I often state that I’m an Award Winning Photographer on the website, Facebook and some marketing materials. I don’t do this to blow my own trumpet or for some form of ego trip! It’s simply reassurance for anyone that is considering using me for their family portraits, their wedding photography or for their commercial work.
At the end of 2013, I was delighted that my 1st year working for myself had seen me achieve 7 SWPP Highly Commended; 2 SWPP Gold Awards and to be one of just three photographers to be shortlisted for the SWPP ‘Maternity Photographer of the Year’.
The thing I enjoy about these competitions is they push me creatively. Working on my own, it would be very easy to fall in to a rut creating work that’s not particularly interesting so these competitions drive me to improve. I am extremely proud of the work produced at Made Portraits in all fields but the work has undoubtedly evolved faster due to these competitions and my desire to succeed in them.
At the beginning of 2014, I set myself the goal of beating my first years incredible achievement. The first step I took was to join the Guild of Photographers on top of staying with the SWPP. This gave me two separate Associations to have my work judged by so in theory, more opportunity to have success. I had no idea what an incredible year of achievements it would actually be though.
This year has seen me achieve 10 SWPP Highly Commended; 2 SWPP Gold Awards; an insane 44 Guild of Photographer Bronze Awards; 9 Guild of Photographer Silver Awards; 1 Guild of Photographers Gold Award; 1 National Photographic Society Highly Commended and I also achieved my Associate-ship with the SWPP.
I could never have predicted achieving a MASSIVE 67 Awards in 2014 and although I don’t think I will replicate or beat that next year, I am very competitive and I do like a challenge!
As I said, I don’t call myself an Award Winning Photographer to massage my ego. I simply want to assure you that there is no need to look anywhere other than Made Portraits for your photography requirements in 2015!
