Today is the start of something a little different, an experiment of sorts.

Since this podcast launched in September 2014, and become more popular, I've started to see a lot more questions from photographers asking for advice in their business.

That's great, by the way, and do keep them coming, but while I answer as many as I can, I also feel that a lot of the answers could help a lot more of you.

So, I thought I would start doing the occasional shorter episode like this one, where I spend just a few minutes answering a question from readers or listeners like yourself.

To get things started, here's a great question I got just today from Michelle.

She says:

"I started picking up a camera in January when a friend gave me her old Canon Rebel 350.  Since then, I've been taking classes locally to understand the exposure triangle and have been out there practicing.  For a couple of months now, I've been listening to your podcasts and enjoy the content and experienced photographers you bring on as guests.

I'm 51 years old and own an insurance agency and considering taking more advanced classes in photography with the idea that food photography may be a great niche for me as part of a 5-year plan.

Can you tell me if there is any "real money" in photography, other than weddings?

Is there any money in Food Photography and, if so, what aspects of that niche are most profitable?

I hate the idea of putting money first, but when considering changing things around in your life, it has to be a priority."

Here's a quick summary of my answer:

• It's never too late to make a career change!
• Technical photography education is obviously important...
• But don't forget the business & marketing education!
• The idea of "real money" is a bit vague but let's put some specifics on that...
• Don't fear discussing the money side of a business - it cannot survive without it!
• Weddings isn't the only money maker in photography...
• Business is what you make of it...
• You have to decide what you're passionate about and then go and get the business...
• Invest time interning and studying with photographers whose work you admire and respect...
• Practice - A LOT! Shoot everything you can, whenever you can...
• Learn to be your most brutal editor - cull the work you present until you can't cull it any more...
• From there present only your best work then stretch yourself even further...
• If you're comfortable with what you're doing take another step out of that zone...
• When it comes to pricing, know what it costs you to do business and then price for profit...
• Yes, it's hard, and getting harder, but persistence is key...
• Sometimes we feel a bit like the only way to win is to be the last man standing...

With food photography there are lots of avenues to explore, but I would focus on what you love rather than the potential profit, at least to begin with...