Is photography still a hobby or just work?

gaz87 · Nov 11, 2013

Hi all,

It would be interesting to know if as a professional photographer, do you still do it as a hobby? Or does doing it as your work take the fun out of it?
Did everyone start as a hobbyist or enthusiast before making their way into the pro world?

Thanks

Trever1t · Nov 11, 2013

My work is work but my love is my love. Sometimes they blend but not always. When on a job I have a set of rules. When pursuing my pleasure those rules go out the window.

ABfilms · Nov 11, 2013

It is currenlty my hobby, my main job is webdevelopment! I am not planning making photography my job in the future

kathyt · Nov 11, 2013

I love shooting, but I hate editing.

gaz87 · Nov 11, 2013

kathythorson said:
I love shooting, but I hate editing.

Why do you hate editing?
For me its one of the most fun parts - to take something average or normal and make it look better or more interesting - or perhaps thats the difference between pro and enthusiast? I guess if you just shot a wedding you really don't wanna be doing that for hundreds of photos of aunt berty

MartinCrabtree · Nov 11, 2013

If you can still pick up a camera w/o being paid and enjoy it it's both.

tirediron · Nov 11, 2013

I almost always enjoy shooting, but I always enjoy shooting for me more than I enjoy shooting for someone else.

DougGrigg · Nov 11, 2013

I enjoy both aspects, setting yourself personal projects alleviates the thought of "work" and pushes me forward in my own photography. Sometimes I have to admit I'm around cameras so much it is hard to distinguish work and play sometimes.

12sndsgood · Nov 11, 2013

It's both for me. Earning money from portraits. Weddings babies etc helps pay some of the bills. Fund new purchases and fund trips to photo drift events. I love getting time out on the track even if I'm not always getting paid for that part of my photography yet.