How about "table top ready" paintjobs? What are some things that make a really good paintjob stand out?

"Professional" is anything you get paid for doing.

Thus, pre-painted minis like the "Star Wars Miniatures" collectible game all have professional paint jobs.

It's just not a good descriptor of quality, which is why most good commision painters have several tiers of paint job specified in their pricing.

I consider "tabletop quality" to be flat colors with a wash and maybe one highlight. Anything above that is "Pro quality" to me.

But strictly speaking, yeah a person who gets paid to paint is technically a professional painter, regardless of quality.

Tabletop standard, more or less, is three colors and basing. I go beyond that, but still consider my stuff tabletop (won't win any painting contests), but look nice on the table. As above, professional is anything paid for. My son doesn't sell his stuff, but shades and layers his stuff. He has won painting contests, so he is a high quality painter. I just don't have the patience for that...

Kevin Dallimore. I love his stuff.

"Professional painters" don't get paint on the carpet, don't leave foot prints and keep the swearing to a minimum.

2 hours ago, Mep said:

"Professional painters" don't get paint on the carpet, don't leave foot prints and keep the swearing to a minimum.

That last bit, I believe, is patently untrue. I have sold painted miniatures in the past and most of my paint jobs are applied with a hefty dose of profanity.