When To Use An Amateur Photog

Getting started in Photography in Utah can be rough. I think I heard once that we have the most photographers of any state (but don't quote me on that.) Everyone and their dogs has a photography business these days! It can be hard to sift through the incredible, experienced photographers who often cost a fortune, all the way down to the newbies who show up at your wedding with their iPhone a-ready.
Odds are, once you've chosen a photographer, it's for one of three reasons:

1- You've looked through their work, liked what you saw, and want the sort of pictures they generally produce.
2- They were the cheapest you could find, and cheap gets the job done.
3- You know them personally, you know they do photography, so you use them regardless of price or experience.

Now as a Photographer I wholly believe in Community over Competition. I try my hardest never to put down a new photographer, just because I know how devastating it is when someone who is better than you (and there is always someone better) bashes your work. How would the newbies ever get experience if no one ever gave them a chance? But as a client, I think it's important to know when and where you should use an amateur photographer.

DO use an Amateur Photographer:
-When they are offering a good deal to build their portfolio
-If you've seen some of their previous work (and it's decent)
-To practice for an upcoming session with a professional. (Want to make sure your outfits look as good as you think? Do you want to try some different poses and see what you like best in the finished product?)
-As a second shooter for a large event like a wedding (if approved by your current photographer.)
-To help out someone you know that is looking to get into photography

DO NOT use an Amateur Photographer:
-For a newborn session
-For a birth story
-For a first-look session
-For a wedding
-For any photoshoot that couldn't be taken again if the pictures don't turn out.
-If they are charging absurd amounts that don't seem to match their work

I support and am happy to help any up and coming photographer, but the fact is you take on a personal risk when allowing an inexperienced photographer to take photos for you that can't be replaced. I can't tell you how many people I see who first refuse to use a professional because of the price, and then end up using them later because their newborn pictures were never returned to them, or their wedding pictures were so dark you couldn't see anyone's faces.
I've been there. I've been that photographer not taking the highest quality photos for people, because as prepared as they might feel, it's hard! It's a hobby that takes a lot of time and practice to learn, and you don't want to find out in your dimly lit reception hall that they have no clue how to shoot in low lighting conditions. 
But, when you can, it is always great to help a new photographer fine tune their craft and build their business! Ultimately, you should always do your homework first.