The suffix -
家 elevates a craft to artistry —
摄影家 is an established artistic photographer, not just anyone with a camera. Compare
摄影师 (shèyǐngshī, 'photographer/cameraman' — the working professional, neutral register) and
摄影爱好者 (shèyǐng àihàozhě, 'photography enthusiast'). Pattern:
画家 (painter),
作家 (writer),
音乐家 (musician),
书法家 (calligrapher) — all carry the -
家 prestige.
