How To Make Money From Photography

By: Sharee Sylvan

Break Studios Contributing Writer

Learning how to make money from photography can be fun. If you already like taking pictures, you are well on your way. Parlaying a hobby into a stream of income is a great way to have fun and still be able to pay your bills. Try just a few of these ideas and you are sure to be on your way to making money from photography.

  1. Special Occasions. Being the photographer at special events is a good way to make money from photography. There is always a need for photographers at weddings, birthday parties, and other special events.
  2. Sell photos to newspapers and magazines. Your best bet are pictures that are informative, controversial, amusing or bizarre. If it can strike up discussion or is just plain odd, chances are you've got a great news worthy photo.
  3. Enter a photo contest. A photo contest can be fun. You can also make money if you win. Generally, there are several prizes that are offered and you may have to take pictures of specific subjects, such as a baby or a mountain. The payoff is usually cash. Also, you get to have your work on display and you can add the winning photograph and title to your marketing campaign, if you have one.
  4. Sell online stock photos. There is always a need for Internet stock photos. A need equals an opportunity to make money from photography. Almost any type of generic photo you can think of will be a good stock photo. It is best to diversify your online stock photo portfolio. Each customer will have different needs. For example, if you only supply nature pictures, you may lose a sale from a customer in need of a generic teddy bear.
  5. Pet photos. It's no surprise that pet owners really love their pets. In fact, some people treat their pets as a member of the family. Taking pictures for of pets in your neighborhood is an easy way to make money from photography. You can even visit a park to find potential customers and their pets.
  6. Take photos of newborns. Parents love taking pictures of their newborn. It allows them to share photos of their child with friends and family as well as help them to capture memories. Offering newborn baby photography is a lucrative way to make money with photography.
  7. Offer photo products. Offering postcards, holiday calendars and other products can help you make money from photography. Customers can get a photograph that they love and send it to family members for Christmas. You can attract more customers by offering products with their picture on it. These items are especially popular during the holiday season.
Posted on: Sep. 19, 2010