How to make money with photography

Photography is a kind of art, and like many other arts, someone with a lot of passion with it can become a successful pro. Creativity may be the key, but there are also other factors to capture the perfect photos. It's about the scenery, the quality of the camera, extra equipment, the budget. And all these are translated into money. And to invest money you must already have, or have to gain some revenues from it.

So let's start with the top ways to make money as a photographer.

1. Sell your photos through photography stock sites.

This first option has become very popular the last years, as many people have their own high resolution cameras and shoot a countless number of pictures, they make their pocket money through sites like ShutterStock, iStock, and Adobe Stock(the old famous Fotolia). It is not an easy task to make a lot and you will not become a new photography star in one night, but with the right tools waiting ready for you and albums full of high quality photos, you can start selling them.


2. Photoshooting your Clients

Another way to make money, but in a more direct way, is by doing photoshootings for people who want to make their own personal albums. This method is also famous, as more and more want to have and upload crystal-clear photos with high resolution on their personal accounts in social media. Like Instagram. This works ideally if you have your own studio, but shooting in eye-catching sceneries or using different backgrounds can be a better option. And of course cheaper.


3. Join Photo Contests

The only thing you have to do is to...believe. It's ok if you don't win any contest, but don't forget that there is also a chance to win! You may have great albums or big ideas, but it's not enough. You need to try, gain some experience by competing other photographers and have a look what others photograph, how, when, new techniques. Don't forget the exposure you gain and the opportunities you may have to collaborate and get more socially active.


4. Offer Wedding Photography Services

You don't necessarily have to start a wedding photography business. Start with offering your services to friends and relatives, or try to contact clients who may be interested. This kind of photography is particularly profitable, but not very creative, as it's a very specific topic. Have also in mind that you have to have top-of-the-line equipment at your disposal, so you can fulfill the high demands of a wedding. In general, it's a good way to make money.


5.Photoblog and Youtube

Blogging is a very common way to create and make money for free online. You can create your own blog for free with Blogger or Wordpress, and upload articles and photos, promote your albums from stock sites and offer your advice and tips about photography. You can also create videos and upload them to YouTube, as many others are trying to find and watch tutorials and guides online. Bloggers and Youtubers make money from advertisements and sponsored content.


6. Become full-time photographer

That's the final and more standard way to have a salary. Try to find a job as a photographer or related to photography, have a contract and/or apply for other opportunities and projects so you can be sure and fully concetrated on something spesific.