While i'm sure everybody on Madcow is entirely honest about their experience (cough - cough) i have noticed that on some sites that the quoted level of experience can appear to differ from what's actually seen. This applies to both models and photographers.
On discussing this subject with a friend today the question was raised "How are the experience levels (amateur, semi-pro, pro) actually graded and by who"? To which i could only say "self-assessment and the opinion of others". But can this be right ?
Now i consider myself an amateur based on the fact (like many) i don't have a formal qualification or certification from any recognised photographic body or university; i don't derive all my income from my photography (although i wish i did); i don't work full time as a photographer (as in 40hr weeks); and although i have the experience, I still consider there to be much more to learn before i'd feel comfortable calling myself even semi-pro - let alone professional.
So is there an official definition on what makes a person (model or photographer) an amateur, semi-pro or pro in their chosen field?