As someone who is doing this on a full-time basis I can tell you now that it is very hard work doing this job.
Since the beginning of April my feet have hardly been at home. Now, that might sound great but it is very tiring indeed and there is also me being away from my family, which is not great but part of the job.
I was just reading the 33 things about pros o the front page of the site. The one response that hits the nail on the head is: Pros are out all the time taking photos. Then comes the response to it about what comes afterwards and this is the part people miss:
1) Processing those photos/ videos. I am currently around 750 or so photos behind in my processing. I also have about 50 or so videos that need working on.
2) Deciding where to put those photos. Placement in particular library is key. You have to know who will sell your photos and get you the best return for what it is you've shot.
3) One your library has been decided you then have to keyword and describe your images. Metadata is key to people finding your photo once in a library.
4) The admin work. I wanted to get away from this style of work but unfortunately you still have to do it. Paperwork, tax returns, chasing bills etc.
5) You soon get used to saying "weekend, what weekend?"
6) Nearly forgot. Deadlines! You get the call/ email to say can we have this yesterday. I do my utmost to meet, beat and nail any deadline given to me.
HOWEVER!
I wouldn't swap it for going back to some darkened, air-conditioned, clique office
You still want to do the job???
Jools
PS I recently took someone out as part of a magazine feature. The day started at 0430AM and finished at around 930PM. Breakfast was scarce, lunch fared better and forget about dinner!