If you’re looking for a side hustle to make some extra money, one of the first things you should do is think about your hobbies and the things you enjoy doing. Millions of people like to take pictures. It’s a great way to remember special moments in life. Are you interested in making money with photography? There are many ways to make money with photography, from selling your photos online to providing services for commercial photographers. Awesome, me too! This is the ultimate guide to making photography a lucrative side hustle” class=”wp-image-24249 float-end ms-1 mb-1″ decoding=”async” height=”450″ sizes=”(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px” src=”https://wp.atlasdiy.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/How-to-Make-Money-with-Photography-1.png” srcset=”https://wp.atlasdiy.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/How-to-Make-Money-with-Photography-1.png 600w, https://wp.atlasdiy.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/How-to-Make-Money-with-Photography-1-200×300.png 200w” width=”300″/>
Thanks to technology, the photography industry has changed a lot. New methods of capturing and presenting images are available every day. Digital photography has been a part of that. It has changed the way we take pictures. Along with digital photography, the quantity and quality of software has had an equal impact. Software has made photography more accessible to people of all skill levels by providing powerful tools to manipulate and enhance photographs.
The introduction of the iPhone has made many more people into photographers. It is now easier than ever to take stunning photographs with minimal effort. The internet has increased the reach and visibility of photographers. Photographers are now able to share their work with a larger audience.
All of these changes mean that there are more people interested in photography now than ever before.
That has had a negative impact on the industry. The decline in tourism has resulted in job losses and business closings. Professionals have a harder time finding work because so many people have good cameras and good skills that the pros aren’t always needed. Professionals need to find new ways to stand out in order to remain competitive. Many companies have used full-time photographers in the past. The greater flexibility in terms of project scope and timelines is one of the reasons for this.
Making a full-time income as a photographer is hard, and I know of several excellent and experienced photographers who have jobs in other industries. The photographers rely on their passion for photography as a hobby and often take on other jobs to supplement their income.
Change Brings Opportunity
While not all of the changes in the industry are great for professionals, side hustlers can benefit from:
- Easier entry into the industry
- All of the new ways to make money thanks to the internet
- Millions of photographers buy all kinds of products. They have an eye for the perfect shot and are often passionate about photography.
About six years ago, I decided to try to make some money from the hobby so I could spend more time doing it, and so I could justify paying for better quality gear. I achieved my goal of making photography a steady source of income by working hard to build my portfolio and network with other photographers and businesses. I have made more than one million dollars in the photography industry over the past six years. I plan to expand my photography business in the years to come, as I’m incredibly proud of the success I’ve had.
Some of the best ways to make money with photography are covered in this article. Whether you’re a professional photographer or just starting out, there are lots of ways to make money with photography. This isn’t an all-inclusive list, but it does cover the most popular methods, as well as those that should be of interest to anyone using photography as a side hustle. It’s important to remember that photography is an art form and that you should always strive to create images that you are proud of.
10 Best Ways to Make Money with Photography
You love photography and you love making money. You can combine the two by starting your own photography business. How can you make money using your photography, or at least work in the industry? There are some options here. The option that best suits you is available.
- Take Photos for Clients
- Photographing Events
- Selling Prints
- Stock Photos
- Selling Items
- Blog, YouTube Channel or Podcast
- Freelance Writing
- Ebooks & Courses
- Other Digital Product
- Workshops & Photo Tours
1. Taking Photos for Clients
One of the most common ways to make money as a photographer is to work for clients. This is often done with portraits. A portrait is a single image of a person. There are many different types of photography and portraits, including engagement, maternity, newborn, family, seniors, fashion, and more. Special moments, relationships and memories can be captured in photography.
A lot of photographers do different types of portraits. Whatever style of photography you’re looking for, there’s likely someone who can do it. Specializing can be very effective in an industry that is very competitive. While full-time professionals offer these types of services, there are many side-hustling part-time photographers that offer client sessions as well. With the increasing availability of online booking options, amateur and professional photographers alike can easily market their services and connect with potential clients.
