I'm a full-time photographer but only half of my income comes from stock photography. Should I consider myself a hobbyist or pro?

I voted. Using my definition of amateur as someone who does photography for fun or a hobby and doesn't care if they get paid or not, and most times they do not sell their photos. A professional makes money from selling their photos whether full or part-time and reports such income on their income taxes, like a business.

Very interesting poll. You know what else ive been wondering? Where everyone is from. Love reading the results. Btw, I'm in Texas

Mark me down as another Texan (Austin). I knew some of the contributors were over 40, but I expected more under 30 too.

Old enough to know better...

Maybe I should have put a 70+ up there...

I'm a full-time photographer but only half of my income comes from stock photography. Should I consider myself a hobbyist or pro?

The Pro / amateur question could be a whole never ending debate on it's own. 

I put down amateur based on income from photography vs total income from all sources. As far as hours worked, I spend more time taking pictures / editing, than anything else. I spend more on equipment and expenses to earn that income, than anything else. I shoot "professionally" contract, on spec., for print publications, news sources, and websites. (and sell stock of course) So which am I?

Maybe we can have a survey with the question, what makes someone a professional? Income, expense or working? 

According to my accountant, reporting to the IRS, it's "hobby income". If it's good enough for Uncle Sam, it's fine with me.

At 50, i am in the 20+.

Are my math ok?

Claude

I guess your only as old as you feel...Me I'm 29 with 20 years experience....lol

50+ Pro

100% of my business is nature stock of which 90% is RM and 10% RF (of which 50% is microstock).

We'll see if I can stay in business long enough to reach the next age bracket in your poll.....

I can't give up smoking though.

It's easy! I've done it thousands of times.

Quote from: FD-regular on August 12, 2010, 02:04

Quote from: Eireann on August 11, 2010, 21:02

I can't give up smoking though.

It's easy! I've done it thousands of times.

 

Lol

Quote from: Eireann on August 11, 2010, 21:02

I can't give up smoking though.

It's easy! I've done it thousands of times.

I quit counting many years ago. I need to buy stock in Camel. I'd probably make more money off it than I do microstock...

Isn't that a Twain quote (or paraphrase)?  (I mean Mark Twain obviously - not the twain in the wailway station).

Yep, it is generally attributed to Twain;

"To cease smoking is the easiest thing I ever did.  I ought to know because I've done it a thousand times."  ~Mark Twain, attributed