At your stage, it would be worlds better for you to start working on a portfolio than an actual job. Take some time to contact local photographers and see if you can volunteer your time at their studio. Whether it's cleaning their camera room or dragging their equipment around when they need it. As you do this, watch them and pay attention to what they do. You'll pick up TONS of information this way. Also, convince mom and dad to buy a book or two that will help you get the basics of photography down.

There is a LOT more to building a photography business than just taking pictures. You have to have a keen business sence, understand local and state laws about copyrights, release forms, taxes, book keeping and malpractice suits. There is very little fun in it when you first start out. (which is why i suggest an apprenticeship first)

However - you can make a living solely on photography. About 95% of my income comes from my wedding photography alone and it's enough to keep me going for the majority of the year (from march - november).

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