Jim & Julie...is photography how you earn your livings or is it a side business? Just curious

I do see your point(s) and agree that candids are not likely to draw much of an income in comparison. And Jim, yes, marketing this type of photo to the pet population would be a challenge as well as time consuming.

I probably have some "tunnel vision" as well as I am a dog sport person (don't show or breed). As a consumer, I am an event photographers dream...I buy pictures willy-nilly, even when they have no real photographic merit (this is true of most dog sport people). Getting good action shots and outdoor candids of my dogs behaving in ways that are natural to them is the reason why I bought a DSLR. I have never hired a pro to do formal portraits.

Anyway, just in case you're wondering...I am most definitely an amateur hobbyist but have a keen interest in photography and aspire to be "good" one day

As far as selling photos...I'm considering dabbling in dog sports this year, only because I'm already there participating and shooting out of interest. People seem to like what I'm getting, I spend a lot of time on it, so why not? The market IS there for dog sports...no real marketing efforts required.

I suspect that, from a business perspective, I'd benefit more from the potential tax write-offs than in drawing an income. I'd be happy if I could make enough money to cover entry fees/gas/hotel etc. I'd be even happier if it allowed me to upgrade my equipment.

I've attached a coursing afghan for interest sake...