To be honest, it's not good enough to just be able to compose a shot and snap away any more. I see modern photography (well, good photography) as an art, more so than a skill (if that makes sense).
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Drawing, painting, sketching, sculpture and photography are all forms of art, and each require a certain set of skills to accomplish presentable results. However, as with any art form, the beauty is in the eyes of the beholder. [:#]
I see modern photography, (Digital Photography) as a form of art that requires multiple skills. Starting with at least a basic knowledge and understanding of the science and technology, knowledge and skill in photographic composition, and then last but not least, graphic arts (E.g. Photoshop) and how and when to use all the tools available for that. Some people get Photoshop CS and don't even know what they have. For everything they do with a picture they probably don't even need 1% of what they can do in PS Elements or DPP. It's the Name!
I consider myself moderately experienced with some skill and knowledge in what I am doing, but I do not consider myself a photographer. Currently I am an unemployed Framing Carpenter. Hmmm Maybe I should become a Photographer. [*-)]
You're correct however, I know too many people who buy a nice expensive DSLR using full auto as a P&S and consider themselves an experienced photographer after about a week of good use. There are also those who buy a nice expensive DSLR expecting miracles, and then wonder why they aren't getting good pictures and blaming the poor results on the camera or camera lens.