Unleash Your Creative Potential: A Comprehensive Guide to Launching a Successful Photography Side Business
STARTING A PHOTOGRAPHY SIDE HUSTLE
By Marc Andre
Looking to make some extra cash from your passion for photography? If you’ve got the skills and a decent camera, then starting a photography side gig could be for you. Here’s how you can turn your favourite hobby into a way to earn some money.
WHY PHOTOGRAPHY?
1. You Might Already Have The Skills: A big chunk of us are pretty good at taking high-quality pics.
2. People Hire Part-Timers: Loads of photographers work part-time, so finding gigs is doable.
3. Diverse ways of Making Money: You can offer different photo services or even make money without a single client.
4. Minimal Investment: With a fine camera and basic editing software, you’re good to go.
5. It’s Fun: Earn while doing something you love!
START YOUR SIDE HUSTLE
Start with simpler portraits such as families, children, or business headshots, avoiding complex gigs like weddings till you’re ready. Now, here’s what you’ll need:
1. Photography Skills: Understand the basics of exposure, aperture, shutter speed, ISO, and composition.
2. A Camera: While you’ll need more than a phone camera, you don’t need to break the bank.
3. Photo Editing Software: Tools like Adobe’s Lightroom and Photoshop will help you produce professional-looking pictures.
4. Places to Photograph: Parks and gardens make fab locations for outdoor shoots. Check to see if commercial photography is allowed before you start.
5. Portfolio Website: Your own site is essential to showcase your work and attract clients. Squarespace offers affordable and good-looking options.
6. Social Media Profiles: Platforms like Facebook and Instagram are great for promoting your services and connecting with potential clients.
FINDING CLIENTS
1. Networking: Start by letting your friends, family and colleagues know about your new venture.
2. Classifieds and Bulletin Boards: Create an advertisement on Craigslist or local bulletins.
3. Social Media Marketing: Use your various profiles to promote your services and share your work.
4. Barter: Offer your photography in exchange for goods or services to help build your portfolio.
5. Referrals: Ask happy clients to spread the word!
6. Outreach: Contact potential clients directly, introducing yourself and your services.
PRICING
Decide on your hourly rate, consider the project’s time and expenses, and keep your rates competitive with other local photographers. Initially, you might charge less to attract clients, but raise your rates as you make a name for yourself.
ALTERNATIVES TO CLIENT PHOTOGRAPHY
1. Stock Photography: You can contribute to stock photo websites, or sell prints of your photos online through your website, Etsy, or Fine Art America.
2. Blogging/YouTube Channel: Share your passion with a broader audience, and make money through ads, affiliate marketing or selling products and courses.
3. Freelance Writing: Write blog posts or articles about photography.
4. Online Course or E-Book: Share your expertise by teaching others.
5. Workshops or Photo Tours: If you love traveling, consider leading photography tours.
6. Real Estate Photography: A potential area of specialization that doesn’t rely on portraits.
POTENTIAL EARNINGS
The amount you can earn from a photography side gig depends on the business you start, the time and effort you put in, and your skills. But with dedication, earning a full-time income can certainly be done.
SUMMARY
Starting a photography side business could be a rewarding way to make extra money, especially if you’re passionate about photography. Depending on your skills, interests, and determination, it might even grow into a full-time business.
Note: Contains links from sponsors.
