How did YOU get started as a professional photographer?

[maddison]

My husband is a professional photographer and it amazes me how much goes into getting excellent quality photos. He mainly does weddings and the detail is awesome. From how people are holding their sholders to how far apart their fingers are on the bouquet. Lighting is always an issue... Fore ground lighting, background lighting.... Knowing how to pose a tall thin groom with an overweight short bride.... The list goes on.
I personally would do the course. To get the really good pics you need to know more than just standing people next to each other and snapping away. Especially if you are wanting to get paid for it.

As for your question about getting started, my dh's parents are both professional photographers so he started by working with them from his teenage years. Now he has an assistant that he is teaching. So if you could work with an already qualified photographer that is possibly another great way to get into it.

[~Raven~]

I would say first off to do a short course to learn how to use your camera manually if you don't know already. A whole new world of creative possibilities opens up for you once you know that. You don't need to spend a lot. I did a short course at my local community centre for less that $100 and spent the next 4 years practicing...practicing...practicing before biting the bullet and doing more specialist courses.

You haven't said what type camera you have either. If you don't have an SLR/DSLR already then maybe aim for a good mid range one. The entry level ones are fine but you may outgrow them quickly or find the lack of functions frustrating.

Also find out if you have a local camera club and join it!

Then there is photoshop, which is something else entirely