Many people don't like to talk about money when it comes to photography, but it shouldn't be a dirty word. Here's how to turn your creativity into cash in just a few simple steps.
So, you're a photographer that loves to take pictures and is keen to find a way to make money from that passion. Maybe you're already doing this but would like to earn more. The good news is that even in 2022, it is still possible to make a good living from being a creative with a skill. How you approach this task can be the difference between success and failure, which is why some consideration of how you go about trying to monetize your creativity is crucial. One great account of how to go about this is in the video by artist and self-help YouTuber Campbell Walker. In his jam-packed video, we learn everything from how much to charge, to making products, to contacting clients, and even the sometimes boring topic of filing taxes. I really like Walker's presentation in his videos, as he has a way of making even complex concepts understandable in fun bite-sized chunks.
One thing this video has that similar videos often shy away from is real-world numbers. Walker goes into great detail about what he charged when he first started out and how those figures evolved over the years as his skills improved. While the areas he is talking about may not be where you plan to make money, the concepts are similar in many industries and territories. I really like the language he uses around prospective clients when he talks about "solving problems" for them or how he likes to say no with a high price as a way to politely turn down work.
All in all, this video is a great overview of the many ways of making money as a creative. I think many of you already in the industry would still benefit from watching such a video, as it can be useful to learn about the trajectory of others and their approach. I know I found his stories inspiring and a good reminder that there is always money to be made for creative people with skills.
How do you feel about monetizing your photography? Is this something you have already done or would you rather your passion and making money didn't cross paths? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below.
Lead image by Karolina Grabowska, used under Creative Commons.
I thought this article was going to tell different ways to monetize. Didnt know I had to watch a video. Waste of time clicking.
Me too, I was so pissed off I wasted more time registering just to say what you said, but you already said it so I came to upvote your comment. Click bait should be banned.
clickbait is what fstoppers is . . . something you should have realized a long time ago
It's a good video but it's nothing to do with Photography.
succeeding as a working professional photographer has virtually nothing to do with photography
When they show you money and just a $20 bill, it's always the sign of a click bait. Today, good clients tend to pay ACH.
I made 20 cents commission on my last (2) Shutterstock sales
Great video