Are you a Professional Photographer?

You do not have to have a degree or certificate to be a professional photographer, you just have to make enough money to support yourself. But you should definetly know the insides and out about photographing, your camera and equipment.
Photographers usually charge a flat fee for their time, and then so much for prints, and then(if your state requires) a tax on top of that.
Search for local photographers in your area and talk to them about getting an intership. This would be a great way for you to increase your experience and then open your own photography buisness.
You might find more useful information by visiting photography forums. I use mpix.com, there are a lot of wedding and portrait photographer in there that could advise you better.

Hi! I'm a professional wedding photographer in Fort Worth! I have been photographing weddings for over 15 years. I got a batchelor's degree from UT in photojournalism. But there are a number of good photography schools you can go to that will be more concentrated and you get get through quicker. Do you have your own equipment? It is important to invest in some good camera equipment that you can rely on and become very familiar with. Here's what I recommend: Get some basic training (look up photography schools on internet. I think the Art Institute is a good one). Then shoot, shoot, shoot... put together a portfolio to show potential clients. The way you put together your prices is by looking at what other photographers charge. You can look them up online and look at their websites. If you are interested in weddings, find a photographer to assist, learn all you can from them. You may want to do a couple of weddings at cost to build up a good portfolio. From there, set up a website, make a brochure and market yourself. There are a lot of online wedding sites that will let you put a listing on their site for a small fee or free. Visit bridal shops in the area and leave business cards.
One thing I have learned about weddings is that you have to REALLY want to do them. They can be nerve-racking. You have to be VERY quick and know your equipment VERY well. You have to be a people-person and be able to work with the different members of the family. This career choice does not pay all the bills. It is usually a second job for a lot of people. I have found it to be very rewarding. Good luck!
www.perryphototx.com