So, I don't have a ton of experience yet. I'm slowly building my portfolio and I don't do a great deal of advertising. I have done a few cakes for our church at baby showers, etc. I have also done some for close family. I want/need some more experience but for instance my church is used to NOT paying me for the cakes. How/when do I make the gradual transition to charging OR what is an adequate portfolio to feel like I CAN charge. How many cakes do you have to make to feel comfortable charging most people?

I would say as long as you are a legal business your cakes are good enough to charge. The cakes in your album look great! I'm by no means a pro but I have looked at lots of cake. You have made lots of progress. Be careful about who expects free cakes.

I'm going to say the obvious... when you satisfy you health department requirements.

You could use the food registration thing as your reason to start charging, in fact its a perfect excuse..."You're after a cake? that's great!...I'm pleased to be registered & licensed to sell cakes now, so let me know what you're after and I'll be happy to quote a price for you." or something along those lines - you get the idea (and so will they!)

I like the previous posters response and since you say that you are not too experience (although you're pics look great!) then you could also add: Since you guys have been so supportive, I'm also gonna throw in a family and friends discount (doesn't have to be a major discount!). HTH
Fedra