I received my first beginner SLR, a Rebel XTi, as a Christmas present when I was a junior in high school. It was easy to get started because I took all my friends' senior pictures the next year, and they in turn referred me to their friends and family. Word-of-mouth has been the single most powerful marketing tool for me; my clients are so great.

Once I had been taking pictures for awhile and began making a profit, I was able to upgrade to my 5D and 50mm f/1.4. One of the best pieces of advice I've ever received is to invest in the best tools that you can afford for your craft, because the results of your investment translate directly to improving what you're passionate about.