How to know if your photography is rising to that pro level?

Ooh! You have a phone with a camera, a subject before you, and the will to capture it. You take that stance, click the capture button, and view it back. You feel good about it. Sometimes confused. But one thing you surely feel is that you have captured something. Your pictures somehow give you hope of reaching an exhibition. But, are they really good? As a photographer, it can be tough to gauge when you're starting to level up your skills. Sure, your friends and family might say your photos are great – “These are some beauties you’ve clicked now.” But, are you really making strides toward becoming a professional? Trust me, this confusion is not only bewildering but obstructive too. So, how to come out of this bog? How to know if you’ve really captured something meaningful or just another trivial picture?

Everyone is a photographer now

It might seem a bit condescending, but it is the truth. With phones in each hand, each brain stands tall as a photographer. Everyone is a photographer these days. It's easy to take a decent photo with minimal effort. But, that pro level? This is some serious business. And when I say business, I mean it.

It is very easy to get caught up in the fog of self-acclamation. You keep taking picture after picture for year and year, but none grabs the mass. What to do? How to deal? How to differentiate yourself from the masses and know when your photography is really starting to take off? Here are a few signs to look for:

• • You're consistently producing high-quality work: It's not just about taking a great photo once in a while - it's about producing high-quality work on a consistent basis. Anyone can click a great picture at one point in time. But the magician gets defined by being a magician all the time. Are you proud of the majority of the photos you take? Are people consistently impressed with your work? It is not about getting validation but taking hints. After all, it is going to be the world that will feel one with the soul of your pictures.
• • You're getting bucks for your pics: While getting paid doesn't necessarily equate to skill level, it's a good sign that people value your work enough to pay for it. It also means you're building a portfolio of paid work. This can help you attract more clients in the future. But don’t get disheartened if your pictures are still limited to your laptop. If your pixels have that spark in them, people will get pulled to buy those.
• • Investing in your craft is your life now: As you grow as a photographer, you'll realize that investing in your cameras & photo accessories, equipment, and education is essential. But realizing this doesn’t guarantee that you invest. Some people do not spend even a buck on their passion and profession. Are you willing to invest in better gear? Do you want to take classes to improve your skills? If so, you're on the right path. This resembles progress.
• • A novel style is taking shape in you: Every artist is known by a distinct style. Tagore sprouts spirituality; Virginia lets you dive into thoughts; Gogh is all about expression. Finding your own unique style is crucial in setting yourself apart from other photographers. When you grow, your branches take their own paths. Are people able to recognize your work without being told it's yours? Do you have a consistent aesthetic across your portfolio? If yes, these are some good signs.
• • Feedback and constant improvement are fueling you: A true professional is never satisfied with their work. They always keep seeking feedback to improve. What about you? If you too embrace feedback, it means you are up for something serious. Just don’t get caught up in self-criticism. Be wild. Be free.

So, how many of these signs do you capture inside you? If photography is something that invigorates you, give your all to it. Buy quality equipment from sites like eBay. Push yourself. Be flexible. And one day you’ll see that the throne is all yours.