Stick a ‘pro’ on it…

It always makes me smile when I see manufacturers add ‘pro’ to the name of their products. The only reason they do it is because there are still gullible people out there who actually believe this makes a difference.

I was reminded of this recently when ‘he who shall remain nameless’ from Facebook announced that someone had lent him a new lens, and that he felt he was now in a position to handle all sorts of different projects as a ‘photographer’

I asked him which lens and he replied « a professional telephoto » rather than giving me information on the focal length, or zoom range, which I was actually hoping for.

I have to say I’ve never actually seen a lens with ‘professional’ engraved on the barrel – unlike certain camera bodies which are ‘considered’ professional due to their features etc. lenses seem to be neutral – they just exist, some better than others, but all depending on the usage. I can only imagine that to him this means that he’ll be able to take ‘professional’ photos now (something sadly lacking from his repertoire…) I wish him luck.

In the unlikely event that this person ever reads my ramblings, please don’t take this as a criticism – just try to stop believing all the hype and get out there and practice your art.

Practice makes perfect, as they say.