A real professional versus amateur

What makes one a professional photographer? Many would say one that makes their living by doing photography. I’d like to offer a different definition. I believe a professional photographer can be one that desires quality over quantity. I see so many photographers who earn a living, or at least supplement their income, with photography but depend on the old “spray and pray” mindset. You know, if I take 2,000 shots I’ll get a few good ones, rather than planning and setting up to ensure success beforehand. It is often said that the difference between a professional photographer and an amateur photographer is that a professional photographer works until they can’t get it wrong, while an amateur photographer works to get it right.

My goal is to work until I can’t get it wrong. I prefer quality over quantity. Creativity over snaps of the shutter. As in the photograph above, the cup was selected to send a specific message. The lighting was intentionally set up as well as the pose. I didn’t take 10 or 15 shots of the same setup, I did take a couple just to ensure that I captured what I intended. My goal is to become a professional photographer in the sense that I can achieve quality results without worrying about getting it wrong.