How to make money with your camera: earn cash with your photography

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Want to profit from your images? Fancy an extra stream of income? Whether it's portraits, events or even fine art that's your thing, here's what you need to know

How to buy the right camera and lenses

Professional-grade kit isn’t just about high megapixel counts: build quality is just as crucial. After all, the chances are you’ll be using this kit day in and day out, so it will need to stand up to the knocks and bumps of professional use. Let’s take a look at the various essentials that should feature in every professional’s kitbag.

Cameras 

Most professional photographers use DSLR bodies equipped with full-frame sensors, although full-frame mirrorless cameras are also fast becoming popular with enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Nikon D850

Nikon D850

These physically larger sensors tend to offer a higher megapixel count than their alternatives, so images contain more detail and can be used at larger sizes – essential if you’re looking to create poster-size prints.

Today’s full-frame sensor cameras offer up to 50MP. Most also offer dual memory card slots so you can instantly back up images or extend the amount of time before you have to switch media while out in the field. 

  • Recommended cameras: Canon EOS 5D Mark IV, Nikon D850, Sony A7 III

Lenses

When it comes to optics, professional photographers crave wide-aperture lenses. 

Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM

Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM

These not only enable faster shutter speeds – a godsend in low-light conditions – but the shallow depth of field these large-aperture lenses create opens the door to more creative options. A workhorse zoom lens like a 24-70mm f/2.8 is capable of covering most situations. 

Software 

Most professionals use the industry-standard Adobe programs, Photoshop and Lightroom, which together cover all your image management and post-processing needs.

The good news is that Adobe’s Creative Cloud service allows you to pay for these programs on a monthly basis, rather than compelling you to shell out a large payment up front. 

Of course, there are other alternatives from the likes of Skylum, Serif, DxO and Corel – it's really a matter of personal preference.

Lighting kits 

If you work in a studio, there are plenty of kits to choose from, including packages from Profoto, Elinchrom and Bowens. If you shoot on location, you could decide to use a portable kit. Again, Profoto and Elinchrom have this covered for you. 

Bags 

Once you’ve bought some pro kit, you’ll want a heavy-duty bag or case to protect your investment. Both Peli and Vanguard offer a range of virtually indestructible hard cases, while Lowepro and Think Tank offer rucksacks for demanding professional use. 

Read more: The best backpacks for photographers

Additional accessories

Along with filters and tripods, one of the most important items of kit is a back-up system. Your images are your currency, so they need to be protected. 

Read more: 37 of the best accessories for photographers right now

Digital Camera
Digital Camera

The sister print publication to this website, Digital Camera Magazine is Britain's best-selling photography publication – and it can also be purchased outside the United Kingdom as Digital Camera World. 

Digital Camera Magazine is packed with more expert advice and more inspirational images than any other title, with the sole aim of helping you become a better photographer. Every issue we also bring you a selection of great gifts which are designed to help you get more from your photography – everything from tips cards and cheat sheets to free software and bookazines. 

In addition to inspirational images, interviews, projects, mini tests and tutorials, each issue is packed with news, reviews and comparisons, as well as photographer vs photographer shootouts and head-to-head challenges using the best photo editing software.

The magazine is captained by Editor Niall Hampton.