14 photography side hustle ideas and how to start

If you've ever felt the spark of joy when capturing that perfect shot and thought, "Could this be more than a hobby?" a photography side hustle may be in your future! 

Turning those moments frozen in time into a profitable side hustle—yes, your passion can be your paycheck. From selling your favorite shots as stunning prints to offering personalized photo editing services, the possibilities are far beyond what you might expect. 

In this blog, we’re capturing a snapshot of 14 creative photography side hustle ideas to help you monetize your love for photography. We’ll also sprinkle in some tips to help you hit the ground running. So grab your camera (or your smartphone) and let’s explore how to make your passion work for you.

• There are many creative side hustles like selling photography merchandise and offering editing services to boost your income.

• Enhance your online presence and revenue streams by starting a blog, YouTube channel, or podcast.

• Leverage affiliate marketing, licensing, and creating digital products like ebooks and photography presets.

• Utilize platforms like Gelato to easily turn your photos into sellable products like prints and photo books.

Let's jump right into the creative side hustles to help you monetize your passion and discover which opportunity sparks your interest. 

1. Sell photography merchandise

Turning your images into merchandise is a fantastic way to monetize your passion for photography. Imagine seeing your art on calendars, prints, or even mugs. Here are some ways to start selling your photography merchandise and how Gelato can help you make it happen:

• Create a catalog: Start by choosing a range of products you want to offer. This could include prints, calendars, photo books, mugs, or t-shirts. Offering a variety means more opportunities to attract different types of buyers.

• Use Gelato: Use Gelato’s platform to produce and distribute your merchandise effortlessly. With their print on demand service, you don’t need to worry about holding inventory. Gelato takes care of production, shipping, and even customer service, giving you more time to focus on your photography.

• Engage with your audience: Share stories about your work, behind-the-scenes content, and user-generated photos of your merchandise in use. 

2. Offer photo editing services

If you have a knack for enhancing photos, offering photo editing services can be a lucrative side hustle. Here’s how you can get started and stand out in this competitive field: 

• Invest in quality software: Basic editing software like Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom are industry standards. Mastering these can improve the quality of your edits.

• Create a portfolio: Showcase your photography skills by creating a portfolio with before-and-after examples of your work. This can attract potential clients and show them what you're capable of.

• Offer competitive pricing: To build your clientele, start by offering attractive rates. Consider different packages based on the complexity and amount of work required.

3. Create photography presets

Photography presets can speed up the editing process, helping you achieve a consistent look across all your photos. Here's a guide on how to ensure the perfect presets:

• Master your editing style: Ensure you have a distinct and polished editing style before creating presets. This will make your presets more appealing to potential buyers.

• Use popular editing software: Develop presets using well-known software like Adobe Lightroom or Photoshop, as these are the go-to platforms for other photographers.

• Package your presets: Create a collection of presets that cater to different styles or themes, such as wedding photography, digital photography, or portrait photography.

4. Teach photography workshops

Whether you host these workshops online or in person, you'll be able to connect with fellow enthusiasts and build a sense of community. Here's how you can get started: 

• Create a structured curriculum: Create a detailed syllabus that outlines what participants will learn, the materials needed, and the length of each session. 

• Gather the right tools: Ensure you have all the necessary equipment, such as cameras, tripods, and editing software. For online workshops, ensure your internet connection is stable.

• Engage with participants: The more interactive your workshop is, the more valuable it will be for your attendees, and the more likely they will spread the word about your great teaching.

5. Sell photography courses

If you're passionate about teaching and have a knack for explaining complex concepts in an easy-to-understand way, this could be an excellent side hustle avenue for you. Here's how you can get started:

• Choose your niche: Most photography courses focus on a specific style or technique, such as portrait, landscape, or weddings to stand out. 

• Record high-quality content: Invest in good audio and video equipment to ensure your course provides a great learning experience. 

• Utilize online platforms: Platforms like Udemy, Skillshare, or even your own photography website can host your course. They provide technical infrastructure and help you reach students through their networks.

6. Start a photography blog

Through blogging, you can establish your presence in the photography industry, showcase your work, and monetize your content in various ways. Here are some key steps to get you started: 

• Select a blogging platform: Popular options include WordPress, Squarespace, and Wix. Choose one that suits your technical comfort level and budget.

• Create high-quality content: Consistently publish valuable and visually appealing content such as how-to guides, behind-the-scenes looks, and photo essays.

• Monetize your blog: Explore options such as affiliate marketing, sponsored posts, selling digital products like presets, an online course, or workshops.

7. Leverage affiliate marketing

Photographers can earn a commission on sales through their unique affiliate links by recommending products or photography services that resonate with their followers. Here are some ways to get started:

• Choose the right affiliate programs: Look for programs that align with your niche and audience. For photographers, this might include camera gear, editing software, or online courses.

• Create valuable content: Use your blog, YouTube channel, or social media to share honest reviews, tutorials, and how-tos that incorporate your affiliate links. 

• Track your performance: Use analytics tools provided by your affiliate programs to see which links are performing best. 

8. Create a photography YouTube channel

Venturing into the world of YouTube can be a game-changer for photographers. A YouTube channel offers a versatile platform to showcase your skills. Here are a few steps to get started: 

• Create a content plan: Plan out your videos in advance. Consistency is key, so aim to create content regularly to keep your audience engaged and coming back for more.

• Invest in quality equipment: While your camera should do most of the heavy lifting, investing in good audio equipment and lighting can improve the professionalism of your videos.

