How to Be Certified Professional Photographer (CPP) - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Jul 30, 2022 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The Certified Professional Photographer (CPP) designation is an important achievement for those within the world of photography. Obtaining this certification demonstrates mastery of both the technical and artistic aspects of the craft. Individuals who have earned their CPP can benefit from increased recognition from their peers, more job opportunities, and higher pay.

they also have access to exclusive resources and networking opportunities that can help them grow their business and further their career. With a CPP designation, photographers are able to distinguish themselves from the competition and provide their clients with superior products and services.

Steps How to Become

Start by familiarizing yourself with the Professional Photographers of America (PPA) and the Certified Professional Photographer (CPP) program. Research the CPP program requirements, program benefits, and cost.
Join PPA as a full member. You must be a current PPA member to become a Certified Professional Photographer.
Complete the required education and experience. You must have a minimum of two years experience as a professional photographer, as well as complete an approved CPP program of at least three qualifying courses.
Take the CPP Exam. The exam consists of two parts. a written exam and an image evaluation exam. Both must be passed with a minimum score of 80%.
Submit your application and fees. Once youve passed both parts of the exam, you must submit your application and fees to PPA to become certified.
Maintain your certification. To remain certified, you must renew your certification every three years by completing continuing education and re-taking the CPP Exam, if necessary.

Continuing education and professional development are essential for any Certified Professional Photographer (CPP) to remain knowledgeable and up-to-date in the field. Staying informed of industry trends, technological advancements, and the latest equipment can help photographers stay ahead of the competition and ensure they are delivering high-quality work to their clients. attending conferences and workshops will allow a CPP to network with other professionals in the industry, learn from experts, and gain valuable insight into the latest best practices.

Lastly, keeping up with industry news and participating in discussions on social media can help a CPP stay abreast of the ever-changing industry. By staying informed and actively engaging with their peers, a CPP can ensure they remain capable and current in their field.

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Job Description

Create and produce high-quality photography for commercial clients
Manage a photography studio, creating a welcoming atmosphere and managing the day-to-day operations
Develop creative strategies to capture and edit photos
Consult with clients to determine their photography needs and create a plan to meet them
Use a variety of cameras, lenses, and lighting equipment to capture desired images
Manipulate images using digital editing software to enhance the quality and appearance of photos
Maintain and organize a digital portfolio of client images
Ensure images meet professional standards for quality and accuracy
Provide direction and guidance to assistants, models, and other personnel involved in a shoot
Negotiate pricing and payment terms with clients

Skills and Competencies to Have

Understand and demonstrate professional standards of ethics and technical competence.
Understand and apply the fundamentals of photographic lighting, posing, composition, digital capture, image processing and output.
Understand and apply the fundamentals of digital imaging workflow.
Demonstrate a working knowledge of digital cameras and lenses, including operating principles and characteristics.
Demonstrate an understanding of the history of photography.
Demonstrate an understanding of the business of professional photography.
Demonstrate an understanding of copyright and licensing laws.
Demonstrate an understanding of marketing and sales principles for professional photography services.
Demonstrate the ability to work with clients in a professional manner.
Demonstrate the ability to deliver a professional product to the client.

Being a Certified Professional Photographer (CPP) requires a high level of skill and dedication to the craft. It requires an extensive knowledge of digital photography, lighting, and editing software. Having the CPP designation is a mark of excellence that demonstrates a deep understanding of the technical and creative aspects of photography.

This knowledge can be applied to any type of photography, from portraiture to landscape, documentary to fashion. A CPP has a broad range of skills that can make them a valuable asset to any creative team. With their expertise and commitment to quality, they can create stunning images that capture the essence of a subject or scene.

This skill set can help a photographer stand out from the competition and land higher paying jobs.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What inspired you to pursue a certification as a Certified Professional Photographer (CPP)?
What experience do you have in the photography field?
Do you have any experience or background in digital or film photography?
How do you go about researching new technologies in the photography industry?
What methods do you use to ensure your images are of the highest quality?
How do you handle difficult lighting conditions when on a shoot?
What strategies do you use to ensure customer satisfaction when taking on a project?
How do you create an efficient workflow when on a job?
What challenges have you faced when working with clients and how did you address them?
How do you stay current and competitive in the photography industry?

Common Tools in Industry

Camera. A device used to capture images, such as a DSLR camera (eg: Canon EOS 5D Mark IV).
Lenses. Various lenses used to compose and capture different shots (eg: Tamron SP 24-70mm f/2. 8 Di VC USD).
Tripod. A three-legged stand used to stabilize a camera for long exposures or for macro photography (eg: Manfrotto MT190XPRO3).
Lighting Equipment. A variety of devices used to provide additional lighting, ranging from softboxes and umbrellas to strobes and ring lights (eg: Godox AD400Pro TTL Outdoor Flash).
Editing Software. Programs used to edit and enhance images, including Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom (eg: Adobe Photoshop CC).
Color Calibrator. A device used to calibrate a monitor to ensure accurate color reproduction (eg: X-Rite ColorMunki Display).
Printers. Devices used to print photographs in various sizes, including large-format printers (eg: Canon Pro-1000).

Professional Organizations to Know

Professional Photographers of America (PPA)
American Society of Media Photographers (ASMP)
Wedding and Portrait Photographers International (WPPI)
National Association of Photoshop Professionals (NAPP)
American Society of Picture Professionals (ASPP)
British Institute of Professional Photography (BIPP)
Australian Institute of Professional Photography (AIPP)
Professional Photographers of Canada (PPOC)
Professional Photographers of Europe (PPE)
Society of Wedding and Portrait Photographers (SWPP)

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Common Important Terms

Professional Photographers of America (PPA). A non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the art, science and business of professional photography. It provides resources and education for photographers, as well as certifications.
Lighting. Techniques used to create a desired effect in a photograph, such as high-key, low-key, or creative lighting.
Composition. The placement of objects within the frame of an image to create a visually appealing photograph.
Digital Editing. Manipulation of digital images using software such as Photoshop or Lightroom.
Color Theory. The use of color to create a desired effect in a photograph.
Digital Photography. The use of digital cameras and technology to capture images.
Image Capturing. The process of recording an image onto a digital medium.
Image Enhancement. The use of digital editing tools to improve the quality and look of an image.
Photography Business. The business of selling and marketing photography services.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is a Certified Professional Photographer (CPP)? A1: A Certified Professional Photographer (CPP) is a photographer who has met the standards of professional excellence set by the Professional Photographers of America (PPA). To become CPP certified, photographers must demonstrate technical competence by passing an examination and have a certain amount of experience and education. Q2: What are the benefits of becoming a Certified Professional Photographer (CPP)? A2: Becoming a CPP gives photographers increased credibility and recognition in the industry. It also provides opportunities for networking and improved marketing, as CPPs can use the CPP logo on their website, business cards, and promotional materials. Q3: What is required to become a Certified Professional Photographer? A3: To become a CPP, photographers must complete an application, submit a portfolio of images, pass an exam, and have at least three years of professional photographic experience. Q4: How much does it cost to become a Certified Professional Photographer? A4: The cost to become a CPP is $200 for PPA members and $300 for non-members. This fee covers the cost of the exam, processing the application, and providing the CPP certification. Q5: How long does it take to become a Certified Professional Photographer? A5: The process of becoming a CPP typically takes around four to six months from start to finish. This includes completing the application, passing the exam, and having your portfolio reviewed by PPA.