becoming a pro

To me, being a "Pro" is a mindset and and an impression.
There are people out there who have been painting kids with acrylics for money for years. They aren't pros in my book becauase they've chosen to disregard one of the most important rules of face painting: making the experience, a safe and fun experience for the child/client. Its for that reason that sometimes, earning a fee isn't all it takes to be a true professional.

Your PRO status depends on you as much as whether you earn money doing it. Are you willing to invest in your 'business'? Are you taking steps to get insured? Do you have a policy on hygiene standards? The list goes on and on. I know many painters who only paint on the weekends, but run their businesses like a business and some who use their painting revenue as a primary source of income who haven't the business sense of a cactus.

Yes, designs and training can help, but in an internal, confidence bolstering way. Your customers will determine your Pro status by the package that you present to them and whether or not you treat your painting as a business or a hobby.

One becomes a professional when they set themselves up a such. It is more than simply painting well and getting paid.

Professionals are licensed, insured, use proper products, supplies, act professionally with ethical standards, have a professional set-up, understand the protocals in the industry (understand how to work as a professional entertainers), act with professional conduct and attitude. And looks to industry standards in becoming trained and skilled.

Certainly this grows and one becomes more and more professional. But certainly too when one starts at a level where they are striving to be "professional" (and I mean really trying! to do it properly) they can only become better.

It is not accurate to say that just because you have been paid you are a "professional" There's much more to it than that. I mean bring it back to your daily lives when you need a plumber, a contractor, a doctor, a lawyer, a hair stylist/colorist. You don't hire these people to to jobs for you just because they have been paid. Think about what makes you choose one person over another. It's their credentials, references, testimonials, how long they've been in business, these are the things that you qualify them being a professional versus the "other guy". So it is no different in our industry.

as the 2 other ladies before me posted there is alot more that goes into being a professional.

If you are willing to put in the time and money to your craft and into growing your business you will get there. It really comes down to your dedication to the profession.

Thanks to everyone for the positive and uplifting advice. I am new to this arena and was wondering about my indoctrination..lol. When I find myself thinking too hard about it, I tell myself "as long as I act like I know what I am doing, I can fool the best of them". With this said, I have my first potential paying gig coming up real soon and I'm anxious...I guess I'll go practice my lines....Action!

As for as the insurance, I was referred to Specialty Insurance. Stephanie was awesome and answered all of my questions. I left a VM and she called me back.

Thanks again for the positive feedback.