Product and business photographer

Online sellers, cafes, local businesses, agents and professionals who need images for websites and social media.

Per-shoot or per-image pricing, half-day rates, and licence fees for wider commercial use, with repeat work from regular clients.

• Lighting and styling
• Photo editing and retouching
• Understanding what a brand needs
• Invoicing and following up clients

• Public liability insurance, and cover for gear, especially if you shoot at client sites
• Be clear in writing about image licences and how clients can use the photos
• Check council approval for a home-based business, particularly if clients visit
• Register for an ABN and check when GST applies
• Get written permission to share client work in your portfolio

Startup costs are typically around $2,500 to $10,000, depending on the camera, lighting and editing gear you choose and whether you set up a home studio or shoot at client sites. These are estimates only.

Monthly revenue is typically around $800 to $5,000, depending on how many clients you book and the types of shoots you offer. The estimate assumes at least about 8 hours a week, and it is not a guarantee.

Check whether you need council approval for a home-based business, especially if clients visit. Also check public liability and gear insurance, ABN registration, when GST applies, and put image licences and portfolio permission in writing.