Lighting-Essentials had a great post about failing at photography as a career. 'Fail' is a harsh word, but it needs to be said. Now that it's out there, read the article and learn about the many pitfalls people fall - and gripe about - when things don't work out for them in their photographic career.

My two favorites are #1 and #8, Gear and Time.

Gear: I've said it before and I'll say it again - I don't have the 'best' gear known to mani (I openly admit I shoot with one of least expensive wide-angle lenses on the market) - and guess what - it makes virtually no difference in my workflow or my results. Buying a $5,000 camera and $2,000 lens won't make my work any easier - it'll most likely just make me feel more nervous when I lock my car door when I stop somewhere for lunch. 'Better' gear doesn't ≠ better photos. Better technique, yes. Better use of light, yes. But 'better' gear - sounds like an excuse to buy something new and shiny.

Time: Give your business a fighting chance. It can take a good long while, even only making calculated and responsible purchases, to make your truly livable salary. Many people want their numbers to work out in their favor in a month or two - the simple truth is that it's not likely to work out that way. Set reasonable goals and achieve them with your business. Plant your name in your community, live up to it, and give it time.

Check out the complete article here.