• Learn about SEO: YouTube is a search engine, so using keywords, tags, and video descriptions can help your videos reach a broader audience.

9. License your photos

By allowing others to use your work for a fee, you can earn a steady stream of income from your existing portfolio. Here's how you can carry out this step effectively: 

• Register with stock photography sites: Platforms like Shutterstock, Adobe Stock, and Getty Images allow you to upload and sell prints. Each download or license can earn you money.

• Pay attention to trends: Staying updated on current market trends can help you create highly demanded photos. 

• Understand licensing options: Familiarize with licensing agreements, such as Royalty-Free (RF) and Rights-Managed (RM). Choose the one that best suits your needs and your target market.

10. Create and sell photography ebooks

With the ability to reach a global audience, writing an eBook allows you to dig deep into topics you're passionate about while establishing yourself as an expert in the field. Here's how to get started:

• Draft a comprehensive outline: Before writing, create a structured outline to help you organize your thoughts and ensure your ebook covers all essential aspects of the topic.

• Design an eye-catching cover: The eBook cover is the first thing potential buyers will see, so make it attractive and professional. A well-designed cover can impact your book's sales.

• Market your eBook: Promote your eBook through social media, your photography blog, and email newsletters. Consider offering a free chapter or a limited-time discount to attract more readers.

11. Run a photography podcast

Whether you're discussing the latest gear, interviewing industry professionals, or offering tips, a podcast allows you to reach a broad audience and establish yourself as a thought leader. Here are our tips to get started:

• Generate revenue: Monetize your podcast through sponsorships, affiliate marketing, or listener donations. Many brands are willing to pay for exposure to your audience.

• Build a community: Engaging with your listeners through Q&A sessions, photo contests, social media interactions, or live shows can help build a loyal community around your podcast.

• Expand your reach: Podcasts can be accessed globally, allowing you to share your passion for photography with people around the world. This can lead to new opportunities and collaborations.

12. Curate photography exhibitions

Showcasing your work through photography exhibitions elevates your profile as a photographer and creates opportunities for selling your prints and networking with potential clients. Here’s how you can get started: 

• Choose a theme: A central theme or narrative will create cohesion and make your exhibition more impactful. Consider what stories or concepts you want to convey through your images.

• Select the venue: Depending on your budget and audience, you can opt for local art galleries, community centers, or even trendy cafés. 

• Prepare your prints: High-quality prints are essential for any exhibition. Partner with reliable printing services like Gelato to ensure your photos look their best.

13. Offer photography mentoring

By sharing your expertise, you help others grow, reinforce your knowledge, and possibly discover new techniques. Here's how you can carry out this endeavor:

• Build a mentoring program: Outline what your mentorship will cover. Will it include one-on-one sessions, portfolio reviews, or practical shooting exercises? Having a clear structure will make your program more appealing.

• Set your rates: Determine how much to charge based on the depth of your program and the industry standards. Offering package deals can be an attractive option for long-term mentorship.

• Create marketing materials: Promote your mentoring services on your website, social media, and photography communities. 

14. Develop photography apps or tools

As the photography industry evolves with technology, developing apps or tools tailored for photographers can be a lucrative side hustle. Here are some ideas to get you started: 

• Photo organization apps: Create an app that helps photographers catalog and manage their photos effortlessly. Features like tagging, sorting, and cloud storage integration can provide immense value.

• Marketplaces for prints: Design a platform where photographers can easily sell their prints and digital downloads. Integration with print on demand services like Gelato can streamline the process.

• Location scouting tools: Create a tool that helps photographers find and document great photo locations. Features such as user reviews, sample photos, and GPS navigation can be incredibly beneficial.

Starting your photography side hustle can be an exciting venture. It allows you to turn your passion into an additional income stream. Here are some straightforward steps to get you started:

1. Define your niche: Determine the area of photography that excites you the most, whether it’s portraits, landscapes, or product photography.

2. Build a portfolio: Gather your best work and create an online portfolio to showcase your skills to potential clients.

3. Invest in equipment: Ensure you have a reliable camera, lenses, and editing software to deliver high-quality images.

4. Set your pricing: Research local market rates and set competitive prices for your services.

We’ve explored the various side hustle ideas to help you launch or elevate your photography career. The possibilities are exciting; from selling stunning prints to kickstarting a YouTube channel. To really boost your business, you need a platform that simplifies turning your creativity into profit—that’s where Gelato can streamline everything for you!

Gelato’s print on demand solutions enable you to effortlessly create and sell merchandise featuring your photography. Beyond prints, you can offer calendars, photo books, and even personalized mugs. With Gelato, you don’t need to worry about inventory or shipping, as we do all the heavy lifting for you. Our flexible subscription plans and API integration make scaling your side hustle as easy as capturing the perfect shot. 

Sign up for Gelato and get started today!

Is photography a profitable side hustle?

Absolutely! Photography can be a highly profitable side hustle. You can generate a steady income with diverse opportunities like selling prints, offering workshops, and licensing photos. The initial investment in gear and marketing pays off as you build a client base and expand your offerings.

Which type of photography makes the most money?

Commercial and event photography often bring in the highest earnings. Event photographers can charge premium rates for weddings, corporate events, and parties. On the commercial side, businesses pay well for quality product photos, promotional shots, and corporate portraits, especially when these images are essential for marketing and branding.

What kind of photos sell the most?

Photos that sell the most often fall into categories like lifestyle, business, nature, travel, and holidays. These images are in constant demand for various uses, including marketing, blogs, and social media. High-quality, authentic images that evoke emotions and tell a story tend to attract more buyers.