Photography as a Career?   

That's the wonderful thing about any art form, it's not based on education per se, it's based on experience and talent :)

Disadvantage is that when you first start out, no matter which art you choose, it's going to be a struggle, just the way it is.

My suggestion: Freelance Photographer. Start your own small business, print business card, buy ads in the newspapers and phone book. Start small and let it build up, you can do this while you still have your "day" job, and when you're ready and have built up enough, you can quit.

There are two things that can make the most money for photographers, Wedding photos and family photos, that's where the money is.

Many photographers make lots of money. You just have to find your niche and style. I live in a large city where there are plenty of photographers and studios. However, I decided to start my own business in February. I have only had 2 sessions so far but both families ordered prints.

I did take lessons and practiced for 12 years before deciding to pro. You do not need expensive equipment to hone your skills and talent. The expensive equipment comes in time when your skills warrent.

HTH

try and register for most of these online sites for a trial and each time you sbmit pictures try to make sure you submit better quality each time ,this will make you an authority in that area and you will become sort after,then you can then charge more for your pictures