Amateur vs. Professional

The word "amateur" has a negative connotation. An "amateur filmmaker" implicates the artist has little to no experience in their field. That's not necessarily the case. Success cannot be based on a paycheck. The quote below really resonated with me: Cameras donʼt make films; film-makers make films. Improve your films not by adding more equipment and personnel but by using what you have to its fullest capacity. The most important part of your equipment is yourself: your mobile body, your imaginative mind, and your freedom to use both. Make sure you do use them. Maya Deren Film Culture, Winter 1965

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