There are different packages that most photographers offer to make it convenient for clients. To help ensure that clients have an enjoyable experience, many photographers will provide detailed information about the shoot. My wife and I paid a friend of ours for a family photo session at a local park. The pictures turned out great. His package included a one-hour session and a For a flat fee, you can get a CD with at least 50 photos.
If you have a place to showcase your photos online, you can get clients. A website with an easy-to-navigate portfolio is essential to showcase your work and attract potential clients. This can be found on your own website, as well as on Facebook. After a client session, you can post some of the best photos to Facebook and tag the client. If you want to increase the visibility of your work, you need to include the # of your business. You can get business from friends of your client if you include a link to your site or contact information. Including a link to your site or contact information is a great way to ensure that your client’s friends have easy access to you and your services should they need them.
Pros
- Excellent option for part-time work (flexible scheduling)
- Potential to earn a good rate for your time
- Word-of-mouth leads to more business
- A lot of opportunities for specializing and branding yourself
Cons
- A lot of competition
- Dealing with (some) clients can be challenging
2. Photographing Events
One of the more lucrative ways to make money in the industry is to photograph weddings. A wedding photo package from a professional photographer is not cheap. The investment is worth it to capture the memories of your special day. There is a lot of opportunity if you are doing photography as a side hustle. If you work hard and hone your craft, you can make a good living. It is possible to charge a reasonable rate and still be a bargain. It will help you to stand out from the crowd and attract more customers.
We hired a part-time photographer for our wedding. He did a great job of capturing the special moments of our day. She did a good job at a fraction of what we would have paid a professional, and she still made a good amount of money for a few hours of work.
Additional things like engagement photo sessions, save-the-date cards, custom invitations, photo albums, and more can be included in a wedding photographer’s package. If you want to maximize your income as a wedding photographer, you can create packages that offer a variety of services and products. You can make more money if you land more clients. It allows you to create a sustainable business model and ensure that any temporary downturns in one area are balanced out by gains in another.
Wedding photography can be a great opportunity, but there are some things you need to consider before getting into it. It’s important to think about the type of photography you’re interested in, as well as the time commitment and potential profits associated with wedding photography. Some pressure comes with photographing the biggest day of your clients life. Take the time to get to know your clients before the big day so you can create the best photos possible. You only have a limited amount of time to get the photos right.
There are horror stories about bad memory cards that ruin the day. The chances of these issues occurring can be reduced by taking the time to format and test your memory cards. Lawsuits have arisen from situations like this. Legal action should always be a last resort. You should get some experience in other forms of photography before you attempt a wedding. It’s important to understand the unique challenges that come with wedding photography, and having a strong foundation in other areas of photography will give you the knowledge needed to be successful.
There are other types of events that you can photograph. Birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, and more are some of the events that can be captured with a camera. Birthdays, corporate events, concerts, and other types of events present opportunities as well. Networking opportunities can be provided by these events.
Pros
- Good income potential
- Many events will be in the evenings or on weekends, which is ideal for most side hustlers
Cons
- There’s a lot of pressure and little room for mistakes
- Probably not the best option for new photographers
3. Selling Prints
There are different ways to sell prints. If you are taking portraits for clients, you could offer packages that include specific numbers of photo prints in different sizes. Digital copies of the photos can be purchased by clients for their own printing needs.
Most clients want to get the digital photos and have the right to print them whenever and wherever they want. They can choose to have the photos printed on canvas or metal for a unique look. It is a standard practice for photographers to charge a premium for clients to get the digital photos and the rights. Before committing to a photography session, it’s important to discuss pricing and rights with the photographer.
Most side-hustling photographers are different from most pros. Side-hustling photographers are willing to go the extra mile to help clients achieve their goals. A higher priced package for the digital photos and the rights is offered by professionals. This allows them to provide a better price for the customer who wants just prints and a better return on investment for the professional.
Many side hustlers give their clients digital photos and the right to print whatever they want. Many side hustlers offer additional services such as creating albums to help preserve the memories of special events. Part-time photographers offer prices that are much lower than professionals. It’s easier to get quality photos without breaking the bank when part-time photographers offer discounted packages.
