What You Will Need To Get Started

• There are no licenses or certifications legally required to become a photographer, but most professional photographers have a degree in art or photography or some other professional training. Many colleges have photography programs. There is a lot of technical knowledge involved so you should get some training.
  
• You will need at least one good camera, several different lenses and a darkroom (or access to a darkroom) to get started. The equipment you will need depends on what you are shooting. There are many books and websites with helpful information about photography equipment.
• You should also take a look at the trade organization Professional Photographers of America. There are many resources and information for professional photographers.
• You should get a website.  You can use it to market your business and display your work.
• A good way to grow your business locally is to contact different event venues, like banquet halls, and try to work out referrals for each other.
• You should talk to a lawyer, not only about the advantages of forming a legal business entity, but about designing and reviewing the contracts you will use for clients.