Originally Posted by
Redgum
William, that is the topic. This young person wants to give photography a go as a career. Sure, you may not be successful now or need to diversify but that shouldn't kill his ambition. You have been going for 18 years and that's a long time for a career these days.
The industry hasn't changed for the worse. I started in 1965 from a very poor position and what I earn from photography alone now will see me very comfortable for the rest of my life. I wish the same outcome on this young guy and would encourage him wholeheartedly to pursue his ambition.
Yes, diversification is the key to even greater success and no one should be reliant on one source of income if that's possible. For some it may be two or more careers paralleling each other and for others it will be two or more jobs. The days of a single lifetime career are well and truly over.
Go for it young fella and if it doesn't work you have a lifetime to take many other directions. William, your choice and my choice are limited by where we are (ageing) but don't let that hinder others.