What is CPS? Something to do with Canon?

[Ben_Rubinstein]

Actually now I think about it, I had put the name of my wedding photography business, I guess that's why they didn't ask further, I am a full time photographer.

Peter,

Not going to argue with you. I don't make the rules.

Here, send CPS an e-mail and ask for an application. You will see real fast that you are not going to get accepted based on what they need from you:

cpsloan@cusa.canon.com

I shoot advertising. At some point in the near future I will not be using CPS to try out lenses, since I will own all that I need. I can rent the rare bird for a job any time. Of course the loaner program is not for me to "get a lens so I can shoot a job" program anyway. I would guess the only thing left will be the "front of line" on a repair, if and when that becomes necessary. That's it for me. CPS is really not a "must have" in my view. But you seem to be implying that you are "entitled" to membership because you shoot with Canon cameras. Does this make sense, considering what the intent of CPS is??

[Peter_White]

Ken,

I'm not arguing, just having a conversation.

[LenRothman]

I am an advertising photographer, and have been for several decades. Earlier this year, I joined CPS, mailnly to get my 1Ds bodies and lenses calibrated, which was done very well, although the service was not the "3 days" for a variety of reasons, but it still worked out fine. They also lent me a lens to tide me over the extended repair time, which is not their policy, but they understood my dilemma. They also let me test drive a 24TS for a couple of weeks since I am considering that addition to my toolbox.

As a pro, I appreciate a little extra consideration. In return, I will buy more equipment and provide Canon with both income and add legitimacy to the Canon line as one the "pros" use. I am sure that there are amateurs that have more equipment than a lot of pros and, like Peter, use Canon's in their line of work. But I think the key difference is that we are dependent upon selling our images to make a living. True, the real estate broker needs a digital image of his houses, (or you, your bike parts) to help sell them, but the actual photos are not what provides your income. You sell bicycle parts, not pictures of bicycle parts.

I guess a good chunk of the camera owners in the world could claim some sort of indirect income from their cameras (insurance adjuster, salesmen, resort owners, private detectives etc.) but Canon has decided that a working pro will only get useful assistance and timely repairs from CPS if they draw the line at those who generate their main income from selling actual images to keep the line at the repair shop workable.

Probably most businesses have some method of treating the regular pros or frequent customers with a little extra service, such as the "Contractor's Window" at supply houses or the VIP lounges at airports. I try to treat all of my clients well, of course, but my biggest and most loyal clients will always get my most rapt attention.

I do recommend CPS to those who qualify. They will work with you to solve problems.

[BobMarkey]

In the U.S., CPS requires members to make a majority of their income from photography.

In the U.S., there is no equipment prerequisite, although applicants are asked what equipment they use and the types of shooting in which they engage.

In Canada, CPS members receive camera/equipment price discounts.

You can get the application forms from the e-mail address above or from me (I have no connection to Canon).

[Waleed_Alzuhair]

Canon Professional Services.. I'm registered, but my country is not covered by the service. I also believe the local Canon agent does not know what CPS is.. Heck, their showrooms still display the D30 as a supported model. [img]/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img]

Best of luck,
Waleed

[stevenmartin]

The Canadian price discount allows you to pay a little bit above US street price so don't get too excited 'y'all'.....