20 Legit Ways to Make Money Taking Pictures: Everything You Need to Know
With the rise of digital platforms, making money by taking pictures has become more accessible than ever. Whether you’re a professional photographer or someone who enjoys snapping photos with a smartphone, there are numerous ways to earn money from your pictures.
From apps that pay you for your photography to sites where you can upload and sell your images, the opportunities are vast.
This in-depth guide will cover the 20 best ways to make money taking pictures, answering common questions like how to get started, where to post photos, and what types of pictures generate the most income.
And yes, people really do buy and sell feet photos, keep reading to learn all the ways you can make money with photography.
1. Stock Photography
Stock photography involves taking photos and uploading them to platforms where businesses, marketers, and individuals can purchase them for use.
Sites like Shutterstock, Adobe Stock, and iStock allow photographers to upload images and earn a commission each time their photo is downloaded.
How It Works:
- Sign up for an account on a stock photography platform.
- Upload high-quality images with proper keywords.
- Earn a commission (usually between 20%-60%) every time someone downloads your photo.
Popular Apps to Use:
- Foap (iOS, Android): A mobile-friendly app where you can upload photos for sale.
- EyeEm (iOS, Android): A platform where your photos can be bought for commercial use.
2. Print on Demand
Platforms like Redbubble and Society6 allow you to upload your photos and have them printed on products like T-shirts, mugs, and phone cases.
You earn a commission on each sale without worrying about manufacturing or shipping.
How It Works:
- Upload your photo to the platform.
- Set your profit margin for each product.
- The platform handles production and shipping.
3. Photography Contests
Many companies and websites run photography contests with cash prizes. Sites like Photocrowd and Viewbug host contests that cater to different photography styles.
While it’s a competitive field, winning can boost your portfolio and result in substantial payouts.
How It Works:
- Participate in free or paid contests.
- Submit your best work.
- If you win, you can earn prizes, cash, and recognition.
4. Freelance Photography
If you’re skilled in photography, offering freelance services can be lucrative. Freelance photographers are hired for events, portraits, product photography, and more.
Where to Find Freelance Jobs:
- Fiverr
- Upwork
- Freelancer
Types of Freelance Photography:
- Event photography (weddings, parties)
- Product photography for businesses
- Real estate photography
Memory Place is also a unique way one can showcase their photography and videos, a great tool for weddings, and other events as well to capture all photos taken.
5. Sell Photos on Your Website
Creating your own website or portfolio where you sell your images directly to customers can give you greater control over your pricing and profits.
How to Get Started:
- Build a website using platforms like Weebly or Squarespace.
- Set up an online store to sell digital downloads or physical prints.
- Market your site through social media and SEO.
6. Social Media Influencer
If you enjoy taking pictures or videos of yourself, places, or products, becoming an Instagram, TikTok or YouTube influencer can be an excellent way to earn money.
Brands pay influencers to feature their products in photos and videos.
How It Works:
- Build a following on Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube.
- Post high-quality, engaging content regularly.
- Brands will pay you to feature their products in your posts.
7. Real Estate Photography
Real estate agents and property developers need high-quality photos of homes and buildings to market their listings.
You can specialize in real estate photography and sell your services to agents or companies.
How It Works:
- Offer services to real estate agencies or list on freelance platforms.
- Invest in wide-angle lenses and learn the specifics of shooting interiors and exteriors.
- Get paid per property shoot or per photo.
8. Sell Photos to Blogs and Online Publications
Many blogs, news outlets, and online publications are always in need of fresh visuals to accompany their articles.
Reach out to editors or check their submission guidelines to sell photos that match their content needs.
Where to Submit:
- Unsplash (premium options available)
- Alamy
- Depositphotos
9. Foot Photography
Yes, people really do pay for pictures of feet! There is a niche market for foot photos, especially in beauty, fashion, and niche fetishes.
How to Get Started:
- Post your foot photos on platforms like FeetFinder or TrueFanz.
- Some social media accounts also sell foot photos directly to followers.
- Always ensure your transactions are legal and consensual.
10. Pet Photography
People love their pets and are willing to pay for professional photos of them. You can offer pet portrait services or sell stock images of animals.
Where to Market:
- Local pet stores or animal shelters.
- Stock platforms like Shutterstock.
- Personal website showcasing your pet photography portfolio.
11. Sell Your Travel Photos
If you love traveling and taking photos of scenic landscapes or landmarks, selling travel photos is an ideal way to make money.
Travel agencies, hotels, and tourism boards frequently purchase images for their marketing campaigns.
Where to Sell Travel Photos:
- TrekEarth
- 500px
- Alamy
12. Product Photography for Ecommerce Sellers
Small business owners and ecommerce sellers often need high-quality product images for their websites or marketplaces like Etsy and Amazon.
You can offer product photography services, especially if you’re skilled with close-up or macro shots.
How to Get Started:
- Offer your services on freelance platforms.
- Build a portfolio showcasing product photography.
- Reach out to ecommerce businesses directly.
