Getting a photography job is very competitive but have you considered selling stock photos? Selling stock means that you contract will a stock house and upload your photos for the public to look at. Pick your best shots that are composed well and have good lighting. Those who are in need of photos buy the right to use your in their advertising or other original photography projects. Look on the net for stock photohouse for ideas. Getty Images is one that you could look into.
A stock house will specialize their images by theme. For instance some handle photos of people and others animals and even others only industrial shots. You have to find the house that you want to shoot for and contract with them.
All photographers are not an Ansel Adams especially not a beginner. Equipment can make a big difference. Get good equipment! That is, do not break the bank but get the best that you can afford. I don't guess I have to tell you that film is dead so go strictly digital. Nikon, Olympus and Canon offer some very good and very expensive camera bodies and lenses. If you are willing learn what you are doing it can be worth it.
A piece of gear that has proven helpful is a light meter. Not a first purchase but later when you become proficient. You might ask yourself why would I need a light meter since ALL digital cameras have one built in. Well the built ins are handy but should not be totally depended on because it if effected by the subject of the photo instead of the light falling on the subject. Lighting is a very big deal.
Check out areas where to commonly go everyday for photo locations. Keep in mind they need to be easy to get in and out of for the subject. A bride to be will not be too thrilled with her portrait when her freelance photographer has walked her through a gully. You probably will not make money that way.
Lessons are a good step to take so ask anyone you know that knows about photography. Community colleges offer classes and a group situation could teach you a lot. Shoot constantly with your equipment. The more intimate you are with your gear the more knowledgeable you will become. You could even get good at photography.
You may have to give up your copyright to be stock photographer. That means that once the photo is uploaded and or purchased whoever pays for the use of that photo can use it as many times as they want where and how they want. You have no control and make no more money. That could be ok because you are doing something that you love to do and sharing it with all the world.
The most important thing is to take pictures. Take your camera equipment everywhere you go. Don't ever miss a chance to shoot since you need all the experience you can get. Get up for the sunrise or stay late for sunset. Light is a huge component of a photographer's craft. Learn how to work with it. Good luck and happy shooting.
