Professional?

[Decran]

Hi,

Is there a defining point that moves an amature to a semi pro and the on to a pro? I would expect that depending on everyones experiences and outlooks, this could be quite subjective.

[chalkie7]

This is a subject that does indeed divide opinion somewhat!

My take on this:-

amateur - hobbyist (serious or not) who does not charge for their work
semi-pro - does charge for at least some work, but Photography not their main income
professional - charges for all their work, Photography being their main source of income.

The above definitions do not reflect the actual standard of the Photographer (or rather his work) in anyway! I have seen some absolutely stunning portraiture work from a so-called Amateur that runs rings around most peoples work, but he refuses to charge, as he does it purely because it's what he loves. Similarly, there are many 'Professionals' out there who are absolutely awful!

[wulf]

The simplest definition is based on whether or not you get paid for your work:

Amateur: shoots for free (just for the love of it)

Semi-pro: Sometimes gets paid but not enough to live on so also has another job

Pro: Makes a living through photography

However, the terms can also be used to refer to the scale between a bumbling incompetent and someone who always gets great shots with a minimum of fuss.

Wulf

[FrankLamont]

There is an amateur and an enthusiast amateur, but a semi-pro?

No, there is no such thing, though it sort of exists as some imaginary level.

A pro earns money, something-not-a-pro doesn't.

[wulf]

Semi-pro is a recognised designation for someone who earns part of their income based on their skill and expertise at a pursuit. None of the titles, when applied in economic terms, give any indication of the actual skill of the practioner.

Wulf

[chalkie7]

yep....as the Wulf-man said!

[zappo]

Originally Posted by wulf

The simplest definition is based on whether or not you get paid for your work:

Amateur: shoots for free (just for the love of it)

Semi-pro: Sometimes gets paid but not enough to live on so also has another job

Pro: Makes a living through photography

However, the terms can also be used to refer to the scale between a bumbling incompetent and someone who always gets great shots with a minimum of fuss.

Wulf

I would agree to that. All other names like "enthusiast amateur" are only marketing buzz someone invented to sell a specific camera (Is there actually someone around who is not enthusiastic about their work? Hands up please.)

[Decran]

I thought this would show some difference of opinions. I do sell some pictures but also class myself as an amature. I am aways asked of my status when on a shoot and have been reluctant to upstage myself, hence the question.

Thanks

[daft_biker]

Originally Posted by FriedChicken

There is an amateur and an enthusiast amateur, but a semi-pro?

No, there is no such thing, though it sort of exists as some imaginary level.

A pro earns money, something-not-a-pro doesn't.

That's how I look at it. An occasional pro maybe rather than semi-pro. What use is a semi?

[daft_biker]

Originally Posted by Decran

I thought this would show some difference of opinions. I do sell some pictures but also class myself as an amature. I am aways asked of my status when on a shoot and have been reluctant to upstage myself, hence the question.

Thanks

I'm proud to be an amatuer. I take pictures because I enjoy it.....if somebody wants to pay me to do it every now and again that's their problem