Gary,
A good agent can help - alot -. BUT you have to make images that can
sell. Most name photographers have talent or sales agents, that way
they can shoot and make money. It is a rare person that can make good
money through and sell in commercial photography. The problem with
getting an agent is getting in the door, so it takes sending portfolios
to several before you find one that feels that you are sellable. Most
handle more than one photographer, so you can often check on their
sales record. Worth their weight in gold.

Tom