How I Make Money Online as a Photographer
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions I get about making money online as a photographer. If you're looking to transition into full-time photography or simply want to create additional income streams, this blog post is for you.
How Do I Make Money as a Photographer?
I rely on multiple income streams to sustain my photography business. Depending on just one can be risky, so I diversify by earning through:
YouTube (AdSense and brand sponsorships)
Selling digital products like presets and courses
Affiliate marketing
1-to-1 sessions
Photography services and working with clients
Some months are better than others, but having multiple streams helps balance things out.
What Was My First Real Source of Income from Photography?
My first source of income online was selling presets. I created a preset pack and sold it through my website. Most recently though it’s through my 1-to-1’s, brand deals and online courses.
Is YouTube Profitable for Photographers?
Yes, but not solely from AdSense. The real value of YouTube is that it serves as free marketing for your products and services. I don’t consider myself a YouTuber—I’m a photographer who uses YouTube to promote my work. If you think of it as a business tool rather than chasing views and likes, you’ll get far more out of it.
How Do You Find Brands to Work With?
Early on, I reached out to brands I wanted to work with, offering my services. As my audience grew, brands started reaching out to me. Now, I have the flexibility to choose who I collaborate with.
What’s Been My Biggest Financial Mistake?
Not paying down my "ignorance tax" sooner. This means investing in knowledge early on—taking courses, signing up for newsletters, and learning from others. The sooner you invest in education, the faster you can grow.
Can You Make a Full-Time Living Just Selling Digital Products?
Yes, but I personally don’t rely on digital products alone. They are a significant part of my income, but I still offer services offline. Some months, digital product sales are low, but they pick up over time. I’m seeing the most growth in online courses and my mentorship program, which is something I’m expanding.
Do I Work for Free?
Yes, even now. Working for free can be valuable for building relationships, gaining experience, and expanding your portfolio. Early in your career, brands won’t just hand you high-paying projects—you need to prove yourself first. Sometimes, taking a chance on a collaboration can lead to long-term success.
What’s the Hardest Part About Making Money Online?
Consistency. Sticking with it, even when you’re not seeing results, is the biggest challenge. Think of it like going to the gym—results take time. In content creation, even if only 20 people watch your video, that’s 20 potential customers. Stay committed, and over time, you’ll see the rewards.
Do You Need a Huge Following to Make Money?
No. An engaged audience is more valuable than a large, uninterested one. Many creators with small but loyal followings earn more than those with massive audiences. Focus on building trust with your audience rather than just chasing numbers.
How Do You Make Money from Affiliate Marketing?
Affiliate marketing has been surprisingly profitable for me. Last month alone, I made $1,000 just by recommending gear and linking to it in my video descriptions. Amazon Affiliates is my main source, but many brands offer affiliate programs. If you're working with a company, ask if they provide affiliate commissions—it can be a great additional income stream.
Final Advice for Starting a YouTube Channel
If you're thinking about starting a YouTube channel—just start. It has changed my life, allowing me to focus on photography without constantly searching for clients. As an introvert, I’ve found it much easier to talk to a camera for 10 minutes than to cold-call potential clients. If you approach it strategically and provide value, YouTube can be a life-changing tool for your photography business.
If you're serious about growing your photography business, consider booking a 1-to-1 call with me where we can spear head your career today!