I jumped into photographer almost a year ago. It had always been an interest of mine. I received my first SLR, a Pentax Kx last January for my birthday. Since then my "interest" has grown into a passion to damn near an obsession. I love the excitement of having a creative outlet. The gift of giving memories in a tangible form is an amazing feeling. The growth I've had in under a year has been so fulfilling. As Chase Jarvis said this is such an amazing time to be a photographer. Having so many learning aids at our disposal is awesome. I have upgraded to a K5 and feel, sky is the limit.