BUCKHANNON, W.Va. — Renée Preston of Renée Preston Photography has earned the Certified Professional Photographer designation from Professional Photographers of America.

Preston earned this designation after completing an intensive program that measures her artistic and technical competence. Professional Photographers of America currently recognizes fewer than 2,500 CPPs, with less than 25 of those in West Virginia.

“Although I have been in the photography business nearly 20 years, I felt earning my CPP would instill additional confidence in my photographic abilities to my clients and to myself,” Preston said. “I spent many hours prepping for the exam, and learned things I didn’t know, and have applied that knowledge to my subsequent work, and can already see advancement in the quality of my work. Earning the CPP designation was a personal goal for many years, and last fall, I finally set aside the time to work towards that goal. I wanted to demonstrate my commitment to my craft, and set myself apart as a CPP.”

Professional Photographers of America is the leading body for certifying imaging professionals. CPPs must complete a written examination, finish an image evaluation, and adhere to a strict code of conduct. Certification must be renewed every three years, either by testing or earned continuing education credits, ensuring continued confidence in the professionalism of Certified Professional Photographers.

While Preston offers all types of photography, high school seniors are her specialty. Her studio is located in the Buckhannon Arts District in Trader’s Alley, adjacent to 3/4 Café.

For more information on certification, visit PPA.COM/CPP. Visit reneeprestonphotography.com to view samples of her work or to book with Renée Preston, CPP.