How to make money as a photographer

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Here’s a few proven ways to make money as a photographer/videographer who’s just starting out! A lot of these below helped me build a portfolio, charge for my work and some of these I still use today to create a passive income stream for my business.

As a beginner photographer, making money might seem challenging, but there are several ways you can start monetizing your skills and building your photography business. Here are some beginner-friendly ways to make money as a photographer:

  • Offer Portrait Sessions: Start by offering portrait photography services to friends, family, and acquaintances. This could include individual portraits, couple sessions, family photos, or even pet photography. Charging a nominal fee or offering special introductory rates can help attract your first clients and build your portfolio. Better yet, book a few on the same day to maximize your revenue. Example: If you’d normally charge $200 for portraits, could you offer it at a discounted rate of $150, and just put through 2 people during the time it is. So you’d have someone changing outfits while taking photos of the other person. A best practice that has helped me maximize the revenue coming in!

  • Participate in Events: Look for local events or community gatherings where you can take photos. Events like festivals, fairs, and sports competitions often require photographers to capture the moments. Offer your services to event organizers or set up a booth to sell prints on-site. The key for this strategy is having multiple points of contact for people to see your work. Either a large QR code in your booth that goes to a special promo rate, or something that gives the potential to convert sales with participation in an event.

  • Sell Prints Online: Create an online store or use print-on-demand platforms to sell your photographs as prints, posters, or other merchandise. Websites like Etsy, Fine Art America, and Redbubble allow you to reach a broader audience without investing in inventory. Many website builders have a commerce section or utilizing the ‘shop’ feature on Instagram/Facebook can lead to sales in an online format.

  • Freelance for Local Businesses: Approach local businesses like restaurants, cafes, or boutiques, and offer your photography services. They might need professional images of their products, interiors, or events for marketing purposes. Offering an intro rate or even finding places that you know the person in charge, maybe they will let you shoot a free teaser or add assets to your portfolio in exchange for giving them work. This is a great way to add to your portfolio of a professional business that gives future prospects an idea of the work you can deliver on.

  • Real Estate Photography: Collaborate with real estate agents to photograph properties for listings. While you may start with smaller properties, this can be a stepping stone to more significant opportunities as you gain experience.

  • Second Shooter for Weddings: Reach out to established wedding photographers and offer your assistance as a second shooter. This provides an opportunity to learn from experienced professionals while earning some money.

  • Content Creation for Social Media Influencers: Many social media influencers and bloggers require high-quality photos for their content. Offer your services to help them create eye-catching visuals for their online presence. This is a great asset to any influencer as they need high quality content regularly. Build a package to ensure you get paid regularly for the work you’re doing for them!

  • Photography Classes and Workshops: Share your knowledge and passion for photography by offering beginner-level photography classes or workshops in your local community. You can charge a fee for these sessions and provide valuable insights to aspiring photographers. After you do it a couple times, you can even offer a digital version of it. ;)

  • Stock Photography: Start building your portfolio of stock images and submit them to stock photography websites. While the earnings per download might be modest, it can be a passive income stream in the long run.

  • Collaborate with Local Artists: Reach out to painters, illustrators, or other artists and propose collaboration projects. Your photography could complement their artwork or be used as references for their creations.

  • Photograph Local Businesses and Events for Marketing: Approach small businesses and offer your services to create marketing materials like brochures, flyers, or website images.

  • Sell Smartphone Photography Courses: If you're skilled in smartphone photography, create and sell online courses or eBooks that teach others how to take great pictures with their phones.

Remember, as a beginner, focus on building your portfolio, gaining experience, and refining your skills. It’s about playing the long game, establish relationships and become known for your work - it takes time!

Networking and promoting your work through social media and a website can help you attract clients and opportunities. These are all free opportunities that just take your time and can have a huge payoff for you.

Be patient and persistent, as success in the photography business takes a lot time. and dedication. With passion and determination, you can turn your hobby into a rewarding source of income. Got any questions? Reach on out and say HELLO to @sparkcreativeco on Instagram!