A good way to get started in photography as side job?

Hey guys

I have been doing some thinking and wanted to try to make some money taking pictures for people, parties, family pets, things like that. I was hoping to make a few bucks while getting better and making a folder for myself. My picture taking has is pretty decent i think for what it is.

My friend came up with the idea if i make fliers and put them in stores and what not people might be interested and call me. I would charge 50 bucks and come to lets say a bday party, Take my pictures for the party. I then would put them on a online gallery which only the guests at the party would see and they could buy them from me for a small price, not sure how much is a good price is if i should even ask for money.

Dose this sound like a good way of getting into it for somebody starting out like me? Any ideas form the pros is great . I have nice gear and want to put it to use, let it make me some money instead of spending it.

To break it down i lil better. 50 covers the night taking pics and putting them on a gallery or a CD. No PP. all original. Optional: they pay for pics they like or i give them for free.

Thanks for your time. if my idea sounds dumb please don't make fun lol. Every time i go on a lil trip i always have my camera and people are always asking if i do it for a living, well maybe now its time to start!

Ive just seen this. The problem is, people will want to see your work first. Get a portfolio, and then you can back up your claim that you CAN do it. So many people have a digital camera and think they can but when it comes down to it, cant.

Its a good idea but portfolio first is a must before you can start. Oh, and no PP? i'd sugest a small bit of PP work done.

Some photos could be included on the in-store flyer (or brochure), at least to gain initial interest, but it would have to be great photos, quality reproduction, and good layout design. An included link for an online portfolio could allow for more examples.

Other marketing might include a table or handouts at smaller local fairs, church fairs, swap meets, small business expos, etc. People comfortable with Web search (e.g., via Craigslist) probably are not the target market (and ads posted there looking for photographers often expect free services with delivery of original digital files, while generously touting valuable experience for the photographer to build up her/his portfolio).