You can make some money selling prints to your clients, but the average part-time photographer isn’t able to get a significant markup, so many decisions that it’s easier just to offer a Digital photos can be used instead of CD or DVD. This way, you can keep the photos safe and have a physical copy that you can look at again and again; plus, you can share the CD or DVD with family and friends.
Selling Landscape, Fine Art, or Travel Prints
The approach of selling art is the other option for selling prints. Setting up an online store, attending art shows, or partnering with local businesses can be done. Many landscape and travel photographers make a portion of their income by selling prints on their website or in person at flea markets and other events. Some photographers make additional income by teaching others about the craft of landscape and travel photography. Some photographers can get their photos into art galleries. This can open the door to other opportunities within the industry, as it is a milestone in their careers.
Fine art prints can sell for very good prices, so you don’t need to make a lot of sales in order for it to add up. This makes selling these types of prints an excellent option for aspiring photographers looking to turn a profit from their work.
There are many talented landscape photographers. It is possible to stand out in a crowded field with the right eye and dedication. In my opinion, the best way to have success as a part-timer is to specialize in your local area and brand yourself. Building relationships with employers and potential customers in your area can help increase your success even further.
Ifyou live in Michigan, you could brand yourself as a “Michigan landscape photographer” rather than a “landscape photographer”. You can use your location to differentiate yourself in a crowded market and stand out. It could be more specific and focused on the Upper Peninsula. The Upper Peninsula of Michigan has a lot to offer, from outdoor activities to small-town charm.
If you live near a national park or other high-profile location, you could brand yourself there.
You should only include photos from the area that you specialize in on your portfolio website. Potential clients will understand your specific area of expertise if they know the type of work you do. It’s appropriate to use the words “Michigan” or “Upper Peninsula” on your site. It is possible to draw more attention to Michigan and the Upper Peninsula by using relevant keywords throughout your website. You can also use blog posts, a To brand yourself, you need a Facebook page and an IG account.
After a while, you may become known as a leading photographer in your area, and you will have a better chance to rank for searches like ” photos of Michigan”. You may be able to get your work published in magazines and newspapers, allowing you to reach a larger audience.
Your photo prints can be sold to people who want photos from your area. By offering discounts or packages to customers who purchase multiple prints, you can encourage even more sales.
Setting up this is easy. You will be able to use the system with ease once the technical setup is complete. You can create a website through companies like SmugMug and Zenfolio. Visitors to your website will be able to order prints directly from you, and they will receive them straight from the print lab. Customers will get exactly what they’re looking for when you offer a variety of sizes and finishes.
Pros
- Decent income potential, especially if you are selling larger prints
- Can work well in combination with other monetization methods
Cons
- Lots of competition
- You’re not likely to start making money quickly with this approach
4. How To Make Money With Photography Online (Stock Photos)
Stock photography is listed as an option in many articles about how to make money with photography. Photographers can earn royalties by uploading their photos to stock photography websites. Stock photography is a great option for side hustles or hobbies. Stock photography is a great option for people who want to make some extra money in their spare time. These articles usually make it seem like you can upload some of your photos to Deposit Photos, iStock, or other stock sites and start making passive income. Making money with stock photography websites is very difficult. Getting your photos accepted is competitive, and earning enough money to make a living from stock photography websites can be difficult.
Most of the photographers that do well with stock photography sites have huge portfolios that allow them to make a lot of sales. It takes dedication and hard work to be successful in this field, but with the right skill set, anyone can make a living as a stock photographer. Getting started with stock photography websites is difficult because your photos are likely to get buried beneath the millions of other photos that are already selling. Networking with other photographers can help you learn more about the process and increase your chances of success. I want to be realistic about the likelihood of actually making money with this method, because it doesn’t mean that it’s not an option you can or should pursue. It’s important to remember that earning a significant income from this approach is not guaranteed, even if you find success down the line.
It doesn’t need to take a lot of time to sell on stock photography sites. It has the potential to make some passive income. You will need to get approved by any marketplace where you want to sell, which usually involves uploading a few samples of your best photos. It is possible that you have the rights to sell the photos. You will be able to upload more if you get approved.
