repleo Loc: Boston

I went to a meeting of my local camera club a couple of weeks ago, introduced myself to the man in charge and told him I wanted to enquire about joining. “Are you a Photographer?” he asked. A simple, but loaded question. I fumbled around in my brain for a minute trying to decide if I should explain that I was not a professional, but that I knew a bit about the exposure triangle, rule of thirds, description of my equipment etc. Finally, I pulled my wits together and replied simply “Well, I want to be a Photographer”. Good answer I guess since he replied “Then welcome – you have come to the right place.”

However, that leaves the question – what is, or when is one, a Photographer? A simple dictionary definition of Photographer is “One who practices photography; especially : one who makes a business of taking photographs” and clearly anybody who can earn a living in photography is a Photographer. But, what about everybody else? If photography is the ‘art or process of producing images’ wouldn’t that include everybody who ever clicked on a camera phone or Kodak Brownie. I am not interested in dictionary definitions, but I would like to get an idea of what UHH folks – especially the Pro’s - feel qualifies one as a Photographer. Is there a minimum threshold of knowledge, ability, results or equipment that must be crossed before one is acknowledged or accepted as a Photographer on UHH? Is that title reserved for the Pro’s . What about those who possess all the skills and talents to be a Pro but prefer to make their living by other means?

The camera industry divides the market into categories such as entry level / beginner; enthusiast; prosumer etc. Should we do the same? I fall under the category of enthusiastic beginner with fifty years of experience of taking photographs with increasing levels of seriousness.

I have yet to see full consensus on any topic in this forum, but it would be good to at least get a cross section of UHH opinions of as to who, or what, is a Photographer.

CaptainC Loc: Colorado, south of Denver

You drive a car...you are a driver. Fly a plane...you are a pilot. If you skate....you are a skater. If you run...you are a runner.

If you photograph...I guess you are a photographer. Sure, there are levels of skill and amateur and professionals, but there are the same labels in drivers, pilots, skaters, and runners.

MT Shooter Loc: Montana

I have been a "photographer" for 43 years, professionally for over 30, meaning making more than 50% of my income from my photography. I have owned my own pro level camera store for over 3years and am constantly amazed at the number of rank amateurs who think they are pro level photographers. Both locally and here in this forum.
You do not need to be a "professional" to be a photographer, you only need to be an enthusiast. But don't lie to yourself nor others by claiming to be a professional until you can and DO make a living at it.

Leitz Loc: Solms

You drive a screw...you're a screwdriver.

robertjerl Loc: Corona, California

I got my first camera in the 50s took pictures of friends at school and family.
In the 1966 while at Ft Ord in advanced training I got a used Argus C3 at a pawn shop near the base and starting recording my life in the Army and at home when on leave. Took it to Vietnam photographing on the transport ship, a stop over in Naha Okinawa and when we arrived in Vietnam where over a period of two years I took a few thousand pictures with that C3 and a Miranda Sensorex I got on R&R in Tokyo in 1967.

When I was back home I took pictures, learned to develop my own film and slides while working and in college.

The summer of 1972 I went on a field school to southern Mexico and became the unofficial/official photographer because I had more(and better) gear than anyone else. Out of that I got a newspaper spread, a display/exhibit at Cal State LA and supplied some pictures to one of the professors who was writing a book, I've never seen a copy of it.
While earning my teaching credential I got tired of history and geography classes while getting majors in both, plus of course education so I took photo classes, completing all but the independent project for another major in Cinematography Animation/Photography. At that point I was married, a new father and a beginning teacher so I didn't have time to produce my own short film.

Photography continued to be one of my hobbies.

After 34 years in the classroom I retired 8 years ago this June 30th. Then a bit over three years ago was the last time my wife worked and she noticed that I spent hours each day reading and watching the History, Nat Geo, Smithsonian and Military History channels. She got after me to get out of the house and do something, "Why not get into photography more again Honey!"
Well here it is somewhere around $9000+ worth of digital gear later, minimum (I started with all Sigma gear than switched to Canon.), and plans for about $3000 more. I guess I am into photography more. She got what she wanted.

I have never made a penny out of it. I have never entered a contest. I have only had that newspaper spread in 1972 and one picture I gave to someone for a web site published. I had that exhibit at the university back in 1972 and one as part of a faculty talent show at the last school I taught at. I have done things for friends, no pay.

Am I a Photographer? Well, sometimes, sorta, maybe I guess so. But maybe we better flip a coin to decide.

Mac Loc: Pittsburgh, Philadelphia now Hernando Co. Fl.

Great answer.

LFingar Loc: Claverack, NY

Well repleo, not to be unfriendly in any way, but I don't care if you are a photographer or not. I don't care if you think I am a photographer or not. All that matters to me is that when I grab my gear and head out the door, I'm enjoying myself. That's why I've put a bunch of time and too much money into doing this. As far as I'm concerned, putting labels on others as to whether they are photographers or picture takers or whatever, is nothing but an ego exercise by those trying to validate their opinion of their own abilities. I suggest you not spend a whole lot of time worrying about it. Grab your gear and go have fun!

BebuLamar

But the OP wanted to join the club.

Rongnongno Loc: FL

So one can drink you too?

LFingar Loc: Claverack, NY

True. Personally, I would have my doubts about a club that asked that question, if it was asked in a serious manner. The only question I can think of that would be relevant would be: Do you have an interest in photography? The club I belong to (but, admittedly haven't been to any meetings in a long while) doesn't even care if you own a camera as long as you have an interest. You can always buy a camera.

mallen1330 Loc: Chicago western suburbs

When you take a photograph, you're a photographer. Nowadays, everyone with a smart phone is a photographer. Most are amateur photographers, some are professional. When someone asks that question, answer, "Yes. Why do you ask? Do you have a photo job you want to pay me for?"

repleo Loc: Boston

Good point LFingar. And having fun and enjoying myself was that was what guided me for 50 years. However, a few months ago, I decided it was time to 'step up' and I started to get more serious about photography. I upped my gear, I am reading everything I can get my hands on including UHH every morning, taking courses and getting out every weekend. Unfortunately, these efforts have raised my expectations and aspirations faster than my ability to execute. I am now taking fewer shots that I find satisfying, and I find fault with pictures that have given me pleasure for years. I am less inclined to label myself a Photographer now than I was 6 months ago. However, I will persevere. Hopefully it will all start coming together soon. Until then I will settle for Wanabee Photographer or maybe Wanabeebetter Photographer.

boberic Loc: Quiet Corner, Connecticut. Ex long Islander

I have been using a camera since before 1966. Although I have been published (once) and sold a few portraits, I am far (g ross understatement) from a professional. I like to think of myself, at least, an adequate hobbyist. So, am I a photographer? I suppose so. But (as I have said) to prospective clients- I don't care what you call me, as long as you call me.

jethro779 Loc: Tucson, AZ

I thought you drank screwdrivers.

Linda From Maine Loc: Yakima, Washington

LFingar's two posts + mallen's are perfect, IMO. I too would have been taken by surprise to have that question asked at a photography club!

On the rare occasion I'm asked, I'll clarify that I'm not a pro - meaning I gain no income from photography - "just someone who loves taking pictures."