If you’re looking for ways to make extra cash, why not consider trying your hand at photography? Deciding to become a professional photographer can be both rewarding and profitable, and you can do it all from the comforts of your home. But, to get started, you’ll need to invest in some new gear and learn how to use it effectively. Luckily, we’ve got you covered on this front. Below, we’ll discuss the various ways you can make money online selling photos – and which one you should pursue based on your skillset.
Selling Stock Photos Online
One of the simplest and most popular ways to make money online is to sell your photos for other people to use in their blogs, websites, and presentations. Stock photography is heavily used throughout the web and can be found in big-name websites like Google, Microsoft, and Twitter, simply to name a few. If you have a good eye for photography and can quickly learn how to use the various software programs available for stock photography, then this could be a profitable venture for you.
Become An Agent For Getty Images
One of the most popular stock photography agencies, Getty Images, operates a worldwide network of royalty-free stock photo agencies that collectively represent hundreds of thousands of images. If you’re looking to sell photos online, then working as an agent for Getty Images can be a lucrative opportunity. As an agent, you’ll be responsible for generating sales on behalf of the stock photo agency for as long as you remain a loyal and productive employee. For more information, check out this job description from Getty.
Sell Custom Images And Packages Of Stocks
While Getty Images focuses primarily on selling stock, other stock photography companies operate networks of photographers that can be engaged for specific projects. Perhaps the most popular of these agencies is Shutterstock, which offers a variety of both stock and custom-made images that you can choose to sell. If you’re looking to create unique pieces of work and want to be able to sell your photos online, then consider this option.
Become A Freelancer
If none of the above options seem like a fit, then you can always try your hand at freelancing. The internet has created a world of opportunities for photographers looking to make money online, and there are countless ways you can take on a project and make a profit. From online photography galleries where you can showcase and sell your work to marketing firms who hire professional photographers to promote their products, the freelancing world is vast and profitable. For additional information, check out this course taught by Jeremy Scott, which walks you through the step-by-step process of turning your creativity into a profitable business – from brainstorming ideas to finding clients to finally packaging and shipping your work.
Create Your Own Website
Of course, there’s also the option of creating your own website. The beauty of a website is that you can use your own design and copy to format it how you see fit. Depending on your skillset, you could design a simple but effective website for free with WordPress or Shopify, get a premium design for a cheap price, or find a talented freelance designer to work with on your project. Creating a website is an excellent way to showcase your work and attract potential clients who may need a photographer for a specific event or product shoot.
Get A Blog
Blogs are one of the most popular and effective ways to make money online. The opportunity to make money from a blog is very appealing to creative and talented individuals who can take advantage of the traffic that blogs can bring in. For those looking to create a business around selling photos online, a blog may be the perfect place to do so. You can find free blogs through platforms like Blogger or WordPress, or you can purchase a domain and set up a blog on your own. For additional information, check out this detailed guide on how to start a blog.
The Many Ways To Profitably Sell Photos
So, what are the various ways you can make money from selling photos? While the above options may seem like a money-maker-in-name-only, there are numerous ways you can actually turn a profit from your photography skills. To name a few:
- Selling stock photos through online subscription packs
- Creating videos for businesses to use in marketing materials
- Selling customized images for business and individuals to use on social media
- Working for brands and businesses as an agency photographer
- Creating unique images for business cards, flyers, and websites
- Creating posters to hang in businesses, cafés, and homes
- Selling mobile phone photography to individuals and businesses
- Selling your photography to magazine and newspaper publishers
- Taking on personal commissions
- And the list goes on
How to Make Money Online Selling Photos
So, you’ve decided to try your hand at photography. Great! To get started, it’s important to familiarize yourself with some basic gear and software. From there, you can dive into the world of professional photography and reap the financial benefits. If you’re looking to make extra cash, then selling your photos online might be the right fit for you. To get started, simply follow the above steps.