
Did you know you can get paid to take pictures, even if you’re not a professional photographer?
With the amazing cameras in today’s smartphones and the affordability of high-quality digital cameras, photography has become a common hobby for many.
But what most people don’t realize is that this hobby can easily turn into a source of income.
If you love capturing moments and have an eye for detail, there are plenty of websites and platforms where you can sell your photos and start making money right from your camera roll.
How to Make Money with Your Photography
There are numerous websites and apps where you can sell your photos.
Whether you’re interested in showcasing your shots as art or offering them for commercial use as stock images, there’s a platform that matches your style.
All you need is creativity and an eye for detail, and you can start turning your photos into profit.
Top Apps That Pay You to Take Photos
If you’re looking for an easy way to get started, several apps allow you to upload and sell photos directly from your smartphone—no professional skills required.
- EyeEm simplifies the process of selling your photos. The app automatically selects high-quality images from your camera roll, though you can choose which ones to upload. While it’s convenient, you keep only 50% of your earnings.
- Foap allows you to sell your photos to big brands, also splitting the earnings 50/50. A unique feature is its “Missions,” where you can submit photos based on specific company requests for a chance at higher payouts.
- Snapwire offers a different approach by allowing you to participate in creative Challenges. If your photos are selected by buyers, you can earn up to 70% of the payout. This platform also allows you to compete for live assignments once you level up.
- miPic offers a passive way to earn money by turning your photos into products like prints, phone cases, and more. You earn 20% commission on sales, and the app handles everything from promotion to customer service.
Selling Stock Photos
One of the most consistent ways to earn from your pictures is by selling them as stock photos. Businesses, bloggers, and creatives purchase stock images for a variety of uses, and when they select yours, you earn a cut.
Here are some tips to make your stock photos stand out:
- Keep it generic: Photos should be broadly applicable and free of brand names or logos.
- Focus on simplicity: Companies often look for clean, easy-to-understand visuals, like a person working or a serene nature scene.
- High quality is key: Make sure your photos are sharp, well-lit, and properly focused. Browsing stock photo sites can provide inspiration.
Best Websites to Sell Photos
If you’re ready to take things up a notch, the following websites are great places to start selling your photos:
- Shutterstock: A popular choice for beginners and pros alike, Shutterstock exposes your photos to thousands of potential buyers. You can also use their app to upload images directly from your phone.
- Adobe Stock: With Adobe Stock, your photos are displayed on both Adobe and Fotolia, doubling your exposure. You earn a flat 33% of the sale price.
- Snapped4U: Specializing in event photos, Snapped4U is perfect for selling pictures from weddings, concerts, or other events. You set your prices, and Snapped4U handles the sales.
- Getty Images / iStock: Known for high-quality photography, Getty Images is a bit more exclusive. You need to apply to sell your photos, but once accepted, you’ll have access to over 1.5 million customers.
Selling Your Photos as Art
If your photos are more creative or artistic, consider selling them as art rather than stock images.
- Etsy allows you to set up your own shop and sell artistic photos. While there are listing and transaction fees, it’s a great platform for reaching buyers looking for unique artwork.
- If you have your own website, Fotomoto can handle the printing, shipping, and customer service for your photo sales. It’s an ideal option for building a photography business.
- Society6 enables you to sell your photos printed on various products like mugs and canvas prints. You’ll earn a 10% commission, and the platform takes care of everything else.
Gear and Tools You Need to Succeed
You don’t need a fancy camera or expensive equipment to get started. A good smartphone and some editing tools can go a long way.
- Smartphone: Today’s smartphone cameras can take high-quality photos comparable to older digital cameras.
- Professional camera: If you’re serious about photography, a DSLR like the Nikon D3500 or Canon EOS Rebel T7i is a good investment.
- Photo editing software: Tools like Adobe Photoshop or Affinity Photo can help you perfect your images.
If you’re looking for free options, Pixlr offers robust editing tools for free and is accessible via web browser or mobile app.
Turn Your Photos into Cash
Turning your passion for photography into a money-making venture is easier than ever.
Whether you’re using apps like Foap to make quick cash or building an online portfolio on Etsy or Shutterstock, there are plenty of ways to profit from your skills.
Grab your camera, explore the options, and start earning from your snapshots today!