13. Sell Photos as NFTs
Non-fungible tokens (NFTs) have opened up a new world for photographers looking to monetize their work in the digital space.
By selling your photos as NFTs, you can retain ownership while allowing others to collect or invest in your art.
Popular NFT Platforms:
- OpenSea
- Foundation
- Rarible
14. Food Photography
Food bloggers, restaurants, and culinary brands are always in need of mouth-watering food photos.
You can specialize in food photography, selling images or offering services to local restaurants.
How to Get Started:
- Build a portfolio of food photos.
- Contact restaurants, food bloggers, and culinary magazines.
- Post food images on stock photo platforms.
15. Sell to Print Publications
Some magazines, particularly niche publications in travel, fashion, or nature, are always on the lookout for fresh images.
Submit your work for consideration, especially if you have a unique style or access to exclusive events or locations.
Where to Submit:
- Travel and lifestyle magazines.
- Nature and wildlife publications.
- Fashion and beauty magazines.
16. Drone Photography
If you own a drone, you can capture aerial shots and sell them to clients in industries like real estate, tourism, and construction.
High-quality drone images are in high demand for marketing and promotional materials.
Where to Sell:
- Real estate agents and developers.
- Tourism boards.
- Construction companies.
17. Take Photos for Stock Footage Platforms
In addition to still photography, you can also create short clips for stock footage platforms like Videohive and Pond5.
These platforms often require additional visuals, especially in industries like corporate marketing and film making.
How It Works:
- Upload your photos or clips to the platform.
- Earn a commission each time your content is sold.
18. Fitness Photography
The fitness industry is booming, and trainers, gyms, and fitness influencers often need professional-quality photos for marketing.
You can offer fitness photography services for personal trainers, gym promotions, or fitness apparel companies.
How to Market Yourself:
- Contact local gyms or fitness professionals.
- Build a portfolio of fitness-related photos.
- Promote your services on social media.
19. Create an Online Photography Course
If you’re skilled at photography, consider creating an online course to teach others how to take great pictures.
Platforms like Udemy and Skool allow creators to upload video tutorials and earn money from student enrollments.
How to Get Started:
- Choose a niche or specific aspect of photography to teach.
- Film lessons and upload them to an online course platform.
- Promote your course to potential students.
20. Take Photos of Yourself and Sell Them
If you’re comfortable in front of the camera, taking and selling photos of yourself can be a great way to make money.
Platforms like Patreon, OnlyFans, and Instagram allow creators to monetize their personal photos by charging followers for access to exclusive content.
How It Works:
- Create high-quality, tasteful photos of yourself.
- Post them on subscription-based platforms like Patreon or OnlyFans.
- Charge followers a monthly fee to access exclusive content.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Apps Pay You for Taking Pictures?
Where Can I Post My Pictures and Get Paid?
You can post your photos on stock photography sites like Shutterstock, Adobe Stock, and iStock.
Additionally, freelance platforms like Fiverr and Upwork offer opportunities for photographers to find clients.
How Can I Make Money with My Photos?
You can make money with your photos through stock photography, selling prints, offering freelance services, or even selling photos directly to blogs and publications.
What Kind of Pictures Make the Most Money?
Images that are in high demand include nature, travel, lifestyle, and business-related photos.
However, niche markets like drone photography, fitness, and pet photography can also be highly profitable.
How Do I Get Paid to Take Pictures of Myself?
To get paid for photos of yourself, consider platforms like Instagram, OnlyFans, or Patreon where you can charge followers for access to exclusive content.
Alternatively, become a model or influencer and get paid by brands to showcase their products.
Can I Really Get Paid to Take Pictures of My Feet?
Yes, there’s a niche market for foot photography. Platforms like FeetFinder allow people to sell foot photos, and some social media influencers have also monetized this type of photography.
What Sites Will Pay for Photos?
Sites like Shutterstock, Adobe Stock, Alamy, and Foap will pay for high-quality photos uploaded by photographers.
Freelance platforms like Fiverr and Upwork also offer opportunities for paid photography work.
Can I Use My Phone to Take Pictures and Get Paid?
Absolutely! Many apps and platforms, such as Foap and EyeEm, allow you to take and upload photos directly from your smartphone, enabling you to make money without the need for expensive camera equipment.
What is The Best Site for a Beginner to Get Started Selling Photos On?
For beginners, Foap is a great platform to start with, as it is user-friendly and allows you to upload photos directly from your smartphone.
Additionally, Shutterstock and Adobe Stock are popular choices due to their large user bases and the potential for high exposure.
These platforms also offer beginner-friendly interfaces and resources to help new photographers understand the market.
Conclusion
By exploring these 20 legit ways to make money taking pictures, you can tap into various income streams, whether you’re a hobbyist or a professional photographer.
The key to success lies in finding your niche, consistently producing high-quality images, and exploring the platforms that best align with your style and reaching your goals.
We really hope this article 20 Legit Ways to Make Money Taking Pictures has been extremely helpful to you.
If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to post them in the comments section below or just say hello.
Sincerely,
Your Friends And Partners
Richard And John Weberg
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