Back when I created my list of 20 Things in 2010, there were several major goals I omitted because I was afraid to share them. You see, I was afraid of failure…and afraid of everyone seeing me fail. So, a lot most of the things I put on my list are fairly achievable…though some are easier than others!
One of the major goals I left off my list was to become a member of the Wedding Photojournalist Association (WPJA), an organization comprised of the best wedding photojournalist photographers in the world. Membership depends on the approval of your portfolio meeting their high standards. Unlike a lot of photography associations, you can’t simply pay your way into it. And so, I was afraid my work wasn’t good enough…that I’d be denied membership if I applied. While I knew that I wanted to apply this year…I was afraid to share this goal with the world. So, I didn’t.
Well, three weeks ago I spent an entire day revamping my website and making sure my portfolio accurately reflected my work…and then I applied for the WPJA.
And then I waited…
And waited…(meanwhile, I was told it could take up to three weeks to hear a response…but if I wasn’t accepted, I wouldn’t hear any response).
And finally, on Friday morning, I’d resigned myself to the fact that I had not been accepted…that I’d just have to wait and try again later in the year.
And then I got an email. From the WPJA. They loved my portfolio and wanted to extend membership to me. YAY!!!!
So, I’m thrilled to announce that I am a proud member of the Wedding Photojournalist Association, and I’m as dedicated as ever to capturing the story of your wedding day. If you’re a bride or groom who’d love to know a little more about what a wedding photojournalist is, check out this page for brides and grooms. And for my photographer readers who are interested in membership, check out this page for photographers.
by mary
David Dunton - I am so glad — and also not surprised — that you were accepted. Congrats! Your admittance is well-deserved.
Nicole - Yippee! Doing the happy dance!
Heather - Totally not surprised in the least. I could of told you way back when you were shaking in your shoes that you were a shoo-in.
Congratulations!
Albert - Cool stuff. I love to brag about my awesome family all the time, and you’re definitely doing a great job at the photography thing. Keep it up Mary.
Nancy - Well, I wish I had a daughter who needed a wedding photographer!! Fortunately I have a super talented daughter-in-law who takes fantastic photos of OTHER PEOPLE’S daughters, and who took some great photos of my other precious daughter-in law. Just can’t fully express how proud I am of you.
Nancy Shaver - Yay for Mary! You deserve it!
Laura - Mary – Congrats! That’s AWESOME. They would have been beyond crazy not to accept you.
Mark Schwarz - Way to go Mary. While I was probably not the first to say you had “an eye” for photography I like to think of myself as one of your early supporters.
You continue to amaze me with you work and professionalism. I’m so happy that you have photography which allows you to draw upon you God given talent. But you didn’t stop there … you have built upon that with your hard work.
I’m so proud of you!
Vern - Yaaaay! I’m so excited for you. It’s funny you doubted yourself so much. It’s obvious to me that you have an amazing eye and that it is not learned talent but a natural talent you posses! I love your photography!
Christina Montemurro - Congratulations! Definitely something to be very proud of. But I am not at all surprised that they accepted you. Of course they did!
Lindsay Miller - Congratulations! Your work is beautiful, they’de be fools not to!
Sumer Schmitt - Congratulations Mary!! That’s awesome news! 🙂
marfa - Congratulations! So proud of you!
Emily Clark - Aww, congratulations! Well deserved!!
Milla - Wooohooo yay yay yay. So proud and happy for you, Mary. That is an AWESOME accomplishment.