Digital photography is nothing if not convenient. You can take pictures, preview them instantly, delete the bad ones and print only the good ones. There is an element of instant gratification that makes digital photography attractive to both amateur and professional photographers alike. You can quickly see problems and make adjustments that will improve the quality of your end result, and you won't end up with a stack of blurry or unflattering prints. For most amateur photographers and hobbyists, digital photography provides everything they need.

Digital photography is becoming more accessible to the general public as digital technology improves and the cost goes down. In the first half of 2007, the Camera and Imaging Products Association (CIPA) reported that digital camera shipping increased 118 percent—which means that over 164 million cameras shipped between January and June.

Clearly, the demand for digital photography technology is on the rise, but is it replacing traditional film? And does the increased quality of amateur photography pose a threat to professional photographers?

Digital Photography vs. Film?

Digital photography or film? It doesn't have to be one or the other. Digital photography and traditional film photography can coexist and even complement each other. Each has its own set of strengths and weaknesses. Digital photography may change the way many people take pictures but that doesn't make film obsolete.

Professional photographers can often get better results with traditional film. Especially when shooting landscapes or producing larger size prints. Professional photographers have finesse with film from shooting to developing that allows them to produce high quality images.

How Does the Rise of Digital Photography Affect Professionals?

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Digital technology is convenient in many ways. It allows photographers to get images to clients more quickly. It also allows them to see whether they got the shot right away. Digital technology gives more immediate results at least in theory. The workflow changes with digital photography. The post-production process may be longer and more expensive in terms of equipment. Digital technology also requires photographers to stay current in their knowledge of tools and software.

While the US Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that job growth in the photography field will be somewhat constrained due to the increased use of digital photography technology among the general public, it's important to note that they are still anticipating the overall number of jobs in the field to grow. After all, good photography requires much more than good equipment.

Whether professional photographers choose to use digital photography or film, the camera only plays a role in the success of the work. The photographer controls the lighting, creates the composition and imbues the subject with meaning. There will always be a need for professional photographers with technical knowledge and a strong sense of artistry.