Do you have what it takes?

[Alleh]

I just would like to see how many people want to go professional and believe that they have what it takes and why? Do you have a plan? What are the time frames for your goals etc.?

[Karl Johnston]

I have now named you "General Alleh" :p enjoy the title.

Sorry, bit of canadian humor for you, there. Maybe share of your own experiences with going professional, your route to professionalism, what you believe it takes and what your plans and goals, aspirations and muse is to break the ice of this thread.

It looks like it will be an interesting one.

[Nightstalker]

There are many ways to "Go Pro" - I did this about 5 years ago after being made redundant from my job of 18 years.

I do a lot of contract work and TBH would not post the vast majority of my shots up on the boards because they are by of necessity repetitive and boring because I have to conform to tight customer standards with absolutely no room for creative expression at all.

The commrecial work I do is more open to creativity but this is only a small part of my billing at present although I am looking to build this side of the business.

Do you have what it takes? Well this is not really a photography question it is IMHO more of a business question.

You can be the worlds best photographer but be poor because you can't market yourself, alternately you could be a mediocre shooter with good business skills that makes a packet.

Being a Pro is a business - 80% business / 20% photography isn't too far from the mark.

[Tunneruk]

I am as we speak setting up my photography business, In fact I sold my first commissioned work yesterday!

My plan is to start with fairly boring but all important home portrait shoots, It's not my intention to build my own studio but I'm interested in architecture shooting.
I'm not putting myself under pressure by quitting my job and hoping I'll be instantly successful but instead building up both my reputation and contacts over a period of time.
I believe two things, 1. It'll be at least a year before I'l be able to even consider making it my full time profession. 2. The more exposure I can get out there in the world the more opportunities will present themselves. I don't want to run before I can walk, I intend to start with good business ethics and build from there, It'll be a voyage of discovery I know but I'm looking forward to the challenge.