The Journey

The first time I saw the Master Photographer and Photographic Craftsman medallions hanging around someone's neck, I knew this was something I wanted to work for. I did it all backwards. The typical order for degrees and certifications is CPP, Craftsman, and then Masters. I did mine in the reverse order!  It doesn't matter which order you do them in; making the journey is well worth the effort. All of the degrees and certification take a lot of hard work. I don't think I will ever forget my very first merit image and thinking that I was on my way. With each District and IPC competition, my work improved by leaps and bounds. My confidence also increased by leaps and bounds. I wanted to set my own personal goal of getting my Master's Degree with images that started as client work. I did it! The day that I walked across the stage at Imaging USA to have the Master's medallion placed around my neck is another time in my life I will not forget.

When you look around at photographic events or at Imaging USA, you see how few people are Master photographers. It truly is an honor to be recognized by your peers for your accomplishments. And my clients recognize it, too. They may not know what a Master Photographer is, but they see the work that I submit to competitions and know that the photographer they are hiring has some mad skills to do the job!

It is an incredible journey, and the best part is you will have everyone who came before you cheering you on!

~Margaret Bryant

"Traveling throughout Texas and other states while sharing my knowledge of photographing children, families, and how to run a business was challenging. It made me not only a better photographer but also a better communicator. The process of earning this degree provided a learning experience both artistically and in the business aspect of photography. I felt a great sense of pride and accomplishment when I earned the Photographic Craftsman Degree in 1986!"

~Gail Nogle