The Three Best Ways to Build a Photography Business

Making money with your camera isn’t just about taking great photos. It’s about getting clients, making connections, and understanding how to put yourself in the right place at the right time. If you want to turn photography into a full-time income instead of a side hustle, you need to know what works.

Coming to you from Laura BC, this insightful video focuses on some of the most overlooked skills that can determine whether you succeed or struggle. Social media is a major tool, giving you free marketing that photographers in the past didn’t have. Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube Shorts make it easier than ever to showcase your work, attract clients, and build credibility. Posting behind-the-scenes footage, finished images, or even short explanations of your process can bring in leads from around the world. You don’t need to be a YouTuber to make social media work—you just need to be active and strategic.

Another method is one that people often resist: networking. It doesn’t mean standing in a room full of strangers, handing out business cards. It’s about naturally making connections in everyday situations. Casual conversations can lead to unexpected opportunities. Carrying your camera, mentioning what you do when people ask, and being open to meeting new people can bring clients without forcing anything. Even introverts can use simple strategies to make networking easier. That's just the start, so check out the video above for the full rundown.

If you would like to learn more about the business of photography, check out "Making Real Money: The Business of Commercial Photography With Monte Isom!"

Alex Cooke's picture

Alex Cooke is a Cleveland-based portrait, events, and landscape photographer. He holds an M.S. in Applied Mathematics and a doctorate in Music Composition. He is also an avid equestrian.

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