Becoming a professional

[Miss Jane]

At what stage do you consider yourself a professional photographer?
Is it when you can sell your photos to the public, when potential customers come looking for you, when you register a business name etc? Just after other photographers experiences.
I don't consider myself a pro but am wondering if the progression/advancement of your photography skills naturally leads you to this?

[ricktas]

For me it is when you make enough money, on a regular basis, that it becomes a major part of your income stream. Anyone can sell a few photos every now and then, but to do it successfully week in-week out, to me means you are a professional, cause then it is about your photography, your product, your marketing, your business acumen, your approach, your 'image', your skills, your ability..which all add up to your professionalism.

[Miss Jane]

Thanks for the reply ricktas. My tax lady said not to bother with tax return stuff until the turnover get to the min for small business which is something like $22k. She said to keep it as a hobby. I said it would never get to that status...but you never know where your photography will take you. I'm still a very long way off in that respect but amazed how far I've come in 12 months without really marketing.

[AVALANCHE]

I'd consider a professional level to be when your earnings from Photography is your Primary source of income.

[achee]

I'd agree with what has been said above. It's often implied that a 'professional photographer' is a significantly better photographer than an amateur photographer, but that isn't necessarily the case.