Review of your images by a professional photographer - helpful or not?

[lwan]

I think they can prove very helpful and I don't have much to add to the great advice about. The only thing is to reenforce the idea of picking the right pro - I'd only take advice from someone who's work I admire.

Well yes and no!
From my experience there are 3 kinds of pros:
- the anonymous local pro, who will always have something negative to say, no matter what
- the famous pro, who look at you like some kind of oddity using gear too expensive for him and basically doesn't care
- the "steve perry" who is compassionate and enthusiast (at least that's how i feel about you) about hobbyists wildlife photographers trying hard to get good shots

Most of the time i come accross #1

 

[Turberticus]

Well yes and no!
From my experience there are 3 kinds of pros:
- the anonymous local pro, who will always have something negative to say, no matter what
- the famous pro, who look at you like some kind of oddity using gear too expensive for him and basically doesn't care
- the "steve perry" who is compassionate and enthusiast (at least that's how i feel about you) about hobbyists wildlife photographers trying hard to get good shots

Most of the time i come accross #1

I've been working with somebody I'd classify as #3 - Ray Hennessy. He's reviewed 16 of my photos so far where he loads them up in Lightroom and/or Photoshop and shows you what he'd change/improve, and how to make those changes. He gives very good constructive criticism balanced with praise and encouragement. I've learned quite a few things along the way and I'm incorporating those in my workflow and out in the field. He really loves what he does and I've admired his work for quite some time.