Digital Art a lifestyle or an income?

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Is it truly possible to make money freelancing digital artwork and just how hard does one have to advertise themselves to make money on this type of work? Another question is this; is it just a lifestyle fad that is hitting big in the world? I know of many men in my neighborhood that are completely involved in making digital art through free programs like POV-ray and Blender. I've played with these programs and they seem fun but is it really worth spending hours and hours creating something that looks realistic when you can go outside and take a picture of it? Most cartoons and movies are created with digital art today which is great, our cable has become "digital" which I guess is alright but is it just a passing fashion? Or is it a good income for freelancers?