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I began my career in professional photography in 2003, when I took my intense hobby and turned into a supplemental income. Today, I own my own business photographing weddings and portraits and often can't find the time to breathe.

However, I would not have it any other way because it's my passion.

Becoming a freelance photographer can be quite challenging. I know I met my fair share of challenges along the way. There are so many factors that go into being able to become a professional photographer, it can be difficult to know where to begin. For one, you need good equipment, which means you need money. You will also need a good portfolio to show prospective clients so they will want to hire you. This also leads to the fact you will also need to be a good sales person. You can be the greatest photographer in the world, but if you do not market and get your name out there, you will not go anywhere. This is why many mediocre photographers somehow make a killing in photography. They know how to sell.

While advertising is important, you will have to know how to handle your prospective clients once they call. This is where strong sales skills are extremely important. You will also need a professional, polished look. I've heard too many stories of the grubby wedding photographer who photographed Cousin Rob's wedding and they just could not believe they would hire anyone who looked like that! How unprofessional!

Since I am one to write from my own experience, I will do the same here. For me the road was somewhat long, but since I now know many photographers, I have learned collectively what works and what doesn't. If you want to be a freelance photographer, here's what you need to do:

1. Network. Get to know all the photographers you can. Send them your resume, offer your services, tell them you are available for overflow of work. While this can be a very tricky area to get into, since most are likely to view you as future competition, you must approach them as an equal, not a subordinate. Even if they do not need or want you right away, many times, later down the road, they will need help.

2. Buy a DLSR good camera. Entry level is fine if you cannot buy an expensive one, but you'll want to upgrade sooner or later. And if you cannot afford the cheaper of the DSLR's, at least get a film SLR. Take all the photos you can of whatever you can to build your portfolio. Ask friends and neighbors if you can photograph them and their children and offer them prints for their participation.

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