1. Your work should be top tier. You need to be able to light anything and everything, or be able to figure out how. If you can’t seem to book high-paying jobs, learn how to make better photos by assisting assisting assisting. 2. Be the most reliable photographer that anyone knows. And always be willing help and cheer on other photographers and creatives. 3. Learn how to sell your work. 4. This is a business, not a hobby, run your inbox as such. Respond to everyone as quickly as possible.