Many of you out there may have your own photography business and already make money from your work but there are probably a large number of you who just take photos as a hobby or passion. If you do photography as a hobby, have you ever wondered how you could make a little (or a lot) of money with your photography?
We found this great article on Digital Photography School that we had to share with you today. If you are looking to make some money with your photos, here are 8 great ways that you may love!
1. Shoot Microstock
If you are great at taking commercial images, you may want to look at different microstock sites such as Shutterstock and iStock Photo. Commercial images are the types of photos that sell the most with these types of sites so by uploading the images you take, you may be able to make some money.
2. Be A Second Shooter
There are many times that a professional photographer may need help from a second shooter for a specific project. Perhaps they are photographing a large wedding or they are working a sporting event or project where having a second shooter will be helpful. The best way to find these jobs is by networking and meeting other photographers. Opportunities tend to arise through relationships.
Photo credit: Olly Stabler; his first photo to make it print
3. Sell Prints
Selling prints is a great way to make money with your photography and there are many different ways to do so. You can choose framed copies for larger amounts of money, you could print on canvases or even do prints on their own for those customers who want to spend less.
When you sell prints, you should also make it a point to purchase some of your best work to display in your studio or to show when you meet with clients. Showing what type of work you do and the prints that you offer is a great way to upsell as well which in turn makes you more money if that is what you are trying to do.
4. Write and Sell An eBook
If you are very passionate about your photography experiences and love to share your own tips and tricks for your trade, creating an eBook would be a great option for you! Of course writing an eBook will take up time in the writing and creating phase but it will help you make a name for yourself within the photography industry.
5. Have a Portrait Party
Just like any type of party, invite friends, media, colleagues and possible clients to your studio and tell everyone to bring friends. Take portraits of people all evening and have some fun entertainment and food. During the party, you can show the photos you have taken and give them the option to buy their photographs or even book a session with you. You could even give out a few free prints to thank them for coming (which is also a great way to get the word out about the work you do). Getting more and more people to know about your business is the best way to result in more business. Word of mouth is so important!
Photo credit: Olly Stabler, headshot taken at his studio
6. Photograph in Nightclubs
Taking photos in nightclubs will help you learn a bunch of skills that you will need if you want to do hire paid and more complex jobs later on. If you are pretty new to photography and want to earn extra money and build up your skills at the same time, this is a great job for you! This will also help you build confidence because you will be forced to interact with lots of people all at the same time which is a very important quality of a photographer.
7. Enter Competitions
Photography competitions all offer various prizes. Try looking for competitions that offer a cash prize and enter as many of them as you an. If you take photos regularly, choose some of your best from your portfolio. Carve out an hour every day searching and submitting your work for these is a great way to begin. Just be sure to keep in mind that entering a competition does not guarantee a payout and can be an unpredictable way of making money.
8. Start A Photo Booth Service
A photo booth is very easy to operate and is a similar price to a full frame DSLR body and lens. With a photo booth, there are an unlimited amount of events and options available including parties, weddings, corporate events and more. Keep in mind that this option may not be the best for a new photographer as you really are limited with the artistic photo opportunities with having a photo booth, but, if your main goal is to make money, it could be an option.
Photo credit: Chris Guillebeau
Do you already have clients that you have photographed in the past but do not seem to come back to you for other photo sessions? You need to read this eBook "How To Make Money With The Clients You Already Have." In the book, you will learn how to gain loyal clients and exceed their expectations while staying on their radar. You will also learn how to make money around the holidays and read about some great marketing strategies that help you stand out from your competition.
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