QFR: How did you know when you were ready?

Melissa asks:

This may be a silly question, but how did you know you were ready? Were there specific skills you worked on before applying? Are there specific training materials? Thank you

NOTE: This question was in response to the article  “Set a Goal: Become Certified.”

1. There is no such thing as a silly question. Feel free to ask whatever you want.

2. If you wait until you think you are ready, you will never do it. I didn’t KNOW I was ready. I just set the goal and dove in. I researched where and when the exam would be held and the next one available was in April in Pennsylvania. I drove 7 hours one way and stayed overnight in a hotel. The next test after that was not going to be held for another 6 months, so I knew I had to take the exam in April.

Don’t get scared by this – there have been massive improvements in the program and now tests are offered more often in more local areas. I devised a study schedule and studied 1 chapter each week. I drilled myself with home-made flash cards and constantly reviewed my notes. I knew I did not want to repeat this extensive preparation and travel again, so I was determined to pass on the first try. Luckily, I’ve always been a good student when I put my mind to it, so it worked out.

3. I took my online lighting course before I tried to pass the image submission. I also hooked up with a lovely mentor named Barbi who had achieved the CPP designation and agreed to mentor me. She made me put on my big girl panties and she told me exactly what was wrong with my photos. She told me what skills I needed to improve in and if my cropping and retouching was not up to par. Again, I was fortunate enough to pass on the first try.

Aside from the professional certification test for the Certified Quality Auditor designation through the American Society for Quality, this was THE hardest process I’ve ever been through.

But I would not be where I am now if I had not done it. My skill level took a tremendous leap upward by going through this process. I learned to separate myself emotionally from my work and look at it with a more unbiased eye. No longer was my work “GOOD ENOUGH.”

4. The book that is recommended for study is Photography by Upton & London. You can get it from Amazon – here is a handy link:

And yes, this books is major $$.  It is the book most often used as a college textbook for introductory photography classes. If you hang out of any forums, you may be able to get a used copy cheaper. Also check eBay.

You’re welcome, Melissa. 🙂