I think I know what you mean, but getting paid for modeling doesn't change the fact of whether it is 'real' modeling or not. Some could argue that real modeling is when you scratch build the entire kit form sheet stock and plastic rods, or when you carve the wood from the tree yourself.

IMO, modeling is modeling, there is no line of division, there is no one way of doing it, there is no right or wrong. I think when we draw these lines in the sand we cause divisions between hobbyists and I would much prefer to see everyone consider themselves the same, regardless of age, skill level, or what their motivation is.

Besides that, what's wrong with having a job you love? I bet when Lance Armstrong was a kid he loved riding his bike, and maybe later in life, it became a job but I bet he still loved riding his bike even though he got paid/became famous.

Some of the people I have built stuff for in the past were war veterans, they were either from WWII and were too old or didn't have the skill/patience/ability able to build for themselves, or it was the child of that WWII veteran who had no interest in modeling at all but wanted a representation of that vehicle found in that grainy black and white picture of dad, to put on the shelf with his medals.

Modeling may be your hobby but it may not be to others, even though they are interested in the finished piece.