The Truth About How Easy Selling Your Photos Can Be

Learn the truth about how easy selling your photos can be from guest author Ryan Goodchild of pupperslove.com.

Artisans of all types sell their wares at craft shows. If you have a talent for photography here is how to profit off your creativity. As you'll see, it's easier than you think!

First, build a catalog around a theme. Nature, buildings, and people are popular subjects. That said, carving a niche featuring unusual subjects can help you stand out.

Put thought into your composition. Too, even if your experienced, you may still benefit from additional instruction. Consider taking lessons or a photography class. In fact, great instructors like Don Orkoskey will help you grow no matter where you are as a photographer.

Photography Gear

Professional equipment is essential However, it can be expensive. Therefore, get comfortable with the gear you're considering owning by renting it first. Services such as Lightbulb Rental in Pittsburgh and BorrowLenses.com nationally are great resources. Too, consider talking with professionals. After all, they can offer advice on what to avoid.

Photography is Light

Lighting is everything in photography. Therefore, you don't want to simply buy just any lighting. It's true that buying a diffuser or an umbrella that softens a flash can make a lot of sense. However, be sure to learn how to use lighting gear first by taking a class or assisting professional photographers. The American Society of Media Photographers is a great place to find pros you can work with. Ultimately, lighting gear, like everything else in photography, is an investment.

Selling Your Photos

No matter what you do, if you're selling photos you'll want to protect yourself. Therefore you'll want to register your business as a limited liability corporation or other legal entity.

Protect Yourself

Registering a business has multiple advantages, including less paperwork and legal protection. States have different rules regarding the establishment of LLCs, so learn how to start an LLC before getting into trouble. Too, make sure you're protected with liability and equipment insurance.

Managing Inventory

If you're selling your photos as fine art prints you'll want them to look great. Mat and frame your photos shortly after they have been printed. Wrap each in a plastic art bag to protect against inclement weather. Packing them in boxes reduces the odds of damage during travel. Organize photos ahead of time, and use an item numbering system to keep track of sales.

Designing Displays

When you're vending at craft shows select some of your most appealing images. Then, hang them in your booth so passersby will want to stop. Treat your space like a retail store. Make room for patrons to look around and discuss what they like with their companions.

Prominently display the name of your business. In fact, consider hiring a professional designer. After all, signage leaves crowds with a good impression. Too, place your business cards in attractive holders for a finishing touch.

Pricing Pictures

How much you charge depends on a lot of factors. For example, the the cost of your time and materials. After all, one goal of selling your photos is likely earning money. At least you're likely not trying to spend more than you're making.

Displaying Photos

Make sure the cost of frames doesn't exceed what you're earning. Frame It Easy notes that buying in bulk can help. Another variable is how much your competition is charging. Investigate the market price. Take this into consideration when you're choosing where to sell your work. Also, be honest with yourself about your skill level, and factor that into your prices.

Ultimately, the best way to figure out what to charge comes down to two things. First, what do you need or want to earn. Second, how much can you reasonably expect to sell and will that number, priced accordingly, earn you what you need to make.

Selling Online

If you're selling prints online make sure you understand all the factors that can influence a purchase. Consumer behavior analysts claim people are between four and five times more likely to make a purchase when they get free shipping according to Convince and Convert. Offer this benefit to those taking home more than one of your works.

Online Photo Sales

To have success selling online you need a professional presence. Therefore, you should consider creating a portfolio website. Doing so allows you to share valuable content. Plus you can draw views by sharing that content on your social media channels. Be intentional about developing an effective content marketing strategy. This must include search engine optimization or SEO to drive traffic to your site. Learn about SEO practices online and go from there.

Processing Purchases

Mobile credit card readers make sales transactions quick and simple. Choose a service that suits you best and is reliable. You can accept payments through services such as PayPal or even Venmo. Just be sure that you're using a merchant account. Otherwise, you might lose your account.

Don't neglect those who choose to pay cash. Visit the bank ahead of time, and get plenty of change in varying denominations. Although you are an independent operator, tax matters still apply. Keep accurate records to avoid trouble with the IRS.

Selling your photos can be a source of joy that may be very profitable. Transforming this hobby into a business is easier than you might think. Give it a try and reap the rewards!

Guest Author Ryan Goodchild
"As a dog owner, Ryan loves hearing the inspiring and heartwarming stories of companionship. He started his site, pupperslove.com, to share some of those inspiring stories as well as educate others about the benefits and joys of being a dog owner."