As Mark Twain said, ‘Find a job you enjoy doing, and you will never have to work a day in your life.’ Have you ever thought of monetizing your hobby and start your own business? It is not going to be easy, however, if your interest happens to be photography, you’re in luck. There are at least seven methods to capitalize on your photographic skills and pursuits, whether as a side hustle, or an entrepreneurial photography startup venture.

But how much money will you make? It depends on your level of expertise and the kind photography you are into, however, if you play your cards right, you can surely make a sustainable income at the amount of $50 to $150 per hour. But where do you begin and how much money will you need to invest? Let’s talk about cheap and potentially lucrative ways to make a living with a small photography business.

1.    Passport & ID Photography

If you don’t know where to start, go with ID photography – a fairly easy photography startup business that does not require a lot of funding. Set up a small studio, get basic tools like lights, reflectors, a tripod, and a printer. And don’t forget about a passport photo maker software to stay up-to-date with the latest ID and visa photo regulations and monitor costs, expenses, and orders. It will also provide you with a client database tool to improve customer experience.

Startup costs: $30 for the software, in case you already have a camera and basic equipment.

2.    Stock Photography

This is a great source of passive income. Check out websites like Shutterstock and Depositphotos, familiarize yourself with the types of images they are looking for, and offer them your services. In exchange for your great photos, you will receive a monthly payment for the royalties and your pictures will end up in brochures, on the corporate websites, and in books.

Startup costs: no costs, in case you already have a camera and basic equipment.

3.    Food Photography

Are you a foodie who knows and loves food? Making a simple sandwich look delicious on a photo is not easy, so only someone who really enjoys food can succeed in this business. The good thing is that you can practice at home using anything from the fridge. Once you prepared a small portfolio, go to local restaurants and offer them your photographic delicacies.

Startup costs: $50 for business cards, in case you already have a camera and basic equipment.

4.    Hair and Makeup Photography

Hairstylists and makeup artists constantly need to update their work portfolio to get new customers and you can help them with this. Visit local hair and beauty salons and offer them your services. 

Startup costs: $50 for business cards, in case you already have a camera and basic equipment.

5.    Event Photography

If you are an outgoing and sociable person, you will enjoy capturing people’s happiest moments at their weddings, graduation and birthday parties as well as corporate events. Besides, this photography startup business gives you the networking that every business owner needs – at these events you will meet potential clients and expand your business very quickly.

Startup costs: $50 for business cards, in case you already have a camera and basic equipment.

6.    Real-estate Photography

Do you know how to make a house look warm and welcoming? Real-estate photography is a great business, where you get to create a cozy and comforting atmosphere for potential homeowners.

Startup costs: $50 for business cards, in case you already have a camera and basic equipment.

7.    Photography Teaching

If you would like to share your expertise with the world and pass the wisdom to the new generation, teaching will be a very rewarding experience for you. You can teach online as well as offer your classes at the local community center or library.

Startup costs: $50 for business cards, in case you already have a camera and basic equipment.

To convert your passion into an actual career is a dream come true. So, choose your weapon, get the essential tools and software, and begin your new and exciting career with a photography startup.