Many photographers dream of a time where their passion can become something that eventually makes them a living. For most, this may never be the case. However, a small percentage of photographers do make the transition from hobbyist to professional. It usually takes a lot of hard work, as well as a large slice of luck, in order to do so. Thankfully, there are some methods you can apply to make money from your photography. We explore some of the top tips, below.
1. Start Building your Portfolio
Perhaps the best way to start on the road to monetizing your photography is to build your portfolio of work. Of course, this can be tricky if you live in a city that doesn’t have a lot of modelling agencies or professional models. However, don’t let this dissuade you. Find anyone or anything that can act as a subject. They don’t have to be a professional model; ask a friend or relative and take some portraits of them to show off your skill.
2. Know the Business
Unfortunately, being able to take good pictures often isn’t enough to start selling your work. You need to have an idea of how business works, and particularly how photography businesses operate. People won’t contact you out of the blue asking you to work. Have an idea of what you’ll need to do in order to be a business/freelancer that people want to employ.
Make a PDF for your services. If you get an inquiry about your services, you’ll want to give your potential clients a professional and clear rundown of your services. It’s best to have this in advance. The same goes for giving examples of your work. Some clients will want to see extensive shoots, while others will only want to see highlights.
3. Market Yourself
Half of the battle of getting paid for your work is being able to market it. For starters, you’ll need your own website to showcase your photos and services. They’re easy to set up and manage, and you don’t even need any specialist skills. From your website, you’ll be able to take bookings and have a main point of contact for potential clients. If nothing else, a good website can make you look professional and trustworthy.
4. Use Social Media
Love it or loathe it, social media is a medium that gets photographers noticed. Instagram, in particular, is a popular platform, so you have to embrace it to market yourself. All it takes is one photograph to capture a potential client’s interest. If wedding photography is your thing, look at wedding vendor websites. Registering one of these could bring you a lot of work.
Get used to tagging and crediting those people you work with on their social media, they may well do the same back. It’s a great way to get your name out. However, don’t harass your clients to give this credit.
5. Remember Word of Mouth
Word travels fast in photography circles. Make sure that you always give your clients the very best service, no matter the situation. A good review can go a long way to encouraging more clients. A bad one can stop your progress in its tracks.
Don’t pressure your clients into booking a photoshoot with you. Make sure that they’re 100% happy with what you’ve proposed before you proceed. You should then take a deposit and sign a contract with them. Doing so will protect you and your business.
6. Clickasnap!
Upload your photos to this paid per view site and you will earn money every time your photos are viewed