applicants must show competence in their chosen field of photography, show a thorough understanding of camera techniques, lighting and composition and ability to create merchantable quality photography.

Associate (AMPA)

Is awarded upon the submission of photographic work and in recognition that the photographer has shown excellence in technique, lighting and composition. The candidate must show creativity and an understanding in the art of professional photography.

Fellow (FMPA)

Is awarded as the highest qualification within the Association. The award is made for excellence in photographic technique and interpretation. The photographer having exhibited an individual, innovative, artistic and creative style in their submission demonstrating that they are at the leading edge in the art of photography.

Well, that rules me out then.

But for those of you who are keen to join but don't yet satisfly the above criteria there's an affiliate membership:

Affiliate Membership

Affiliate members are photographers who are not yet full time, or otherwise eligible for MPA membership, who have three years maximum of Affiliate membership during which time they may be able to learn from MPA in preparation for a full time career.

I see they quote a cost of "just 36p per day" for normal membership (not sure about affiliate membership). I hope this is of use for aspiring professionals here in the UK.

Bob.

P.S. I've no connection with them so please form your own views about whether this is a useful organisation to join or whether the British Institute of Professional Photographers is a more appropriate way to float your boat.

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OM-D E-M5 + ED 12-50mm, H-PS14042E, H-F007014E, L-RS014150E, M.ZUIKO DIGITAL 45mm 1:1.8.
Gitzo GT1541T, Arca-Swiss Z1 DP ball-head.
Astrophotography: TEC 140 'scope, FLI ML16803 camera, ASA DDM60 Pro mount.