I guess the common answer is to shoot more often, along the way practices will help you hone ya skills.. Portfolio is something which you'll accumulate along the way, i mean the more often you shoot, the more good shots u got, the bigger is your portfolio.
True to an extent. If every 5 shots of 1000 turns out good, then you'll get 100 of them in about 20,000 right? :sweat: I think you still have to reach a level when you've got 32/36 shots on the good side, otherwise, you know you're not there yet. Take every opportunity you have to improve, ask someone who's got the experience, and most importantly, LISTEN.
Let your friends and family know you're into photography and show them what you can shoot, as time passes, if they like what they see(or what you see in this case), your path is paved!
If my family's approval rating for my photographs could ensure that my path was paved, then i think being a professional photographer would be a whole lot easier. In this line, you have to expect rejection. You may like what you've taken, your family could very well love it. At the end of the day, someone else is paying for the food on the table.
That will slowly lead you into the world of freelance photography i guess..
Like everything, it takes time. Doesn't happen overnight..
All da best 
Best piece of advice. It takes quite a bit of time; not to mention money, sweat, backaches, blood, sleepless nights. Hey, you don't know when your next paycheck is going to arrive.
However, after you've managed to convince your folks that it's a good career move, and you've made it good, then you can give yourself a pat on the back. :thumbsup:
