So I finally got my act together after years of dragging my feet and joined the Australian Institute of Professional Photographers (AIPP).

To join take more than paying a fee and getting entry. You need to prove you have been working as a professional for 2+ years with references and also have your portfolio reviewed by industry peers.

I am pleased to say that I match all criteria as was accepted into the fold.

You can read up about what is required to join at the AIPP website.

So what does this mean for Joffre St? Overall not a big change, just a logo being used here and there plus more coordinated professional development (which I love anyway). Being a member also gives me the ability to submit to the state and national competitions, which us something I plan to purse starting this April and August.

In February I sent two days watching and learning from the Victorian state awards. It was amazing seeing the depth and breath of work from the industry and meeting some of the best in industry. I am excited to enter the awards for the first time to see if I measure up against others within the industry and giving myself a benchmark for future improvement.