08 Best Websites to Kickstart Your Freelance Photography Career
Hidden talents find no spotlight
Whether you’re capturing wedding moments, newborns, news events, or travel adventures, freelance photography can be a fulfilling career. Photographers enjoy a lot of freedom, in choosing their clients, work hours, projects, and locations.
In fact, many photographers work solely as freelancers and earn a good living because there are many ways to find freelance photography jobs.
But there’s a big learning curve to go from an amateur photographer taking photos for social media to a professional making a living with their photography.
Knowing what’s out there can help you stay informed and discover new opportunities whether you are an amateur or skilled photographer.
Photographers earn their income in three main ways:
- Stock Photography: Selling photos to websites that sell images.
- Freelance Jobs: Short-term projects or assignments.
- Contract Work: Long-term, steady projects with clients.
Focusing on one or two of these can help you avoid wasting time and stay more effective.
Once you gain some experience, choosing a specific niche or two is a smart move. Specializing helps you build expertise and become known as an expert in that area.
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Find out where to get freelance photography jobs with these top sites below 👇
08 Best Platforms for Freelance Photographers
For Selling Stock Images
01. Shutterstock
Shutterstock is another widely recognized platform for stock photography. Signing up is straightforward — simply create a free account if you’re over 18 years old.
Shutterstock offers a vast marketplace for photographers to showcase their work and earn money through image sales.
02. Depositphotos
Depositphotos is another excellent option for photographers interested in both stock photos and illustrations.
Similar to Shutterstock, you can sign up as a contributor and start uploading your content once approved.
It’s a valuable platform for reaching a broad audience seeking high-quality visuals for various purposes.
03. BigStock
Bigstock is a reputable platform for photographers looking to sell their images online. As a contributor, you can join by signing up and submitting your best photographs for review.
Once approved, you can start uploading your images to reach a wide audience of potential buyers.
Bigstockphoto offers competitive royalties for each download of your photos, making it a rewarding option for photographers aiming to monetize their work.
04. iStock Images
iStock Images (Getty Images), including iStock, stands as a powerhouse in the stock photography industry.
To become a contributor, you must apply by submitting three to six of your best photo samples. Once accepted (typically after review), you can start uploading your photos through their contributor app.
Each time someone purchases your photo, you earn a commission or royalty.
For Both Long and Short Term Work
05. Fiverr
Fiverr is a well-known freelance marketplace where anyone can sign up as a seller. As a photographer on Fiverr, you can list your gigs ranging typically between $5 and $25. Fiverr charges a 20% commission on each transaction, emphasizing the need to scale volume to generate significant earnings.
Despite the low starting prices, Fiverr offers a platform for photographers to showcase their skills and build a client base. Effective marketing and delivering high-quality services can lead to long-term success on the platform.
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06. Upwork
Upwork remains a leading global platform connecting millions of companies with freelancers, including photographers. It serves as a gateway for newcomers to gain valuable experience and establish their presence in the freelance market.
However, Upwork’s competitive nature often results in pricing pressures due to global competition.
Navigating Upwork requires strategic bidding and differentiation in services to stand out amidst the diverse pool of freelancers. The platform charges fees ranging from 5% to 20% per gig, impacting profitability and requiring efficient management of pricing strategies.
07. Freelancer
Freelancer is a versatile online platform that connects freelancers with clients seeking a wide range of services, including photography.
It’s utilized by a diverse global community of freelancers and businesses, offering opportunities for photographers to showcase their expertise and secure projects.
Photographers can create detailed profiles highlighting their skills and portfolio. The platform features a bidding system where freelancers compete for projects, emphasizing competitive pricing and quality service delivery.
Freelancer charges fees based on project milestones, providing freelancers with a transparent payment structure.
08. FlexJobs
Flexjobs distinguishes itself as an exclusive online job board specializing in remote and flexible positions across various industries. It’s renowned for its curated listings, ensuring high-quality opportunities for photographers.
With a focus on telecommuting roles, Flexjobs offers a streamlined experience free from spam and low-quality posts, maintaining higher pay rates compared to other job sites.
Accessing job listings on Flexjobs is subscription-based, priced at $15 per month or $30 for three months. This model ensures that applicants are serious about finding quality freelance and remote work opportunities tailored to their skill sets.
Sum it Up!
Now the article has come to an end, Now the article has come to an end. 📸 Explore these top websites to kickstart your freelance photography career and begin earning income from your passion.
Whether you’re selling stock photos, bidding on freelance gigs, or building your client base through specialized services, these platforms offer valuable opportunities for growth.
Take the first step towards success by joining these platforms today!
Happy shooting!
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