What do you think is the difference between a professional photographer and any other hobby photographer?

Although both professional and hobby photographers can take equally good photos, the main difference between the two is a professional photographer makes money from their photos while a hobbyist does not. Of course, that’s simplifying it and just looking at things from the broadest perspective.

What constitutes a professional photographer?

A professional photographer is a photographer who earns 100\% of his income from photography. This is the definition required for entrance into the secret Nikon and Canon factory support organizations.

What’s between amateur and pro?

Amateurs focus on the short term. Professionals focus on the long term. Amateurs focus on tearing other people down. Professionals focus on making everyone better.

What is the value of a professional photographer?

The answer is pretty simple really. The value of a professional photographer is their necessity to run a profitable business. Let me be frank: if you can’t run a profitable business, then you are an amateur photographer, out there taking pictures for fun. That’s not to say that you have to be a full time working pro.

Is it possible to be a semi-professional photographer without a degree?

It is possible to be considered “semi-professional”, in that a portion of your income is earned from photography, while your primary profession is something else. Fundamentally, I don’t think formal education really has anything to do with being a professional or not.

What is the hallmark of a true professional photographer?

You could argue that the hallmark of a true professional photographer is the ability to deliver a great photograph anytime, anywhere. But again, there are a ton of pro’s who can’t…and a ton of amateurs who can.

How do I separate myself from a professional photographer?

One aspect that is particularly important for separating yourself as a professional photographer is the way you handle new client inquiries. Have a comprehensive process in place, such as a form or worksheet, that helps your client thoroughly and efficiently present the scope of work they have in mind.