My stories are pretty simple, because I don't consider myself a professional photographer...although *technically* I am, since that's what I do at my job.
My story: I don't think I can ever be a professional unless someone else is the person running the business. I hate all that other stuff. The people skills, the business skills, etc. As long as I am working for someone else, I am a relatively happy camper. I love assisting, being a second shooter, and I love being on staff where I am now. When working for myself, I find the wealth of other crap that goes with being a professional to be near unmanageable. I truly admire those who can do it all! I plan on working photographically for other photographers or on staff at businesses rather than going independent, and doing whatever the hell I want to do for my own enjoyment when not working. I don't plan on making a dime doing the work I truly love!
So there!
My recent revelation is that I need to become a staff photographer for the Catholic Church. Travel the world, stay in good digs, eat good food, shoot interesting stuff, meet very interesting people, and hopefully be able to move to Italy! I wonder if they will hire an atheist with a strong understanding of Christian history as opposed to a proper Catholic.....
Oh yeah...and I am working on a photography degree so I can become a teacher. I am about halfway there...transferring to Art Center next year...