I highly recommend you try some of the other money-making methods covered in this article if you want to pursue this. It’s important to not rely solely on one method to make money, because no single method is guaranteed to make you money. Sales on stock photography sites can bring in a small amount of passive income for most photographers. Any decent stock photography site will require a signed model release from any models in your photos, so be sure to get one if you decide to pursue stock photography. Make sure you check with your local laws to make sure you are in compliance with any regulations regarding model releases and stock photography. You may need a property release to sell landscape or travel photos. Permission to use photographs of private property for commercial purposes is granted by a property release.
Pros
- Potential to make passive income
- Make money from the photos you already have
Cons
- Incredibly competitive
- Established photographers control most of the market
- Most stock sites pay photographers very small amounts per sale
- Not likely to produce a significant amount of money
5. Selling Items
There are many items and products you can sell that feature your photos. You can use your own custom products to showcase your photos. A lot of these things will make you a small profit, but it can add up. It may be helpful to create a budget and track your expenses so you know how much you spend on materials. Rather than relying on this method alone, my recommendation would be to use this in combination with other methods. This way, you can make sure your business is doing well.
There are many options, including calendars, postcards, magnets, mugs, and more. You can add your own artwork to any of these items. Print labs like Bay Photo will offer some of these things, and print-on-demand sites like CafePress offer many products.
Pros
- Good supplement to other ways of making money with your photos
- A lot of different possibilities
Cons
- Usually a small profit on each product
- It’s unlikely that you’ll make significant money with these types of products
6. Blog, YouTube Channel, or Podcast
One way to make money with photography without actually taking photos for clients or selling your photos is to start a photography website. There are a lot of photography websites. It can be difficult to make a new photography blog stand out. There are millions of people who read photography blogs. The possibilities are endless for those who want to pursue a career in photography.
A number of popular photography websites have been around for a long time. A great source of inspiration and information for photographers of all levels can be found on these blogs. Pick a specific type of photography that you want to specialize in. You will gain the expertise you need to be successful in the industry by building a strong foundation.
If you want to focus on specific gear or equipment, you could start a blog on drone photography, travel photography, street photography, wildlife photography, landscape photography, sports photography, wedding photography, camera and lens reviews, post processing, or focus on specific gear or equipment. It’s possible to create content around interviews with well-known photographers and how to take better photos. Specializing will allow you to stand out, be memorable, and rank for searches related to your topic.
See Grant’s article How to Start a More guidance can be found in the Make Money blog. To explore more topics and find helpful tips to make money on the internet, you can check out our archives.
As a blogger you can make money in several different ways like:
- Display ads
- Affiliate marketing
- Selling your own products (physical or digital)
- Publishing sponsored content
- Offering premium content or membership
It takes time and dedication to build a successful blog, but the long-term payoff can be huge. I’ve been blogging full-time for more than 10 years.
It turned into a full-time income in about a year and a half after starting as a side hustle. It has become a successful career for me as I took the chance and invested in my side hustle. A number of popular channels are related to photography. There are channels that give instructions, tips, and reviews of photography equipment. Some of them are part of a website and some of them are not. Some of the articles are short and concise, while others are longer and more detailed.
You can find channels that focus on gear review, specific types of photography, and others that specialize in post-processing with software. You are sure to find something helpful on these channels.
YouTubers make money through:
- Google/YouTube’s ad platform
- Direct sponsors
- Affiliate marketing
- Selling their own products or courses
In the past few years, the popularity of photography-related YouTube channels has increased. Many successful YouTubers have built their channels around photography and have gained large followings of avid viewers. Photographers like Thomas Heaton have used the platform very well.
Starting a podcast is another option. Although photography is a very visual subject, there are a number of popular podcasts in the industry. Topics discussed include photography tips and tricks, equipment reviews, interviews with professional photographers, and much more. If you wanted to combine a blog and a podcast, you could. You could make money by selling products or by giving exclusive content to subscribers.
