Art you a pro photog?

At what point do you get to call yourself a professional photographer? Is it when you decide that you WANT to be one? When you buy your first semi-decent camera? When you get your first paying gig? When you have enough gigs to be considered a part-time or weekend pro? When you quit your "other" job and are only taking photo gigs? When you can actually support yourself with your camera and only your camera???

Seriously, what do you think? A lot of people call themselves a photographer - as in professional photographer. They don't say it's their hobby. They state "I'm a photographer!" like it is their life, their soul, their sustenance... their everything.

You wouldn't want a weekend warrior doctor trying to save your life, or hobbyist lawyer jumping in and exclaiming, "I'll take the case!", so why is the photography industry so much different? I was talking with the wife about it, and I think it is simple: You only need a pack of ten dollar business cards and a camera that looks halfway professional to feel like the real deal.

It's like cooking. Someone can make a satisfying meal for their family, be an armchair quarterback while watching Top Chef, then suddenly they think that becoming a professional chef is the way to go! They just need a stove, pot, knife, and spatula. Now they are ready to serve the royal family!

So, what do you think makes a professional photographer? Is there a line that can be drawn in the sand? Where can you look to differentiate between pros and hobbyists? I'm not trying to be elitist or exclusive here. I want people to achieve their dreams... their goals. That's one reason why I offer so much info on this blog. It's geared towards people trying to make it in the industry. A seasoned pro doesn't need to read a blog on how to invoice clients. He's been doing that just fine for years.

No, I'm not trying to be negative. It was just an interesting point that was brought to my attention. People think they are a professional photographer at all skill and experience levels. What point is the real, defining moment that makes a pro?