Making a living in wildlife?

[Morrie Farbman]

Why not encourage him to do both? I spent 24 rewarding years as a firefighter and on my days off fed my passion for photography. I still work in public safety (911 Director) and spend my spare time in landscape photography. I think it is important to mentor with both encouragement and challenge. Encourage him to follow his passion and challenge him to have a backup plan that can support his passion.

[DougAxford]

Thanks for all the replies. I think the issue I have is that he probably has very little talent but sold a few images and now thinks it's 'big times'. I encouraged him to do the photos while learning and earning in another secure, well paid job. I don't see this as a passion but more as a fling. I could be wrong but when I asked my son about him a few days ago he had never seen him with a camera and was shocked.

I think a workshop would be a good option for him for now. It makes me sad that when I see so much money being spent on students for 3-4 years of school and then they can't find jobs anywhere in the photography.

Doug

[Ronald Garrett]

I still say that he should be encouraged to "follow his dream". One doesn't know how to savor success unless one has failed and knows what that feels like too. Growing up is a never ending process. Many times "talent" is an aquired trait. When we learn how to do one thing, it often aids us to do something different well. Famous people come from all walks of life. One persons idea of success may be vastly different from anothers. Happiness cannot be bought with money or a college degree.

Support the young man. Even if he fails, what he learns now will either encourage him later, or discourage him. Either way he will, one day appreciate the support.

I think the workshop is an excellent idea. See where it leads. You might just experience a small measure of satisfaction yourself for having given him an opportunity.