Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 1998/11/26

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Subject: Re: [Leica] Amateur vs. Pro
From: n.b.watson@juno.com (Nigel B Watson)
Date: Thu, 26 Nov 1998 16:45:00 EST

Perhaps  it is because I've been around the sports world for so long, but
the designation "amateur" photographer, whenever I use it,  is a
reference purely to the individual's income derivation, not his level of
experience or quality of work.   In many instances an amateur athlete is
regarded with higher regard than a pro; witness those who compete in the
Olympics.

Earning a living at photography necessitates choices regarding technique
and equipment based on the commercial saleability of images.  Depending
upon the market, that can be a very frustrating obstacle.  The amateur
has the advantage of being free to practise photography always as a pure
art form.  He can, if he has the income, indulge himself in the most
expensive and exotic equipment; or he may choose to use archaic,
nostalgic equipment.  He can buy lenses based on scientific charts and
"star ratings" or because they have beautifully-machined parts.  He can
eschew UV filters as degrading and scrub his lenses with his sweatshirt
because if he fails to notice a grain of sand on the front element he
will only need to replace the element... he doesn't have to finish the
day's shooting with the depressing knowledge that the images may not be
saleable, he'll lose the client and untold possible referrals.  There is
a direct relation between the income of a full-time pro and his ability
to think like a businessman.

Regards,
Nigel

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