The question has been raised earlier this week as to classifying a photographer as pro, amateur, sub-amateur, etc. As I was called out in said post, I felt compelled to respond in kind. Yes, I know I haven't finished the posts from the wedding or El Salvador. Chill, I have one final left before Christmas break, then I'll get rolling again.
What is a "Pro" photographer? What is an "Amateur" photographer? Perhaps we might even have to start more basic than that with what is a "photograph"? This is a question I often pose my customers looking at SLR cameras when I'm actually supposed to just be selling them a camera. In my mind, there is a significant difference between a "snapshot" and a "photograph". To me, a photograph indicates a conscious effort to analyze the composition of the photograph, be aware of elements in the background that may be distracting, get the focus correct, and last but not least, expose the picture correctly. When you take these elements into account, you begin creating art instead of letting the camera capture what it may. At this point you are taking control of the camera and light and manipulating how you see and capture them to create a desired image. Now, this is not to say you must know how a given picture is going to turn out after you press that little button, but it generally helps to have some idea, even if it's an idea of how to do trial-and-error adjustments for the shot you're about to do.
Now, given that definition, what is a photographer? I believe a photographer is someone who continually strives to better the photographs he or she creates. Whether it is through shooting, or reading, or observing another photographer, you are trying to create the most accurate representation of your idea possible. Ask any photographer if they have ever created the perfect picture. Unless they are extremely arrogant or extremely naïve, they will probably say no. But that does not mean there are not excellent photographs out there. What would be the point of doing something if you could never do it well?
Now the designation of a professional vs amateur is also very vague. A professional has a rather strict definition when it comes to careers, including mainly doctors, lawyers and military officers. But in a field such as golf, you become a professional as soon as you get paid to play. One of the greatest golfers who ever played, Robert Trent (Bobby) Jones, was an amateur his entire career. There is also a great deal of difference in skill between professional golfers on local circuits and Tiger Woods, Ernie Els and Arnold Palmer. People insist on assigning labels to things that are completely unrelated to what they are trying to judge. People often ask me at work if I am a professional photographer. I respond that I love taking photographs, I love studying and learning about photography, and I am available for hire for portraits, weddings and other events. I don't compare myself to Ansel Adams or Annie Leibovitz. Here is my card with my website at the bottom if you would like to take a look at my portfolio and judge for yourself whether you would consider me a professional.
Questions, comments, concerns? I know I haven't totally covered this topic and my explanation has been somewhat haphazard, but alas I am not getting paid to write this, nor am I getting a grade. I would still love to know what you think, but until then, I need to get some sleep so I can head back to Gainesville tomorrow to work and study.
-Z
