How to make more money as a photographer
Working doing something you love is the ultimate dream! But sometimes, it can be hard to make that switch and still make a decent living. Especially in a creative, but equally competitive field. That’s why we at Pixme have put together some tips for getting the most out of your photography by maximizing your profits.
Invest in equipment
In order for your photographs to stand out, investing in good quality cameras/lenses/tripods/lighting equipment is necessary if you want to generate more money with each project. Moreover, familiarize yourself with new techniques being used by other successful photographers in order to stay ahead of competition – staying up-to-date and continuously improving ensures profits don't stagnate over time!
Don’t neglect editing
An essential part of all great photographs is strong post processing work – use popular programs like Photoshop & Lightroom or even some free alternatives available online such as GIMP or Pixlr in order to really elevate images taken by yourself. Not only does this generate a better quality final product but it also boosts customer satisfaction rate tremendously! There is no point spending thousands on a camera, if you’re not getting as much out of the editing process as possible.
Become an expert
To become an expert in any field takes time and effort, but as a photographer it pays off big time. Learn all about photography, editing techniques, and different types of equipment so you can provide high quality services for customers that other photographers may not be able to provide. Customers will always be willing to pay more if you give off an impression of professionalism.
Create online presence
Establishing an online presence is the key to success today as a professional photographer! Use social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, Twitter etc. Share your work regularly on these networks and create unique hashtags with each post. This will help potential customers find you easily from anywhere in the world. Build relationships with influencers within your industry and reach out for collaboration opportunities as this will help spread awareness about your services quickly as well.
Sell your photos online
Allowing your customers to purchase photos online after an event can help increase your profits. It also avoids the awkwardness of asking for money in person. Experiment with setting different prices, and editing them in different ways to work out what works best for your style. Also, don’t forget to make sure the customers know where to find the photos.
Sell your photos on a stock website
Many photographers don't realize that they can make extra money by selling their photos on stock imagery websites. By doing so, photographers can get exposure to a wider audience, make additional income, and even build a name for themselves in this area. The process is simple and straightforward - all you need to do is upload your images and start selling. You even have the option of setting your own prices! With so many buyers looking for quality images, you can easily make a profit from offering your services through these sites.
Offer unique experiences
You know what sets you apart from other photographers – offer something special or unique in terms of experience which will prompt customers to spend their money on you rather than others. For example, propose packages with add-ons such as printed photos or albums which get delivered to clients after they have paid you and have had their pictures taken by you. This creates added value and sets yourself apart from competition while also generating extra income!
Participate in contests & competitions
Look into contests sponsored by organisations or magazines where contestants have their pictures judged according to skill level – winners typically receive monetary rewards which come directly from sponsors so make sure you take advantage of these opportunities where you can!
Diversify your talents
Expand upon existing skillsets beyond just photography itself - explore other avenues such as editing for other photographers, videography, directing photoshoots, write reviews for events you’re attending, retouching existing photos, teaching workshops etc. In most cases, finding related skills will also help improve your skills as a photographer.
Attend a variety of events
Just because someone hasn’t specifically paid you to attend and shoot an event, doesn’t mean you can’t make some money from taking great photos there. Attend local sporting events, music festivals, food festivals, celebrations etc. If nothing else, it will help build out the variety in your portfolio, and make it more likely you get paid for those types of events in the future.
Take lots of photos
It’s hard to know exactly what your customer is looking for ahead of time. Taking lots of photos creates options, and increases the likelihood of them buying multiple photos if you’re selling them singularly. Try different angles, art styles, poses and vary your distance.
Network & promote yourself
Last but not least – get out there into real world meetups/networking events related specifically towards photography topics. Showcase portfolio pieces during gatherings and create strong connections with people who could potentially offer jobs further down line – never underestimate the power of word-of-mouth marketing when it comes to growing business!
How can Pixme help you sell more photos?
Pixme is designed to help photographers maximise their income. We use facial recognition technology combined with an easy notification and purchasing process to ensure every shoot ends with as many photo sales as possible. Once you take a photo of a customer, just get them to sign up by scanning the QR code in the app. Once they’ve signed up, they’ll get a notification when you upload photos of them. Pixme handles all the purchasing process, so you can just upload your photos and leave the rest to us.
Join now and find out just how much you could be making as a photographer.