Pros
- High income potential and possibility for long-term growth
- Several different ways to make money
- Good side hustle that allows for a flexible schedule
- Lots of possible topics to cover
Cons
- You’re unlikely to make money for several months, or even a year
- It’s possible you could devote a lot of time and never make money
- You’ll need to create something new or different in order to stand out
7. Freelance Writing
There is a lot of work available for writers who want to write about photography. Figuring out how to collaborate with photographers and help them promote their work is one of the things that Figuring out how to collaborate with photographers and help them promote their work is one of the things that Figuring out how to collaborate with photographers and help them promote their work is one of the There are many publications that pay writers. It is possible to make money while doing something you love. If you enjoy photography and writing but don’t want to start your own website, you can be a writer. While making money as a writer, you can still pursue your interests.
Even if you do start your own blog, freelancing can allow you to make some money while you’re working to grow your own blog. Several different writers have been hired by me over the years. I’m always looking for new ways to expand my website. Some of them did photography on the side of a full-time job. Some of them were professional photographers who did photography as their main source of income.
If you want to land some freelance writing opportunities I would suggest starting your own blog so you can have some writing and photo samples to submit to other blogs when you’re looking for work.
You may find some opportunities on the job boards, but it would be better if you contacted the editors about your interest in writing for them. To ensure the best chance of success, it is important to tailor your pitch to each potential employer and provide examples of your work. Some websites will have a page with information about how to contact them. You can still reach out and express an interest in contributing if others don’t have that information on their site. Before you reach out to the organization, be sure to do your research and make sure it’s a good fit for you.
You can reach out to many different travel blogs about writing for them if you do travel or landscape photography. If you want to get more exposure for your work, you can submit it to photo contests. It’s one of the best options on the list. It gives you the flexibility to work when and where you please, as well as the chance to choose your own projects. You can use it as a complement to other methods of making money with photography. It is possible to make money doing something you love.
Depending on the publications you write for, you may be able to gain valuable connections and build name recognition. Future opportunities, such as speaking engagements or even job offers, can be helped by these connections and recognition.
Pros
- Start making money quickly
- Potential to get paid well
- Very flexible working hours
- Good for building name recognition in the industry
Cons
- Lower-income potential as compared to starting your own blog
- You may need some experience to write for bigger publications
8. Ebooks & Courses
Remember when I saidthat the increase in popularity of photography has opened up a lot of new possibilities? Now, more than ever, photography is accessible to those who are willing to learn and take advantage of the resources available. This is one of them. There are many more interesting stories out there. Many of the people who are hobby photographers are willing to pay to learn and improve their skills. They strive to make the perfect shot, and take inspiration from professionals.
The potential audience for photography educators has exploded in the past few years. This has given photographers an opportunity to reach more people.
The increase in the number of photographers has made it possible to make money in other ways. Building businesses that offer photography-related services is one of the ways.
At one of my old photography blogs (I no longer own it), I used to interview people. It was rare for a photographer to have a formal education in art or photography. The most stunning images were created by the photographers who had formal education and training. Books, online courses, a mentor, and lots of practice are some of the things most learned from.
Thousands of people are paying for online training in photography. Many photographers have written books or created online courses. Many of these photographers hope to inspire others to pursue a career in photography by sharing their knowledge and experiences.
This isn’t the best money-making opportunity if you are new to photography, but for the right person, it can be an incredible opportunity. For experienced photographers, this could be a great way to make some extra money. Even if you are not a pro, there are some ways to create an ebook. You could create a post processing ebook if you are new to photography. Sharing your knowledge and experience with others who are interested in learning more about post processing in photography would be a great way to do that.
You could make a book. You could use this guide to plan your trip. I bought an ebook that was a guide to all of the best spots to photograph in the park before I went there last year. The purchase gave me a lot of helpful tips and amazing photos that I would have missed out on if I had not made the purchase. The book I bought covered the gear used for landscape photography.
Even if you aren’t the world’s greatest photographer, you can still create educational products. Even without professional photography skills, it can be easy to create educational products. Another option is to focus on improving your skills now and make money by doing client work or starting a blog, and later move on to ebooks or courses when you are ready. It is possible to gain the knowledge and confidence needed to be successful in the future.
