In article <4997pn$nlh@rigel.pixi.com>, resgrig@ohana.com says...
(much deleted)
>My main question is this: I would like to consider getting deeper into
>portrait (studio) photography and would like to hear some advice from >those already established in this career as to how I should get the >education and experience I need to be successful. (rest deleted)

In this kind of work, some schooling can be useful before approaching
a photographer (whose work you respect) and offering your services as
an assistant (probably at low, or no pay at first). You will learn quickly what it takes to run a business by working with someone who
is successful.
Hope this helps.