I would like to add just a small piece of advice. Develop your own unique style. Obviously there are essential points as Jim pointed out with specific jobs but I'm speaking in general. I think you need something that sets you apart from all the others running around with cameras. This advice was given to me and I initially thought "what the heck can I do"? I surfed the web, read a ton of books looking for something. I have found when you love what you are doing you will develop that style. Try to show something that has an impact. Understand your clients needs and wants. Then go with it. I still do not do this for the money. Someday it would be nice post retirement but for now I do this for the love of pets and meeting people, and giving them something that will last far beyond their pets time. When you give them the finished product and you see the emotion in their eyes, that beats the heck out of the check from my perspective....