The recent death of Princess Diana didn't portray photographers in the best light. But only a small percentage spend their careers as paparazzi, chasing famous people all over the world for tabloid magazines.

The majority of photographers work as freelancers, though some do hold staff positions at newspapers or magazines. And aspiring photographers often start out as assistants.

Not sure if being a photographer is right for you? Take a reality check.

"You don't need a lot of shooting experience to be an assistant," explains Catherine Sternbergh, 30, a freelance commercial and editorial photographer in Kansas City, Mo. "Mostly, photographers are looking for persistence, enthusiasm and initiative, and someone who will work their butt off. In exchange, you get access to expensive equipment and learn lots of photographic techniques."

As an assistant, you'll spend a lot of your time doing things like making sure the lighting is right for a shoot. You'll also handle administrative tasks like picking up supplies.

Work is available in a variety of areas. Commercial photographers shoot fashion, merchandise, machinery or employees for marketing materials such as brochures and catalogs. Portrait photographers, who often have their own studios, take pictures of individuals or families. Some focus on weddings. The paparazzi fall into the photojournalist category. But most photojournalists maintain a much lower profile, covering news or sporting events for magazines or local papers.

Competition for jobs is fierce. Income will be uneven until you've built a reputation. Hours are irregular and often long, and there can be enormous pressure from clients. But don't let that stop you. "If you've got artistic and technical talent, a strong business mind and plenty of drive, you've got a chance," says Natalie Young (left), 24, who graduated with a degree in finance and now works as a freelance photographer and assistant in Nashville, Tenn.