How or what would I need to start my own business in photography?

Photography equipment, knowledge and ability in photography, state and probably federal licenses/permits, lots of money...

Really, it's not as easy as coming here and asking people to lay it all out for you. You will have to do as I did when I started my business. You will need to go to your state website and start researching. You will need to go to your local small business place and ask them for help. You will need to find others that are doing the same thing and maybe they can guide you. You will need to talk to attorneys and accountants. There really is so much to starting something that a simple post on a Q&A site is not even going to come close to giving you what you're looking for.

Well, for starters, a camera might be helpful. ;)

There are a lot of resources out there, A couple of my favorites are SCORE, service core of retired executives. Local chapters match up mentors with newbies that have experience in the same or similar field. Look them up. Try talking with a successful photographer. The SBA, small business administration, offers classes and info on making business plans, obtaining loans... Ask around at the local university extension, or technical college. Talk with a photography instructor. Allright then, get going!!