The day I knew I wanted to be a photographer, I never could have imagined all of the pitfalls that would come with the job. Back then it was a growing art that many people were practicing, but there was still a definitive line between the pros and the amateurs. Now? Not so much.

Social media platforms have sky-rocketed over the past couple years. Photo sharing and editing have evolved with the development of photo-specific social media sites. With readily available tools, anyone with a decent point-and-shoot or an iPhone thinks they are a photographer. My only advice to these "pro-Instagramers" is that a filter can't fix your lack of trained skill. Stop trying to be something you're not.

With the rise in interest of photography, DSLR cameras have become more affordable and readily available to the public. To the users who brag about their "fancy camera," I beg you to read your manual and at least have the decency to know what DSLR stands for (digital single lens reflex, you're welcome). I cannot count the times I have heard generic terms thrown around to identify with a piece of equipment that sustains my career and requires attention and care.

Speaking of care, I beg you, wanna-be photographers, to read your manuals. I cringe every time I hear the clink of lens glass because someone has so carelessly thrown their camera over their shoulder without proper protection. Temperature insensitivity and rogue camera equipment floating around in purses or backpacks is every photographer's worst nightmare. Take care of your equipment or do not bother owning it.

I have to give some credit to those who put in effort. The Internet is a mass source of information in learning the camera settings, editing techniques, and general photographic knowledge. However, throwing out random terminology in an attempt to level yourself with a pro will always backfire. If you cannot tell me the difference between an f-stop and shutter speed, then you have a lot to learn about the trade of image creating.

My intentions are not to shame the wanna-be photographers, but to create an atmosphere of respect for professionals. I take my job very seriously. I have put in hours of research, trial and error projects, and hard work to get myself where I am today. I pursued higher education in the field of photography and continue to learn as I go. I put my everything into my work in order to ensure that my clients are happy.

Photography is a lot more than just seeing a pretty scene and snapping a shot. There is a science to creating stunning images that only those who put in the time and effort can perfect. So please: can we all stop trying to be photographers and respect the ones who truly are?