Why do associations and certifications matter? Because they demonstrate quality and a desire to improve. They also demonstrate an ability to present good work to a body of peers, who confirm a standard of knowledge, professionalism and excellence.
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Hiring a "Certified" and "Accredited" professional means that you don't have to take their word for it that they will do a great job for you!
In 2020, a new association was created for Ontario Wedding Vendors and Caralynn became one of the first members to join.
Caralynn has been a member of the Wedding and Portrait Professionals International since 2016 and became a Certified Photographer in 2017. They are an international forum of Professional photographers in a wide range of photographic disciplines.
Striving for excellence, Caralynn gained their first Accreditation with PPOC in 2019, making her an official member. To be accredited with the PPOC, a photographer has to demonstrate that they are capable of delivering above average quality photography. In assessing Accreditation Submissions, judges consider Impact, Creativity, Style, Composition, Presentation, Color Balance, Centre of Interest, Lighting, Subject Matter, Image file quality, Technique and Story Telling. And they don't go easy on you.
Caralynn received a Certificate of Graduation from The New York Institute of Photography for completion of the "Complete Course in Professional Photography" in 2013 - creating a strong foundation in all types of photography.
Caralynn has been flying a drone for some time now and holds a proper Canadian UAV (Drone) Pilot Certificate.
Of course the journey is a lifelong one. Before things became "official" as a full time photographer, Caralynn was involved with wedding photography and videography for many years. She even had a time when she was also the officiant! Now that it has become a side venture again, that passion and commitment continues.