UNIVERSITY:  
I was a double major, neither were art. I had studied photography in high school and loved it, so I took just about every photography course my university offered.

TRAINING:
After graduating university I decided to pursue photography. My university profs were all working photographers so I called a few, looking for leads on jobs. One of my profs actually needed an assistant, and that’s how I started working in event photography. I spent years assisting her and other event photogs, second shooting, and handling all aspects of post production at the office before striking out on my own.

How long you been working?
I’ve been working in photography for 16 years.

Who are your clients?
My clients are typically couples in their late twenties and early thirties who are getting married. I also photograph family portrait sessions. I used to shoot a lot of corporate events, and while I do some of that still it’s mostly weddings and families.

How do you keep your skills current?
I attend conferences and trade shows. Online resources are plentiful (Creative Live, blogs, webinars, etc.). I also watch DVDs (Strobist, Zac Arias, etc.) and read magazines and books. There are local professional photography groups that get together for various speakers. I am very fortunate to have a friend who is a gear nut and who does photography podcasts so I get to pick his brain and check out his newest stuff.

What do you enjoy most about photography?
I enjoy so very many different things about photography.  I especially love having an idea of what I want to capture with the light and subject, getting it all into place, and then letting go and allowing a real moment to happen AND getting the shot.

Are there any tips you would offer to beginners like me?
Yes!  Study art, composition, and light. Learn how to use studio lights and speedlights. Become an expert in Photoshop. If you want to pursue a career in photography, go out and do some internships and assist established photographers so you can figure out if there’s a particular type of photography you most want to pursue. Buy the best glass you can afford. Back up everything. Twice. And once again off site.
Check out this guy (http://vimeo.com/39578584). I also love this website (http://www.brainpickings.org/) – it talks a lot about the creative process.