What are photography careers like? ?

My mom says i should look for something else to do, that i won’t make enough money and i’ll "end up waitressing." my friend says that i could make a lot of money, even just photographing weddings and stuff. she mentioned paparazzi but i’m not interested in that whatsoever. galleries? idk exactly. would anyone enlighten me? thanks

Lets get back to basics.

* Get some formal education in photography … you will not only learn how to use your camera (and others) under almost any conditions, you will also though completing assignments, get a taste for all the various fields of photography there are.
* After school, become an assistant for a successful photographer in the field of photography you enjoy … this could include wedding, portraitist, advertising, fashion, event, sports … well the list can go on nearly forever.
* Spend some time learning how the business end of photography works and that charging $700 a day, may lead you into bankruptcy.
* Then network with other pros in your area … here in the States, ASMP and NPPA are excellent organizations that have local chapters in medium to large market areas. Attend some of their meetings as a guest and start networking.