Maya Deren's Amateur Versus Professional Reading Response

In this article Maya Deren the differences between a "Professional" and "Amateur" are explained according to Deren. Professionals have a lot of expectations to meet that also come along with perks. Professionals must stick to strict schedules, organize crews, and meet all sorts of deadlines in order to complete the product on time. In return professionals are rewarded with trained actors, sets, large budgets, extensive crew members with various talents, and equipment. Professionals make films that are sold as product and if the product is successful they are paid. Deren states that the word Amateur should not be frowned upon. She reminds the reader that the latin root of the word translates to lover. "Amateurs" make film out of necessity and love. The passion is what drives them. There won't be a budget or profit or fame, but the filmmaker has what professionals don't. They have freedom. In return there is a lot of work put on the shoulders of a director but passion often alleviates the sense of work. Amateurs can truly do whatever they want within their limitations. This is arguably a more pure experience when compared to a professional's line of work. I would personally take the freedom over fame and success because I am studying cinema out of passion. I think this is a thoughtful article.