Photography can be fun. From snapping away on friends and family trips to just social media selfies. But it can also be quite lucrative and here’s five ways how!
1. Street photography
During my visit to Brazil, I went to Sao Paulo and stumbled upon ‘Batman Alley,’ a side street filled with street art murals. I met another photographer there who turned this location into her office and source of revenue. She takes professional, high-quality photography shots of visitors next to the murals and offers them the photos for download through a link (e.g., https://wetransfer.com). Payment is accepted through a portable card reader. You can explore similar opportunities in local tourist areas or places with natural beauty.
2. Event Photography
Offer your photography services to event organizers for weddings, birthday parties, corporate events, public gatherings, music festivals, and more. Building a strong brand around your services can lead to a great source of income. Event photography offers flexibility in working hours and allows you to have more control over your work schedule.
3. Sell Your Photos As Prints
Invest in a good quality printer to produce high-quality prints. Choose professional quality papers that can last 100 years for home display. Consider framing your photos, and you can either find a local framer or an online framer in your country. You can also use online print-on-demand sites to avoid keeping stock on hand. Website providers like Squarespace and Shopify allow you to track your inventory in their e-commerce backend.
4. Teach Photography
Share your photography knowledge by offering one-to-one tuition classes or organizing group workshops. You can also create online courses to reach a wider audience and have more flexibility. Teaching photography can be a rewarding way to earn income and help others learn valuable skills and tips.
5. Sell Photos To Magazines And Publications
Research magazines and publications to understand what kind of photos they are looking for. Submit five or six good quality photos that fit their style and subject matter. The average fee for a magazine’s photography is $50-$200, but it can vary depending on the publication. Make sure to meet their submission requirements and consider whether the exposure gained from publication could lead to further opportunities.
Enter Photo Competitions
Participate in photo competitions for a chance to win cash prizes and gain exposure. Competitions offer the opportunity to receive feedback from experts in the field, helping you improve your skills. Winning or being shortlisted in competitions can lead to widespread press coverage, books, or exhibitions, exposing your work to a larger audience and potential clients.
