To some extent, i do agree with Mia strongly on the use of the word "subject" instead of "model". Perhaps the words "model" and "photographer" has taken more of a honorific then professional usage with the digital revolution, as entry level DSLRs are made more affordable to most. Most boundaries have thus be broken down, and with it, the terms used, or rather now, abused.
To me, like any other profession, the word "model" should come with a professional tag. I guess if one is not committed to the line and behaves according to the pre-defined standards of that particular job(modelling in this instance), then perhaps one should not taint the use of the word. I do know of some companies that term their "models" as "talents" instead. Would that not be a better word to use? I cant say for sure.
I have friends who insist on terming themselves as "amateur photographers" instead of "photographers", simply because they do not want to partake in the professional aspects of photography, and yet, they behavior is as professional as it gets in the "amateur" scene. So does this make CS a community of "photographers", or rather a community of hobbists, amateurs, and professional photographers? I, for one cant see the line drawn anywhere. Perhaps its because was never schooled in this topic, or perhaps we are still not "matured" enough in photography as a community to define these lines. Therefore leading to the loose usage of these terms.
I'm not here to flame anyone. This is an internet forum, and forums were places created for people to share their views on certain topics. No one can say who is right or wrong in this instance, but some who are committed to the line of modelling would definately feel a pinch if anyone who poses in front of a camera could be termed a "model" too. If my brother falls sick and i give him two panadols, suppose he recovers, does that then make me a "doctor". I guess not.
On the other hand, to these "models", due to their lack of understanding or whatsoever, it may be that to have a "photographer" holding a professional camera doing portraiture would make her a "model". If i use the panadol analogy on here again, it just doesnt fit in anyway i say it.
My take is, the revolution is here, i suppose we are in an age whereby many boundaries have been broken down, and many terms that were once used openly may need to either be reinforced or redefined. Who knows, this thread here may mark the forecoming of such a change in the way we view "models" and "photographers"
Dun quote me, i'm just a young boy voicing my very amateurish views on this very professional topic.
Cheers
Witness
