In the ever-evolving world of photography, finding lucrative and sustainable income streams remains a paramount concern for professionals in the field. This excellent video features an experienced pro discussing four business traps photographers fall into and how to avoid them yourself.
Coming to you from Scott Choucino with Tin House Studio, this great video delves into various methods purported to aid photographers in making money, such as selling prints, stock photography, renting out equipment, merchandising, and assisting in digital work. Choucino shares personal experiences and insights, debunking common myths about these income streams. For instance, selling prints can be profitable, but it demands a business model centered around print sales, not just casual listings. Similarly, stock photography, often hailed as a passive income source, is criticized for its poor time-to-revenue ratio unless one specializes in this field exclusively.
Moreover, the discussion about renting out photography equipment brings to light the logistical and financial challenges involved, highlighting that significant profits are only likely for those who operate as full-fledged rental houses. Merchandising, while an appealing idea, is dismissed as a substantial income stream unless pursued with dedication and volume. The only method receiving unequivocal support from Choucino is working as an assistant or tech, praised for its straightforward earning potential without the need to alter one’s primary business focus.
Choucino emphasizes the importance of specialization and commitment in any chosen avenue. The allure of these methods as easy, supplemental income streams should be carefully scrutinized. He urges photographers to view their craft as a serious business requiring strategic planning and focused effort. This critical examination serves as an invaluable guide; check out the video above for the full rundown from Choucino.
