Originally posted by Lord Lucan I would prefer a certificate that identifies me as an amateur photographer. On more than one occasion I have been mistaken for a professional (what with the expensive looking gear) in situations like street scenes and landscapes, not in regular tourist places, and some people have not liked it. For example they can seem to assume I am working for a debt collection agency or something and I'm valuing their property. It helps to assure them that I'm just a nutty amateur taking random pictures.
Funny how "amateur" was once regarded as a superior description to "professional" - as in Victorian cricket the amateurs were referred to as the "gentlemen" and the professionals as the "players". Hence the title of the "Amateur Photographer" magazine, established 1884.
Well, a professional was lowering himself to take a picture desired by clients, while the amateur was free to just do what his/her little heart desired.
I shot the wedding of a niece a while ago. Being a professional is degrading work.
Everyone is always telling you what to do, and amateurs always want to tell you how to do it better, ad nauseam.
Can't they see you'e busy?