How do I become a professional photographer?

I was heard a great street photographer say "Do you know what the best camera in the world is? The one you have with you." That is so true. If you can capture a moment and the light is just right, I can show you a photo from a Canon Powershot and another from a Canon 5D Mark III and you may not be able to tell the difference.

I have sold photographs through Getty images, have many photos used on Wikipedia, and have photos used in textbooks and wildlife books. While I am not a full-time photographer, that is something that I have the option to do.

I would think about what subject matter interests you. Fashion? Product? Weddings? Corporate? Family? Real Estate?

To start buy a reliable camera. Invest in glass (lenses) more so than the camera body. But have both is good. Take a Photoshop and Lightroom class. Learn about lighting. Take lot's of photos. Watermark them and upload them to sites like Flickr, SmugMug, Instagram and others. Allow people to comment on them. Ask for feedback. Follow other photogs that you like. Connect with them. Watch Youtube videos on how to become a professional photographer. Watch camera reviews. Offer to photograph events or headshots or homes for free or low cost. Start to put together a portfolio on sites like SmugMug or other. There are a host of other things to do or try, but these are good starting points.

All the best! Keep taking a learning step and see how it unfolds.

Taking photos as a hobby and building your portfolio, from this look at volunteering at nonprofits or interning to gain more knowledge in the field. You can use your phone but then start to have a professional camera as Nikon, Canon and Sony have the best products. Also, look at joining photography organizations and even interviewing professionals that may be close by.