Pros
- Very high-income potential
- Audience that continues to grow
- Lots of possibilities
Cons
- Probably not the best option if you’re just getting started
- Involves a lot of work without a guaranteed payoff
9. Other Digital Product
Ebooks and courses can be used to sell other types of digital products. There are plenty of different downloadable products being sold in the photography industry including:
- Card templates
- Photo book templates
- Decorative photo overlays
- Software and add-ons
- Photoshop actions
- Lightroom presets
- Logo templates for photographers
- Marketing material templates
You don’t need to be a professional photographer to create these types of products.
Outsourcing product creation is something that can be done easily with sites like Upwork. Most of the money I made in the photography industry was through the sales of digital products. I used to grow email lists and attract traffic. To maximize my return on investment, I monitored the performance of my campaigns. And I also sold my products on third-party sites like Creative Market and Etsy.
Pros
- You don’t need to be a pro (outsource the work)
- Good income potential
- Potential for passive income
Cons
- Outsourcing the work requires an investment
- There’s a lot of competition for some of these types of products
- Establishing your own site and audience takes time
10. Workshops and Photo Tours
Many photographers make money by leading photography tours and workshops. The tours and workshops give photographers an opportunity to make money while sharing their knowledge and passion for photography. This is common with travel, landscape, and wildlife photography, but it can work with other specialties as well. Incorporating a sense of motion into your shots can help create something truly unique. There are many people who are willing to pay for quality instruction with so many people interested in improving their skills. There are more courses and workshops available for those who want to learn more about photography.
A majority of photo tours involve a guide leading participants to subjects of interest. Additionally, they can provide an opportunity to gain experience with your camera and explore a new location. More hands-on photography instruction and guidance can be found in other workshops. If you want to learn more about photography and take your knowledge to the next level, these workshops are 888-739-5110 888-739-5110 888-739-5110 888-739-5110 888-739-5110 888-739-5110 888-739-5110 888-739-5110 is 888-739-5110 888-739-5110 888-739-5110 888-739-5110 888-739-5110 888-739-5110 888-739-5110 888-739-5110 888-739-5110 888-739-5110 888-739-5110 888-739-5110 888-739-5110 888-739-5110 888-739-5110 888-739-5110 888-739-5110 888-739-5110 888-739-5110 888-739-5110 888-739-5110 888-739-5110 888-739-5110 888-739-5110 888-739-5110 888-739-5110 888-739-5110 888-739-5110 888-739-5110
One-on-one sessions are also offered by some photographers. I have paid a photographer for two different one-on-one workshops. The experience gave me a new appreciation for photography. It was worth the money and I loved it. If you are looking for a unique and unforgettable adventure, I would highly recommend this experience.
If you live in an area with beautiful scenery, this could be a great option. Taking a hike is a great way to get some exercise while admiring the scenery. Although it is not the best option for a side hustle, many photographers travel to other locations to lead workshops.
I know a few people who have full-time jobs in other industries who have led tours and workshops while also being full-time photographers. It shows that it is possible to make money doing something you love without having to quit your day job.
Make sure you have your legal bases covered before you offer tours or workshops. If you want to be compliant with all applicable laws and regulations, you need to consult a lawyer or other professional. If you want your clients to sign a Waiver of Liability, you need an attorney to draft it. A permit is required to lead a commercial tour or workshop in some locations. When leading a tour or workshop, it is important to research the local laws and regulations to make sure you are in compliance.
Pros
- Good income potential
- Plenty of demand
- Great opportunity if you live in an area known for its scenery
Cons
- More ideal for an established photographer than a hobbyist
- Potential for legal responsibility and liability
Putting it Into Action
It is time to take action after we covered 10 different ways you can make money in the photography industry.
You can see how pros and cons match up with your situation, skills, and long-term goals by thinking about the possibilities. You can make an informed choice if you take the time to research and explore each option.
You might want to use a few of the different methods. If you want to add another method after you have had some success with the first one, I would recommend starting with just one. You can gain a better understanding of which method works best for you.
If you have experience making money with photography, please let us know in the comments. I’d love to hear how other photographers are doing.
The author has been a full-time writer since 2008 and is currently writing in finance, photography, and web design. He has written hundreds of articles and published several books. In 2018 he launched the personal finance blog Vital Dollar, where he writes about ways to save money and ways to make money.
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