If you have a knack for photography, you can turn your passion into profits. There are many businesses, organizations, and resources online that want to buy quality photos.
#1 Research Your Niche
Most photographers have a niche. There is a specific type of subject or photograph in which you specialize. For example, Ansell Adams was a nature photographer. He took many popular photographs of America’s National Parks, including several notable ones at Yosemite. Other photographers specialize in portraits, cars, animals…the list goes on and on.
If you have a specialty, spend some time researching people, organizations, websites, businesses and publications that may need your specialty photographs. For example, travel websites and publications are often looking for travel photographs.
#2 Sell to Stock Photo Websites or Create Your Own
Stock photo websites are always an easy way to earn money. You simply create a profile, upload your photo and you get paid every time someone downloads your photo. Some stock photo sites pay more than others. Do your research so you know what to expect.
You can also create your own stock photo website that caters to your niche. Generally when you sell photos on a stock photo website, you sell limited rights to publish the image. This means that the customer can buy the photo at a reduced rate. However, you can also sell the photo an unlimited number of times. It’s not unheard of for a stock photo to have been purchased several thousand times.
#3 Market to Website Designers and Graphic Designers
Partnerships or relationships with designers in your niche can be a great way to make extra money. For example, a website designer that caters to the health and wellness industry may be in regular need for photos and images for their client’s websites. Likewise a graphic designer tends to work with stock images when creating headers and simple graphics. Your photographs can help them develop original designs.
#4 Create an Etsy Storefront
Etsy.com is a website that enables artists and vintage retailers to sell their wares. You will find many handmade items on the website. You will also find artwork. You can create a storefront at Etsy and sell your photos through the store.
#5 Wallpaper
You can also sell your photographs as wallpaper for people’s computer monitors, mobile devices and tablets. Everyone wants to customize their electronics and your original photos may be exactly what they are looking for.
There are many ways to sell your photos online. Begin by defining your niche and looking for opportunities within that niche. Don’t forget to market your photographs. A great way to do this is to participate in social networking and photo sharing websites.
